After bariatric surgery, most patients expect a fresh start toward a healthier life. But for some, emotional eating and food addiction still linger. This can be frustrating and even dangerous to long-term weight loss success. Let’s explore how to recognize, manage, and overcome food addiction after bariatric surgery.
Understanding Food Addiction Post-Surgery
Food addiction isn’t just about cravings—it’s a deep emotional and psychological relationship with food. In India, where food is central to celebrations, family gatherings, and daily routines, resisting old habits can be particularly challenging. After surgery, while your stomach size may change, your mind’s attachment to comfort foods might not. Recognizing this is the first step toward true transformation.
Why Food Addiction Can Return After Bariatric Surgery
Bariatric surgery helps reduce physical hunger, but emotional hunger may remain. Triggers such as stress, loneliness, and anxiety can prompt mindless eating—even if your stomach can’t physically hold much food. Foods rich in sugar, oil, and salt—common in Indian snacks and sweets—can also trigger dopamine responses that reinforce the addiction cycle.
Tips to Overcome Food Addiction After Surgery
- Build a structured eating plan: Stick to set meal times and focus on protein-rich, low-carb Indian options like dal, paneer, and grilled tikkas.
- Avoid triggers: Steer clear of high-calorie comfort foods and occasions where you tend to overeat.
- Practice mindful eating: Eat slowly, focus on flavors, and listen to your body’s cues.
- Find healthy substitutes: Swap fried snacks with roasted makhana or fruit chaat.
- Seek professional help: Counseling and support groups can provide long-term strategies and emotional support.
The Importance of Mental Health in Weight Loss Journey
Addressing food addiction is not just about willpower—it's about healing your relationship with food. Mental health support should be part of your post-surgery care. Therapy, guided support groups, and follow-ups with your bariatric team can make a significant difference in long-term success.
Get Expert Help at Asian Bariatrics
If you're struggling with food addiction after bariatric surgery, you're not alone. Dr. Mahendra Narwaria and the team at Asian Bariatrics Private Limited offer comprehensive post-surgery support, including nutrition counseling and psychological guidance tailored to your specific condition.
Dr. Mahendra Narwaria is a pioneer in laparoscopic bariatric surgery in India with over 25 years of experience and 10000 plus surgeries performed. His practice, Asian Bariatrics Private Limited located in Ahmedabad, is recognised as a bariatric surgery Centre of Excellence and his patients have access to all bariatric surgical procedures under his supervision.