If you’re struggling with obesity and seeking effective weight loss solutions, bariatric surgery may be a viable option. This procedure involves altering your digestive system to facilitate significant weight loss. Commonly performed types of bariatric surgery include Sleeve Gastrectomy and Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass. These procedures work by reducing the size of the stomach and rerouting a portion of the intestine, which helps limit food intake and modifies nutrient absorption. As a result, patients often experience reduced hunger and increased feelings of fullness. When combined with healthy eating and regular physical activity, bariatric surgery can significantly improve weight management, enhance quality of life, and promote a longer, healthier lifespan.

Bariatrics refers to the branch of medicine that deals with the study and treatment of obesity, such as weight loss surgery. The term bariatrics was coined around 1965, from the Greek root bar- ("weight" ), -iatr ("treatment” ), and -ic ("pertaining to").

Eligibility Criteria for Bariatric Surgery:

• BMI of 40 or higher: Individuals with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or above are generally eligible for bariatric surgery.

• BMI of 35 to 39.9 with serious health conditions: If your BMI falls between 35 and 39.9 and you have a significant weight-related health issue, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or severe sleep apnea, you may qualify for surgery.

• BMI of 30 to 34 with severe health issues: In some cases, individuals with a BMI between 30 and 34 may also be considered for weight-loss surgery if they have serious weight-related health problems.

Binge-Eating Disorder (BED) is a serious eating disorder characterized by the frequent consumption of excessive amounts of food, often leading to a sense of being unable to stop. Recognized in the DSM-5 by the American Psychiatric Association since May 2013, BED is classified alongside anorexia and bulimia, reflecting its severity.

While occasional overeating, such as during a holiday meal, is common, frequent episodes of uncontrollable overeating may indicate BED. Individuals with BED often experience feelings of shame, guilt, or embarrassment about their eating habits and may repeatedly vow to stop, yet find themselves unable to resist the compulsion to binge.

The key diagnostic criteria for BED include:

1. Recurrent and persistent episodes of binge eating.

2. Three (or more) of the following behaviors during binge episodes:

   • Eating much faster than usual.

   • Consuming large quantities of food until feeling uncomfortably full.

   • Eating large amounts of food without physical hunger.

   • Eating alone due to embarrassment about the amount of food consumed.

   • Feeling disgusted with oneself, depressed, or guilty after overeating.

3. Marked distress related to binge eating.

4. Absence of regular compensatory behaviors, such as purging.

If you are struggling with binge-eating disorder, know that you are not alone and help is available. Support and treatment options can assist you in managing and overcoming this condition.

Certified Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) vs. Nutritionist: Understanding the Difference

It's crucial to distinguish between a certified Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) and a "nutritionist," as their qualifications and roles differ significantly. While RDNs are trained to address clinical conditions and provide evidence-based dietary guidance, the term "nutritionist" may not always imply formal certification or standardized training, potentially affecting the scope of their practice and insurance coverage.

Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) are highly qualified professionals with rigorous credentials. The pathway to becoming an RDN includes:

• Educational Requirements: Completing a bachelor’s or advanced degree in dietetics, nutrition, or a related field from a regionally accredited university or college.

• Accreditation: Ensuring coursework is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) or approved by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

• Supervised Practice: Completing 1,200 hours of supervised practice through an ACEND-accredited program.

• National Examination: Passing a comprehensive national examination administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration.

• Continuing Education: Meeting ongoing professional education requirements to maintain certification and stay current with the latest research and practices.

Due to their extensive education and training, RDNs are the preferred professionals in clinical settings, including hospitals, where they are often the only nutrition experts hired. This ensures a high standard of care and adherence to established dietary guidelines.

For the most reliable and comprehensive nutrition services, it is advisable to seek guidance from a certified RDN.

I am here to support you at any stage of your journey, whether you are considering bariatric surgery, preparing for it and feeling anxious, or dealing with weight regain post-surgery. Remember, you are not alone in this process. The journey can indeed be challenging, but you don’t have to face it by yourself.

My approach is distinct and rooted in a non-diet philosophy. Traditional diets often fail, with research indicating a 90-95% failure rate, leading to feelings of shame and guilt. Instead, we will explore your eating history and work collaboratively to break the cycle of dieting and binge eating. Our focus will be on developing sustainable behaviors and transforming your relationship with food through mindful and intuitive eating practices. My goal is to empower you with the tools to rediscover the joy of eating and cultivate a lasting, positive connection with food.

Yes, I offer virtual consultations for all of my clients using a HIPAA-compliant video platform. This secure and user-friendly technology ensures that you receive high-quality support conveniently from the comfort of your home or office.

Our practice is out-of-network with insurance providers, and payment is due at the time of your appointment. If you have out-of-network benefits, you may be eligible for partial or full reimbursement.

You will receive a receipt to submit to your insurance company, which may apply towards your deductible or result in reimbursement, depending on your plan. Many clients with out-of-network benefits have successfully received reimbursement or applied costs towards their deductible.

For details on your coverage, please contact your insurance company directly. They can provide information on potential reimbursement or deductible application. If you need guidance on what to ask, please reach out to me, and I will provide you with specific instructions.