Psychology Behind Poor Eating Habits After Bariatric Surgery

We all know that our habits and behaviour can significantly affect how we feel. Still, many of us don't realize just how much power they have over our moods. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at some of the new research surrounding the psychology behind your habits and behaviour after bariatric surgery. From understanding why, it can take so long for weight loss to stabilize to examining the psychological effects of eating certain foods, this is an article you won't want to miss!

 

After bariatric surgery, many patients find their eating habits and behaviour change. Some of these changes are due to the physical effects of the surgery, while others are psychological.

 

Patients who have undergone bariatric surgery often find that they no longer feel as hungry as they did before. This is due to the smaller stomach size and reduced ability to absorb nutrients. As a result, patients subconsciously make an effort to eat more frequently or in larger quantities than before surgery.

 

 

Common Challenges While Adapting to New Eating Habits

 

Dr. Kapil Agrawal, one of the best weight loss surgeon in Delhi, India elaborates a few points which tend to hamper your new and healthy food eating habits.

 

·         Some patients find that they have trouble controlling their eating. They may overeat or eat too quickly, leading to weight gain or other health problems. This is often due to an emotional response to food, such as using food to cope with stress or boredom.

 

·         According to the habit-based learning theory, our habits and behaviours are learned through a process of conditioning. This theory suggests that we learn new habits and behaviours by observing the behaviour of others and then imitating it. This process is driven by a desire to fit in with a particular group or social norm. In other words, we learn new habits and behaviours to conform to the expectations of those around us.

 

·         The habit-based learning theory can help to explain why some people struggle to change their habits and behaviours after bariatric surgery. It is thought that these individuals may have developed their unhealthy eating habits and behaviours due to observing and imitating the behaviour of others around them. If this is the case, then it stands to reason that these individuals may find it difficult to change their habits unless they are exposed to healthy role models who can show them how to eat more healthfully.

 

·         It can be tough to stick to a healthy diet because of something called the "default bias." This refers to the fact that we tend to stick with the status quo, even when better options are available. So, if you're used to eating unhealthy foods, it can be hard to switch to healthier options because they seem like more work.

 

·         Another factor that makes it tough to change your diet is "loss aversion." This refers to our tendency to avoid losses (in this case, the loss of favourite foods) more than we seek out gains (the benefits of eating healthy). So, even if you know that eating healthier would be good for you in the long run, the thought of giving up your favourite foods can be enough to keep you from making the switch.

 

·         A strong emotional connection to unhealthy foods is another reason for poor dietary habits after bariatric surgery. We may turn to comfort foods when we're feeling down or celebrate with special meals when we're happy. This emotional attachment can make it challenging to give up certain foods, even if we know they're not good for us.

 

 

If you've recently undergone bariatric surgery, you are likely aware of the many changes that come with the procedure. One of the most important things to keep in mind is that your habits and behaviours can significantly impact your health and weight loss goals.

 

 Here are a few tips to stay on track:

 

1. Make sure to get enough sleep. Sleep is vital for overall health and can help regulate metabolism and hunger hormones. Good adequate sleep makes you feel less hungry.

 

2. Eat regular, nutritious meals. It's essential to fuel your body with healthy foods to help promote weight loss and prevent nutrient deficiencies. Eat smaller meals more often. It is also necessary to focus on high-protein, low-fat foods. You should avoid sugary and fatty foods, as well as carbonated beverages. Alcohol is also off-limits during this time.

 

 

3. Exercise regularly. Exercise helps with weight loss and improves mood, reduces stress, and increases energy levels.

 

4. Avoid trigger foods and situations. If certain foods or conditions trigger overeating or bingeing, do your best to avoid them. It is vital to listen to your body and eat when hungry. However, it is also important not to overeat, as this can lead to health complications. Paying attention to your diet after bariatric surgery is crucial for your physical and psychological health.

 

5. Seek support from others. Weight Loss Surgery can be a significant change, so it is essential to have a supportive network of family and friends to help you through the journey.

 

6. Seek the help of nutritionists or dieticians: It is always advisable to seek the help of nutritionists. They might provide you with new recipes to calm your cravings for unhealthy foods.

7. Always be in touch with your surgeons: It is always advisable to constantly be in touch with your surgeons and do regular follow-ups as advised. It keeps you motivated and provides constant willpower to maintain your weight loss journey on the right track. It is therefore advisable that you must try to get operated by the best bariatric surgeon who has a complete team to take care of post operative challenges.

 

About Dr Kapil Agrawal and Habilite Clinics:

 

Dr Kapil Agrawal, one of the best bariatric surgeon in Delhi, operates at the top-tier hospital network, provides a world-class experience through his state-of-the-art equipment.

 

He and his team ensure that you have a seamless, stress-free experience by offering a personalized patient care program that provides support before surgery, during the procedure and afterwards.

 

He offers a complete range of bariatric surgeries, including Sleeve Gastrectomy, Gastric Bypass, and Mini Gastric Bypass.

 

His team always believe in complete and close follow-ups of the patients to ensure successful, significant and permanent weight loss.

 

Our dieticians and psychologists always counsel the patients regularly so that their weight loss journey doesn't go off track. It keeps the patient motivated and ensures the patient doesn't fall back into poor eating habits and an unhealthy lifestyle.