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

While bariatric surgery offers an effective solution for combating obesity, it requires careful management of certain habits during the postoperative period. One critical area to focus on is alcohol consumption. Here’s why:

1. Rapid Absorption

Post-bariatric surgery, alcohol is absorbed more quickly by the stomach, leading to faster increases in blood alcohol levels and quicker intoxication. This rapid absorption can result in uncontrolled behavior, accidents, and various health issues. The smaller and more sensitive stomach structure intensifies the effects of alcohol.

2. Lower Tolerance

After surgery, your body may have a reduced tolerance for alcohol. Amounts that were previously manageable can now have more pronounced effects, potentially causing unexpected problems in social situations and daily activities. Additionally, lower tolerance increases the risk of alcohol poisoning.

3. Gastrointestinal Health

Alcohol can irritate the delicate tissues of the stomach and intestines, leading to digestive issues and stomach pain in the postoperative period. Conditions such as ulcers, gastritis, and reflux can worsen with alcohol consumption, and the function of the intestines can be disrupted, affecting nutrient absorption.

4. Impact on Weight Loss

Alcohol is a high-calorie beverage that can hinder the weight loss process. Consuming alcohol can significantly increase your daily calorie intake without you realizing it, undermining your weight loss efforts. Moreover, alcohol can increase hunger and lead to unhealthy eating habits, making it harder to achieve your postoperative goals.

5. Psychological and Addiction Risks

Some individuals may face an increased risk of alcohol addiction in the postoperative period. Alcohol use might increase as a way to cope with psychological and emotional challenges, leading to new dependencies. Using alcohol to manage emotional eating habits can result in unwanted addiction. This process can be difficult to manage without psychological support.

Tips for Managing Alcohol Use

Avoid Alcohol

If possible, completely avoid alcohol in the postoperative period. This is the most effective way to protect your health and support the weight loss process. Opt for healthy beverages like water, herbal teas, and fresh fruit juices instead of alcohol.

Educate and Raise Awareness

Be well-informed about the risks associated with bariatric surgery and the effects of alcohol. This knowledge helps you understand the potential harms of alcohol use and make informed decisions. Attend educational programs, consult with your doctor, and seek information from reliable sources.

Seek Support

Turn to family, friends, or support groups for help. Psychological support is crucial in reducing the risk of addiction. Having a support system makes it easier to cope with challenges in the postoperative period. Support groups provide morale and motivation through shared experiences.

Find Healthy Alternatives

Choose non-alcoholic and healthy beverage options. This allows you to enjoy social settings while protecting your health. Alternatives like non-alcoholic cocktails, fresh fruit juices, and herbal teas can help you feel comfortable in social situations.

Conclusion

Bariatric surgery is a significant step towards a healthier lifestyle. Making healthy choices is essential for the success of this journey. By avoiding the potential harms of alcohol use, you can maintain the benefits of surgery and enjoy a healthier, happier life. Remember, healthy lifestyle choices are vital for both physical and mental well-being!

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.