Binge Eating and Bariatric Surgery: Understanding the Link and How to Overcome It

Blog By: Mind, Mouth and Movement: Connecting the Missing Links

By Nancy Lum, RDN and Dawn O’Meally LCSW-C, P.A.

Binge eating is a common struggle for many people seeking bariatric surgery, and it’s a behavior that often continues even after surgery. Understanding the relationship between binge eating and bariatric surgery is key to achieving long-term success on the journey to better health.

What is Binge Eating?

Binge eating is characterized by consuming large amounts of food in a short period of time, often accompanied by feelings of loss of control and guilt. It’s an emotional and behavioral issue tied to stress, anxiety, depression, or a history of dieting. While anyone can struggle with binge eating, it’s particularly prevalent among individuals with obesity.

How Does Binge Eating Affect Bariatric Surgery?

Bariatric surgery can be life-changing for individuals struggling with obesity. It reduces the size of the stomach, limits food intake, and alters digestion. However, the surgery does not address the underlying emotional and psychological factors that contribute to binge eating.

If binge eating persists after surgery, it can lead to…

• Stretching of the Stomach Pouch: Constant overeating can stretch the stomach, reversing the effects of the surgery.
• Nutritional Deficiencies: Binge eating on unhealthy, high-calorie foods can prevent patients from getting the nutrients they need.
• Weight Regain: Patients may start to regain weight if they don’t address their binge eating behavior.
• Emotional Distress: The feelings of guilt and shame often associated with binge eating can negatively affect mental health and hinder progress.

Recognizing the Signs of Binge Eating After Surgery

It’s important to recognize the signs of binge eating even after bariatric surgery. These include:

• Eating large amounts of food quickly, even when not hungry.
• Feeling out of control during a binge.
• Eating in secret or hiding food.
• Feeling shame or guilt after eating.
• Frequent thoughts about food.
• Managing Binge Eating Before and After Bariatric Surgery

Pre-Surgery Assessment and Therapy: Before undergoing bariatric surgery, it’s critical to have a psychological assessment. Many bariatric surgery centers require patients to engage in therapy to address any disordered eating behaviors. This can help individuals gain insight into their binge eating and develop strategies to manage it.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a proven method for treating binge eating by addressing the thoughts and emotions that drive the behavior. Patients learn to reframe their thinking and develop healthier coping mechanisms. As a practitioner, I’ve personally seen the benefits of CBT in helping patients overcome disordered eating habits.

TEAM-CBT for a Deeper Approach: A more specialized form of CBT, TEAM-CBT, can also be incredibly beneficial. This model integrates various therapeutic approaches to uncover the root causes of binge eating, while empowering patients to make lasting changes.

Post-Surgery Support: Continuous support after bariatric surgery is crucial. Many patients benefit from participating in support groups, working with therapists, and engaging in regular follow-up care with their bariatric team. This support helps patients stay accountable and process any emotional challenges.

Mindful Eating Practices: Mindful eating can be a powerful tool to prevent binge eating. It encourages patients to slow down, savor each bite, and tune into their body’s hunger and fullness cues.

Conclusion

Binge eating is a complex issue that doesn’t disappear with bariatric surgery. Addressing it head-on with therapy, support, and a long-term strategy is essential for lasting success. By combining the physical benefits of surgery with emotional and behavioral changes, patients can achieve not only weight loss but also improved mental health and a more positive relationship with food.

If you or someone you know is struggling with binge eating, reach out to a healthcare professional or therapist to discuss the best treatment options. Bariatric surgery can be a powerful tool in the journey toward better health, but it’s not the only piece of the puzzle—emotional well-being is just as important.