Symptoms of maladaptive eating after bariatric surgery

During my webinar, The Mindful Eating Cycle for Bariatric Surgery, I shared a list of possible symptoms of maladaptive eating after bariatric surgery.* (You can watch the free replay here.) Below, I’ve posted that list of symptoms again. (*Bariatric surgery is also referred to as weight loss surgery, WLS, or metabolic surgery.)

The term “maladaptive” isn’t a judgment. It is simply used to describe types of behaviors that inhibit your ability to adjust to situations, in this case, difficulty adjusting to your “new normal” following bariatric surgery.

As you look through this list, which of these problems or habits can you relate to?

And maybe (probably) you wouldn’t use the words I used below, but you’ve had your own experiences.

For example:

• Do you find yourself craving foods you’ve been told you “shouldn’t eat”?
• If you eat them, do you find it difficult to stop?
• Do you find yourself grazing frequently, but not feeling satisfied and wanting more food?
• Are you having trouble with emotional eating?
• Or, figuring out what to do about your triggers and emotions if you aren’t able to eat to deal with them?

Take a look at the list then please share your specific examples in the comments below.

Symptoms of maladaptive eating after bariatric surgery

• Eating too quickly, taking large bites, or not chewing thoroughly
• Eating mindlessly while distracted, leading to over-consumption
• Not savoring food and therefore having difficulty feeling satisfied with small volumes of food
• Eating too much, leading to discomfort, vomiting, and/or distention of the pouch
• Grazing throughout the day and/or eating “slider” foods and high-calorie soft foods and liquids
• Struggling with emotional eating
• Not consuming enough protein or nutrient-rich foods
• Feeling guilty, deprived, or left-out in social situations
• Struggling to establish consistent, joyful physical activity
• Difficulty adjusting to life after bariatric surgery

You are not alone!

If you need help resolving issues with your eating after bariatric surgery, check out these options!