Dear colleagues and stakeholders interested in this field,

Every year, bariatric/obesity surgery in Turkey places approximately 40,000 individuals into an intensive process of transformation, during which they re-examine their relationship with food, their body image, and their sense of identity. Although the critical role of psychology in this process is often emphasized, the number of trained specialists and the accumulation of scientific knowledge in this area remain limited.

In a small number of countries where psychologists have a voice in health policy, surgical interventions are carried out in parallel with psychosocial support processes. However, in Turkey and many other countries, individuals frequently undergo surgery with limited knowledge and awareness, often making hasty decisions.

In the postoperative period—sometimes referred to as “surgically induced anorexia”—different and relatively unfamiliar patterns of disordered eating emerge. Because binge eating is physically impossible for a long period (at least 1.5 years), we encounter conditions such as anxiety over loss of control in eating, atypical anorexia, subjective binge episodes, grazing behavior, food puréeing, and chew-and-spit practices.

This issue is not limited to clinical psychology but is highly relevant to all subfields of psychology, including social, developmental, and health psychology. Rising rates of marriage and divorce after surgery, shifts in family dynamics, the phenomenon of “bariatric families” undergoing surgery together, and the developmental consequences of adolescent surgeries all underscore the necessity of an integrated and multidisciplinary approach across psychology.

In this context, within the scope of our TÜBİTAK 1001–funded project, the Bariatric Psychology Research Laboratory (BP Lab) at Ankara Social Sciences University (ASBÜ) is launching a seminar series that will address these issues from clinical, social, and developmental perspectives.

Our seminar is open to professionals from all disciplines who are either working in this field or have an interest in it.

We warmly invite all interested participants.

Participation Information

 The language of the event is English, and no simultaneous translation will be provided.
 Participation is limited. To pre-register, please use the QR code on the side or the following link:
 https://forms.gle/3XZjfE7kDb3yJqdr6

To stay informed about upcoming events:
 LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/BariatricPsychology
 Instagram: @bariatrikpsikolojilab

What is the Obesogenic Environment?

The obesogenic environment encompasses the environmental factors that contribute to weight gain and obesity. These factors—spanning physical, social, and economic domains—can hinder healthy lifestyle choices. For those aiming to maintain a healthy lifestyle after bariatric surgery, understanding this concept is crucial. While the obesogenic environment can challenge your health goals, being aware of it can empower you to make positive changes.

Fast Food Culture

The widespread availability of fast food, which is high in calories and low in nutrients, fosters unhealthy eating habits. Post-bariatric surgery, it is essential to avoid these foods and opt for nutritious alternatives to manage your weight effectively.

Sedentary Lifestyle

Advancements in technology have led to a more sedentary lifestyle by reducing the need for physical activity. Incorporating regular exercise into your routine after surgery is crucial for sustaining weight loss and improving overall health. Even short, daily walks can significantly impact your well-being.

Urban Planning

The absence of walking paths, parks, and sports facilities can discourage physical activity. After surgery, finding accessible areas for exercise can help you maintain an active lifestyle. Investment in community infrastructure that supports physical activity can enhance public health.

Marketing Strategies

Persistent advertising of unhealthy foods can negatively influence eating habits, especially among children. Developing mindful consumption habits can help you resist these influences. Reading labels and making informed choices are vital components of a healthy lifestyle.

How to Combat the Obesogenic Environment?

Healthy Eating Habits

Post-bariatric surgery, focusing on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is essential for long-term success. Plan your meals with these nutritious options to support sustained weight loss.

Increase Physical Activity

Embrace an active lifestyle by incorporating regular exercise. This not only helps in maintaining weight loss but also enhances overall health. Regular physical activity boosts energy levels and promotes well-being.

Conscious Consumption

When shopping, choose healthy products and carefully read labels. This practice supports the development of healthy eating habits. Prioritize organic and unprocessed foods to maximize nutritional benefits.

Community and Policy Support

Reducing the obesogenic environment requires supportive policies and urban planning that promote healthy living. Community support plays a crucial role in sustaining a healthy lifestyle. Collective and individual efforts are necessary to drive meaningful change.

Conclusion

Adopting a healthy lifestyle after bariatric surgery is vital for both physical and mental well-being. Awareness of obesogenic factors allows you to address them effectively and maintain the benefits of surgery. Through healthy eating, regular exercise, and conscious consumption, you can achieve a healthier and happier life. Remember, investing in a healthy lifestyle is the best gift you can give to your body and mind.

The Purpose of Bariatric Surgery Bariatric surgery is a highly effective approach to reducing obesity-related health risks and promoting a healthier lifestyle. The primary aim of this procedure is to alleviate health issues caused by obesity and help patients achieve and maintain a sustainable, long-term weight. Significant improvements in conditions such as type II diabetes and high blood pressure are often observed when patients lose about half of their excess weight. However, these medical goals may not always match patients’ personal expectations.

Balancing Medical Goals and Personal Expectations Many patients hope that bariatric surgery will not only achieve medical objectives but also result in greater weight loss. These personal aspirations can sometimes lead to feelings of disappointment and a sense of failure, even when the surgery is medically successful. This disconnect can create psychological and emotional challenges throughout the weight loss journey.

The Importance of Healthy and Sustainable Weight Loss Every pound lost is vital for improving health, but adopting healthy and sustainable practices during the weight loss process is crucial for long-term success. Personalized diet and exercise plans are key components of this success. Therefore, setting realistic goals and following healthy methods to achieve them are essential for sustainable progress.

Considering Individual Differences Each person has unique physical needs and living conditions, so the weight loss process and the amount of weight lost will vary from individual to individual. Some people may lose weight quickly, while others may experience a slower rate of loss. These differences are influenced by factors such as body structure, metabolism, lifestyle, and overall health. Thus, it is important to develop and stick to personalized plans during the weight loss journey.

Achieving Success with Realistic Goals Embarking on your weight loss journey with realistic goals will help you move forward with confidence and joy. Setting achievable goals ensures that both medical and personal expectations are met. Accomplishing these goals will make you feel healthier both physically and emotionally. Establishing small, attainable objectives along the way will keep you motivated and facilitate long-term success.

Conclusion Bariatric surgery is an effective strategy for combating obesity. However, aligning medical goals with personal objectives is crucial for achieving long-term success and satisfaction. By taking healthy, sustainable steps and setting realistic goals from the outset, you can progress towards a healthier life, both physically and emotionally.