Dietitians’ Conversation Group: Eating Disorders & Bariatric Surgery

Join our professional conversation group, dedicated to exploring the complex intersection of eating disorders and bariatric surgery. This supportive space brings together dietitians interested in navigating the nuanced challenges of supporting patients through their bariatric journey while addressing disordered eating behaviours.

Research shows that individuals seeking bariatric surgery represent a high-risk group for disordered eating, with some patients experiencing persistence or onset of problematic eating patterns post-surgery. Our group acknowledges that bariatric surgery dramatically alters the physiological capacity for eating, creating unique challenges that require specialised knowledge and approaches.

While we respect diverse perspectives, please note that our group takes a pragmatic clinical approach rather than strictly adhering to Health At Every Size (HAES) principles, which are commonly embraced in eating disorder therapies. We recognise that the HAES philosophy generally views bariatric interventions as incompatible with its core tenets of body acceptance and weight-neutral health promotion. Our focus is on supporting patients who have chosen surgical intervention while minimising harm and optimising wellbeing.