Bariatric Surgery | Gastric Bypass Surgery | Gastric Banding | Obesity | After Surgery

Folks who have undergone bariatric surgery may feel certain emptiness specifically in terms of their relationship with food. Prior to the gastric surgery, food may have been a very important aspect in their lives. They may have put food so high on a pedestal, that they literally spent several hours daily planning their meals, and thinking about gastronomic delights. For many formerly obese people, food as a central addiction, and it had been very consuming, physiologically and psychologically. It may have been a security blanket, a comforting device, a hobby or interest, a stress reliever, a reward to hard work done, a means for socializing and getting along with colleagues and family.

Bariatric surgery, specifically gastric bypass, is done by limiting the stomach’s capacity to take in food, so anything the person eats in excess simply goes back up and gets vomited. In short, gastric bypass allows a person to feel fuller after having consumed very little food.

After the surgery, some people may feel disconnected from food, and regret of having the procedure may also occur. Self-pity is another emotional complication, especially when one sees he or she can no longer engage in large portions of favorite foods, or go to parties where food is flowing.

As a result, they may find substitutes for their addiction to food, and may fall prey to dangerous substances such as nicotine, alcohol, illegal drugs, and even activities such as sex or gambling. This is called addiction swapping, and it is not a good way to cope.

One may not readily admit that he or she is forming an unsafe addiction however it will help greatly if the matter is discussed with a psychologist or the bariatric physician. These professionals can help the individual form better and healthier diversions. They do not even have to be time-consuming or expensive. It all lies in the proper mindset which begins even before the surgery is performed.