DFW Bariatrics and General Surgery, Dr. Sachin Kukreja’s practice, posted this video on its YouTube channel on May 11, 2025.
From the video’s description on YouTube
Let’s talk about transfer addiction, a common struggle for bariatric patients after surgery.
What is it?
When you have an addiction to something and are no longer able to have access to that thing, you can sometimes “transfer” that addictive behavior pattern to a different vice. Once bariatric surgery patients can no longer use food as an addiction, they sometimes turn to drugs, alcohol, or other addictive patterns.How do you know if you have a food addiction?
One of the key signs of food addiction is a loss of control with eating. If you feel like you want to stop but can’t; you eat to the point of feeling sick; or, you feel ashamed or guilty about your eating, you may be suffering from food addiction. Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), abuse, trauma, family history, and genetics can increase your risk of addiction. The only way to truly know is to get assessed by a mental health professional.Can you prevent transference?
Yes. If you’re planning to get surgery and fear you have an unhealthy relationship with food, different forms of therapy and mental health treatments can help you manage your condition.Can transfer addiction be treated?
If you’ve already had surgery and think you might have transferred an addiction to another vice, there is still hope! If you know you need help – I am proud of you. Seek support through individual and group therapy, as well as any other mental health resources at your disposal.Remember that you’re not alone in this – there’s a whole community out here cheering you on.
More videos from the practice are on Dr. Sachin Kukreja’s profile.
