Phoenix Chapter: Learning Summit
12 June @ 7:45 am – 12:00 pm EDT
Eating disorders are deadly diseases that impact psychosocial functioning and quality of life. Unfortunately, eating disorders are prevalent in many seeking treatment to lose weight. One study indicated that as many as 49 percent of patients seeking bariatric surgery have binge eating disorder. Binge eating disorder impacts up to 2.8 million people in the United States. If the eating disorder is left untreated prior to surgery, then the symptoms are likely to persist post-surgery. Patients who receive treatment for eating disorders are much more likely to improve and significantly less likely to die from the disease, and therefore, recognizing these diseases and treating them appropriately will not only improve quality of life for these patients but could also save lives. It is important that clinicians in the field of eating disorders are knowledgeable in the basics of bariatric surgery, in addition to how to support clients post-bariatric surgery. This support will include nutrition considerations, meal planning, nutrition education, and body image, including body compassion.
