Talk with Tara, MFT

ADDICTION TRANSFER

Food addiction is often a topic of debate, but is viewed by many scientists as a disorder as real as a drug or alcohol addiction. Like other addictions, food addiction can be triggered by depression, an individual’s desire to fill some type of emotional void, or the need to have control over his or her life.  A new wave of research also suggests that there are also biochemical causes of compulsive eating.

If someone suffers from a food addition and undergoes bariatric surgery, the addictive behavior can remain if the underlying issues that led to the original addiction are not addressed.  However, in some cases, the addiction can manifest itself in another form such as:

·         Alcoholism
·         Compulsive shopping
·         Drug dependency
·         Excessive gambling
·         Increased or uncharacteristic promiscuity

Swapping one compulsive or addictive act (such as overeating) with another is known as addiction transfer. Conservative estimates state that 5 percent of bariatric surgery patients experience an addiction transfer, replacing their dependence on food with another compulsive behavior.

Many times, patients who experience addition transfer don’t realize it at first. What might have started as a “reward" for losing weight, or just a new pastime, can turn into a habit for people who have not addressed the underlying problems that triggered their original food addiction. It is important to stress that bariatric surgery does NOT cause addiction. 

If you feel that you are struggling with an untreated food addiction or have transferred your addiction to another substance or behavior, don’t wait to seek help. Gain the support of a psychologist, addiction specialist, or a support group. Some addiction support groups include:

·         Food Addicts Anonymous (F.A.A.)
·         Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous (F.A.)
·         Overeaters Anonymous (O.A.)
·         Alcoholics Anonymous (A.A.)
·         Debtors Anonymous (D.A.)
·         Gamblers Anonymous (G.A.)
·         Narcotics Anonymous (N.A.)
·         Sex Addicts Anonymous (S.A.A.)


Tara Griffith, MA, MFT
WLS Support Services
Laparoscopic Associates of San Francisco

*DISCLAIMER* The information provided within this forum is intended for GENERAL EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY.  Answers, comments, and opinions provided are not intended to substitute for informed professional medical, psychiatric, psychological, or other professional advice.  As this is an open forum on the Internet, your questions and answers will be seen by others. It is possible that an unqualified individual may post a reply to questions. Always seek the advice of your personal physician or other qualified health provider for any questions you may have regarding any specific medical condition or mental health issue.   Information provided in this forum DOES NOT constitute a therapist-patient relationship between you and Tara Griffith, MFT.