Associations between binge eating, depressive symptoms and anxiety and weight regain after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery

Mindfulness and compassion-based programs on eating behavior of post-bariatric surgery patients: A two phased clinical trial protocol

INTRODUCTION

Weight regain after bariatric surgery remains a relevant and worrisome topic, requiring greater understanding and involvement in research into new adjuvant treatments. This study aims to compare the preliminary effectiveness and feasibility of the Mindfulness-Based Health Promotion and Attachment-Based Compassion Therapy programs as opposed to usual treatments (workshops) on the eating behavior of patients with progressive weight gain after bariatric surgery in Brazilian patients at a private clinic. It was hypothesized that both interventions are feasible and that the self-compassion program may be more effective than the mindfulness program.

METHODS

The study will be divided into two phases: a cross-analytical study of those who underwent bariatric surgery and a randomized controlled trial only with the ones who had weight regain. Interventions will be conducted for eight weeks synchronously with three assessment points (baseline, post intervention, and 6-month follow-up), both online. The primary outcome will be a change in eating behavior. Secondary outcomes will include improved quality of life, enhanced body image satisfaction and reduced distortion (Brazilian Silhouette Scales for adults), better weight management (maintenance or weight reduction), increased frequency of activity and monitoring with the surgery team. Qualitative data will also be collected by online identification of a sub-sample of participants.

RESULTS

Improvements are expected in eating behavior, weight, reverse progressive weight gain, classification of self-image, quality of life, and levels of mindfulness, self-compassion, and anxiety.

CONCLUSION

This study seeks to gather preliminary evidence on the effectiveness of mindfulness and compassion training for the adjunctive treatment of progressive weight gain in post-bariatric patients. Clinical Trials.gov Registration ID: NCT04171713.

Cardiometabolic risk factors of post-bariatric patients two years after COVID-19 pandemic onset: a longitudinal study

The COVID-19 pandemic's prolonged extension may have had a long-term negative impact on weight and metabolic parameters associated with the effectiveness of bariatric surgery. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on cardiometabolic risk markers and weight outcomes of post-bariatric patients. This is a longitudinal study carried out with patients who underwent bariatric surgery before the COVID-19 pandemic. Anthropometric, lipid, glycemic profile, blood pressure, eating behavior and physical activity parameters obtained through face-to-face consultations from 2019 to 2022 were evaluated. An increase in BMI (p = 0.001), percentage of weight gain (p < 0.001), postoperative weight regain rate (p = 0.002), fasting blood glucose (p < 0.001), and glycosylated hemoglobin (p < 0.001) was identified. There were reductions in the percentages of excess weight loss (p = 0.001) and physically active individuals (p = 0.016). These changes were only triggered after the pandemic years. Uncontrolled eating, emotional eating, and physical inactivity were identified as risk factors for weight gain during the pandemic. Prepandemic weight regain rate was risk factor for increased fasting blood glucose. Two years after the pandemic onset, the study participants exhibited increased rates of weight regain, reduced excess weight loss, and an increase in fasting blood glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin parameters.

A Systematic Review Exploring Dietary Behaviors, Psychological Determinants and Lifestyle Factors Associated with Weight Regain After Bariatric Surgery

BACKGROUND

Weight regains after bariatric surgery presents a significant challenge to long-term weight management and overall health outcomes. While clinical and surgical factors influencing bariatric outcomes have been extensively reviewed, there remains a notable gap in understanding how behavioral factors-specifically dietary habits, psychological influences, and lifestyle choices-impact long-term weight maintenance. This systematic review addresses this gap, highlighting the unique role of these behavioral factors in sustaining weight loss post-bariatric surgery.

AIM

This systematic review aims to explore the behavioral factors-including dietary, psychological, and lifestyle influences-associated with weight regain after bariatric surgery.

METHODS

A comprehensive search was conducted across multiple databases, focusing on peer-reviewed articles published in English. We included observational studies exclusively focused on adults who experienced weight regain after bariatric surgery, with an emphasis on behavioral factors. Searches were conducted in MEDLINE via PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar, with the last search completed on 10 July 2024. Studies published within the past 10 years were considered. The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal tool for cross-sectional studies was used to assess the risk of bias. A total of 16 studies met the inclusion criteria: 12 cross-sectional studies, 3 cohort studies, and 1 in-depth interview study.

RESULTS

The review found inconsistencies in the definitions of weight regain across studies. Nonetheless, three primary behavioral factors were identified as potentially contributing to weight regain: dietary non-adherence and eating patterns, psychological determinants, and lifestyle behaviors. Dietary non-adherence included high-calorie food consumption, excessive intake of sweets, carbohydrates, and sweetened beverages, and low protein intake. Psychological factors such as depression, anxiety, emotional eating, and binge eating were prevalent among individuals experiencing weight regain. Lifestyle behaviors, including physical inactivity, smoking, and sedentary habits, also played significant roles.

CONCLUSIONS

Post-bariatric weight management is multifaceted, necessitating a comprehensive approach that addresses dietary, psychological, and lifestyle factors. Most studies on behavioral factors linked to weight regain were cross-sectional with small sample sizes, limiting the ability to infer causality. Future research should include detailed information on dietary adherence, standardized tools to assess physical activity and sedentary behavior, and validated measures for psychological health. Tailored interventions and continuous support from healthcare professionals are essential for maximizing the effectiveness of bariatric surgery, promoting sustainable weight loss, and enhancing overall health outcomes.

Mental health and weight regain after bariatric surgery: associations between weight regain and psychiatric and eating-related comorbidities

Objective

Weight regain is a common outcome of weight loss interventions. Mental health-related comorbidities, among other factors, can mediate weight regain regardless of the implemented treatment modality. This study explores whether postoperative psychopathological comorbidities are associated with weight regain after bariatric surgery.

Subjects and methods

This cross-sectional study recruited 90 outpatients who underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery. Anthropometric measurements were collected retrospectively from medical charts. The Structured Clinical Interview for Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorder-IV (DSM-IV) Axis I Disorders (SCID-I) was applied to evaluate psychiatry diagnoses. Validated self-report instruments were used to assess depression, anxiety, alcohol use, impulsivity, binge eating, and body image dissatisfaction. Weight regain was defined as a ≥20% increase from the maximum weight lost. Level of evidence: Level III, cross-sectional study based on a well-designed study.

Results

Overall, 55.6% of participants experienced weight regain. Notably, mental disorders such as current binge-eating disorder and lifetime diagnoses including bulimia nervosa, alcohol abuse/dependence, and obsessive-compulsive disorder were significantly associated with weight regain. However, controlled analysis found that, for mental disorders, only current binge-eating disorder (odds ratio [OR] 6.3, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.26-31.06, p = 0.024) remained associated with weight regain. Eating-related psychopathologies also associated with weight regain included binge eating (d = 0.55; p = 0.013), eating disinhibition (d = 0.76; p = 0.001), higher hunger levels (d = 0.39; p = 0.004), and non-planning trait impulsivity (d = 0.69; p = 0.0001).

Conclusion

Postoperative presence of psychopathological comorbidities, such as eating psychopathology and trait impulsivity, were associated with weight regain after bariatric surgery. These findings highlight the importance of addressing mental health in individuals experiencing postsurgical weight regain.

COVID-19-Related Increases in Depressive and Anxious Symptoms Are Associated with Maladaptive Eating Among Patients up to 4 years Post-bariatric Surgery

INTRODUCTION

Depressive and anxious symptoms and maladaptive eating behaviors fluctuate with stressful events for patients seeking bariatric surgery. These associations are less clear for patients postoperatively. Using the COVID-19 pandemic as a frame, we examined associations between changes in depressive and anxious symptoms and maladaptive eating behaviors between up to four years postoperatively.

METHODS

Participants (N = 703) who underwent surgery between 2018 and 2021 completed web-based questionnaires between 2021 and 2022. Demographic and surgical data were obtained from electronic health records. Participants reported whether depressive and anxious symptoms increased or were stable/decreased during the COVID-19 pandemic, and completed eating behavior measures.

RESULTS

Many participants reported increased depressive (27.5%) and anxious (33.7%) symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic. Compared to those who reported stable or decreased symptoms, these participants were as follows: (1) more likely to endorse presence of binge, loss-of-control, graze, and night eating; (2) reported higher emotional eating in response to anger and frustration, depression, and anxiety; and (3) reported higher driven and compulsive eating behaviors. Frequency of binge, loss-of-control, graze, and night eating episodes did not differ between groups (e.g., increased vs. stable/decreased anxious symptoms) among participants who endorsed any episodes.

CONCLUSION

A large portion of the sample reported increased depressive and anxious symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic, and these increases were associated with maladaptive eating behaviors. Depressive and anxious symptoms and eating behaviors should be assessed postoperatively as significant stressors may be associated with increased distress and maladaptive eating behaviors that can affect postoperative outcomes. Postoperative interventions may be useful at simultaneously targeting these concerns.

Post-surgical psychiatric symptoms, maladaptive eating patterns, and lifestyle behaviors associated with weight recurrence after bariatric surgery

BACKGROUND

A significant proportion of patients who undergo bariatric surgery experience weight recurrence; however, the most important areas to target to prevent weight recurrence remain unknown.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose was to examine whether psychiatric symptoms, maladaptive eating behaviors, and lifestyle factors were associated with weight recurrence.

SETTING

Single healthcare system.

METHODS

Individuals who underwent bariatric surgery were invited to complete a web-based survey in which they reported their current weight and completed measures of psychiatric symptoms, maladaptive eating behaviors, and lifestyle behaviors. Participants were included if they were at least 2 years postsurgery. Weight recurrence was measured from the 1-year follow-up to the survey date.

RESULTS

Participants (n = 169) were predominantly female and White or Black, with a mean age of 45 years. The rate of significant weight recurrence was 23.1%. Those who underwent sleeve gastrectomy were more likely to experience weight recurrence (odds ratio [OR] = 12.99; P = .01). In bivariate analyses, anxiety and depressive symptoms, emotional eating, loss of control eating, binge eating, and night eating were associated with weight recurrence (P < .05). Those who did not eat mindfully, take 20 minutes to eat, or get adequate sleep were also more likely to have weight recurrence (P < .05). In a multivariate model, only a lack of mindful eating (OR = 4.84; P = .03) and inadequate sleep (OR = 7.30; P = .02) remained statistically significant predictors.

CONCLUSION

Engaging in mindful eating and obtaining adequate sleep may protect against weight recurrence following bariatric surgery. Clinicians may want to screen and monitor these behaviors.

Cannabis use following bariatric surgery is associated with anxiety and maladaptive eating

BACKGROUND

There are limited data regarding the association of cannabis use with outcomes after bariatric surgery. As such, it is challenging to know how to counsel patients using cannabis.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to examine whether postsurgical cannabis use was associated with psychiatric symptoms and maladaptive eating among individuals up to 4 years after bariatric surgery.

SETTING

Single health system.

METHODS

All patients who underwent bariatric surgery over a 4-year period were invited to participate. Participants (N = 765) completed questionnaires online regarding postsurgical cannabis use, psychiatric symptoms, and maladaptive eating.

RESULTS

Any cannabis use after bariatric surgery was associated with increased likelihood of having elevated symptoms of anxiety (odds ratio [OR] = 1.88, P = .003; 37.8% versus 24.4%), increased likelihood of grazing behaviors (OR = 1.77, P = .01; 71.2% versus 58.2%), and higher scores for eating in response to depression (P = .01; 12.13 versus 10.75). Weekly cannabis use was associated with loss of control eating (OR = 1.81, P = .04; 37.2% versus 24.7%), binge eating (OR = 2.16, P = .03; 20.0% versus 10.4%), and night eating behaviors (OR = 2.11, P = .01; 40.0% versus 24.0%). Cannabis use was not associated with depression (P > .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Cannabis use after bariatric surgery was associated with anxiety symptoms and engaging in maladaptive eating behaviors. Frequent cannabis use (i.e., ≥1 per week) was associated with additional types of maladaptive eating. Clinicians involved in presurgical and postsurgical care may want to counsel patients currently using cannabis, especially those who are engaging in frequent use.

Anxiety and Negative Body Image are Associated with Binge Eating in Patients Who Underwent Bariatric Surgery a Minimum of 2 Years

PURPOSE

Bariatric surgery is an effective method for the treatment of severe obesity, however, binge eating disorder (BED) and negative body image can interfere with post-surgical evolution.

OBJECTIVE

To describe the factors associated with BED in bariatric patients with a minimum of 2 years post-surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A cross-sectional observational study conducted with patients who underwent bariatric surgery through the Unified Health System (Sistema Único de Saúde [SUS]) and presenting a minimum of 2 years post-surgery. BED, depression symptoms, anxiety symptoms, quality of life and body image concerns were assessed by the Binge Eating Scale, Beck Depression Inventory, Beck Anxiety Inventory, Bariatric Analysis and Reporting Outcome System, and Body Shape Questionnaire, respectively. Socioeconomic and anthropometric data were also collected.

RESULTS

Based on the ninety-two (92) patients evaluated, 83.7% were female, and had a mean age of 43.3 ± 9 years. Symptoms of depression (p = 0.002), anxiety (p = 0.000), body image concerns (p = 0.000), poor quality of life (p = 0.010), and obesity (p = 0.008) were associated with the presence of BED. All the anthropometric variables were higher in patients with BED, except excess weight loss. Regression analysis predicted BED through the presence of body image concern and anxiety symptoms.

CONCLUSION

Anxiety symptoms and body image concerns are associated with BED in patients who underwent bariatric surgery a minimum of 2 years.

What About My Weight? Insufficient Weight Loss or Weight Regain After Bariatric Metabolic Surgery

Context

This review study aimed to investigate the definition, etiology, risk factors (RFs), management strategy, and prevention of insufficient weight loss (IWL) and weight regain (WR) following bariatric metabolic surgery (BMS).

Evidence Acquisition

Electronic databases were searched to retrieve relevant articles. The inclusion criteria were English articles with adult participants assessing the definition, prevalence, etiology, RFs, management strategy, and prevention of IWL/WR.

Results

Definition: The preferred definition for post-BMS IWL/WR are the terms "Lack of maintenance of total weight loss (TWL)>20%" and "weight change in percentage compared to nadir weight or weight loss". Prevalence: The exact prevalence of IWL/WR is still being determined due to the type of BMS and various definitions. Etiology: Several mechanisms, including hormonal/metabolic, dietary non-adherence, physical inactivity, mental health, and anatomic surgical failure, are possible etiologies of post-BMS IWL/WR. Risk factors: Preoperative body mass index (BMI), male gender, psychiatric conditions, comorbidities, age, poor diet, eating disorders, poor follow-ups, insufficient physical activity, micronutrients, and genetic-epigenetic factors are the most important RFs. Management Strategy: The basis of treatment is lifestyle interventions, including dietary, physical activity, psychological, and behavioral therapy. Pharmacotherapy can be added. In the last treatment line, different techniques of endoscopic surgery and revisional surgery can be used. Prevention: Behavioral and psychotherapeutic interventions, dietary therapy, and physical activity therapy are the essential components of prevention.

Conclusions

Many definitions exist for WR, less so for IWL. Etiologies and RFs are complex and multifactorial; therefore, the management and prevention strategy is multidisciplinary. Some knowledge gaps, especially for IWL, exist, and these gaps must be filled to strengthen the evidence used to guide patient counseling, selection, and improved outcomes.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapies for Weight-Loss in Adults: A Scoping Review Protocol

Obesity and being overweight are very important public health issues due to their increasing prevalence worldwide. Third-wave cognitive behavioural therapies (3wCBT) have emerged in the last few years to promote weight loss. However, the scientific evidence identifying the most commonly used 3wCBT in weight-loss interventions in adults is still needed. The objective of this scoping review will be to identify the most widely researched 3wCBT used to facilitate weight loss in an adult population who are overweight and obese, according to the published scientific literature. The search will be carried out independently by two authors in PubMed (MEDLINE), Scopus, EMBASE, Web of Science, and PsycINFO, using search equations that contain keywords related to our search question: (1) population: adult and elderly population, (2) intervention: terms related to 3wCBT, and (3) results: weight loss or weight management. The data extraction will be performed following the indications of the Cochrane manual, and the results will be presented in three tables. The 3wCBTs have shown promising results for weight loss, but it is not yet known which of them is the most widely used to achieve weight loss in the adult population. Thus, the results of this scoping review could guide professionals in the psychological treatment of obesity and being overweight.

Weight loss maintenance after bariatric surgery

Metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) is an effective treatment for patients with morbid obesity and its comorbidities. However, many patients experience weight regain (WR) after achieving their nadir weight. Establishing the definition of WR is challenging as postoperative WR has various definitions. Risk factors for WR after MBS include anatomical, racial, hormonal, metabolic, behavioral, and psychological factors, and evaluating such factors preoperatively is necessary. Long-term regular follow-up and timely treatment by a multidisciplinary team are important because WR after surgery is multi-factorial. Although lifestyle interventions that focus on appropriate dietary education, physical activity education or interventions, and behavioral psychological interventions are suggested, more well-designed studies are needed because studies evaluating intervention methods and the effectiveness of WR prevention are lacking. Anti-obesity drugs can be used to prevent and manage patients with WR after MBS; however, more research is needed to determine the timing, duration, and type of anti-obesity drugs used to prevent WR.

Screening Risks of Alcohol Abuse, Depressive Symptoms, and Decreased Health-Related Quality of Life in Post-Bariatric Patients and Their Relations to Weight Regain

PURPOSE

Not all patients who underwent bariatric surgery keep their regular medical follow-up. We screened alcohol use, depressive symptoms, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in post-bariatric patients who have lost medical follow-up at their first appointment in our healthcare unit. These screened disorders were compared between low vs. high ratios of weight regain (RWR) and correlated with surgical outcomes.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Ninety-four post-bariatric patients without medical follow-up (87.2% female, aged 42 ± 9 years, BMI = 32.9 ± 6.5kg/m²) were included. They underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (n = 80) or sleeve gastrectomy (n = 14). They were divided into high RWR (≥ 20%) and low RWR (< 20%) groups. We used Alcohol Use Disorders Inventory Test, Beck Depression Inventory, and 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey.

RESULTS

Neck and waist circumferences, diastolic blood pressure, and time since surgery were higher in the high than low RWR group (P≤ 0.05). No differences between groups for alcohol use and depressive symptoms were detected (P≥ 0.07), but those who regained more weight exhibited poorer health scores in physical functioning, physical role limitations, bodily pain, and vitality (P≤ 0.05). In the low RWR group, the RWR was inversely correlated to physical/social functioning and vitality. Positive associations were present between RWR vs. depressive symptoms, while negative ones were noted to physical functioning and general health perception in the high RWR group.

CONCLUSIONS

HRQoL has deteriorated in those post-bariatric patients without medical follow-up who regained more weight, possibly indicating the need for regular long-term health care.

Food Addiction: A Comprehensive Review

Food addiction is associated with dysfunctions in the reward circuit, such as hyperresponsiveness during the exposure to high-calorie flavors in overweight and obese individuals. Similar to drug addiction, there is also impaired self-regulatory control supported by deregulation of the frontostriatal circuit. The inclusion of validated measures of food addiction in clinical research, such as the Yale Food Addiction Scale, has increased the understanding of the clinical utility of this concept. Furthermore, food addiction, eating disorders, and obesity are interrelated. Thus, it is important to recognize food addiction among individuals affected by obesity and candidates for bariatric surgery (ie, preoperative and postoperative assessment). In this context, it has been reported that food addiction may impede weight loss and increase the likelihood of regaining weight when associated with personality traits such as neuroticism and impulsiveness, which are also related to mood disorders, anxiety, and addictive behaviors.

The Factor Structure and Stability of the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) in a Population Undergoing Bariatric Surgery

PURPOSE

Depression is a multifaceted psychiatric condition that has been associated with suboptimal weight loss following bariatric surgery. Previous variations of Beck Depression Inventory-Second Edition (BDI-II) subscales been proposed, including those identified within bariatric populations; however, it is unclear whether the BDI-II items contained within these subscales would remain consistent after the procedure considering the physical and lifestyle changes that occur following bariatric surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A two-step analytic approach that comprised of exploratory (EFA) and confirmatory factor analyses (CFA) that aimed to identify a stable factor structure using pre- and 6-month post-surgical BDI-II responses. Baseline BDI-II responses of 149 patients (Group 1) were used to identify an initial EFA model. Five BDI-II models underwent CFA using BDI-II responses of a comparable pre-surgical group (Group 2; n = 142), and 6-month post-surgical data from Group 1.

RESULTS

EFA generated a two-factor solution. Of the five CFA models performed, the three-factor model that was initially identified by Hayes (2015) among patients undergoing bariatric surgery demonstrated superior fit across time and between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the EFA initially identified a two-factor model, CFA determined that a previously defined three-factor model reliably fit both pre- and post-surgical BDI-II responses. This study supports using the Hayes (2015) subscales when monitoring pre- and post-bariatric surgery facets of depression specific to this population. Being able to accurately and reliably monitor depressive symptoms of patients that are undergoing bariatric surgery will allow for the provision and monitoring of targeted interventions aimed at improving their mental and physical health outcomes.

Childhood trauma, posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms, early maladaptive schemas, and schema modes: a comparison of individuals with obesity and normal weight controls

BACKGROUND

Previous research on the psychological mechanisms of obesity has primarily focused on acute psychopathology. However, there is limited literature on the role of more complex and entrenched psychological processes in weight management. The current study aimed to expand previous research by examining more enduring psychological constructs, including early maladaptive schemas (EMS), schemas modes, and trauma.

METHODS

Participants (N = 125) comprised adults with normal weight (n = 40) and obesity (n = 85) from community and clinical settings in Australia. Eligible participants completed a series of self-report questionnaires via Research Electronic Data Capture (REDCap). Two, separate, one-way multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) were conducted to examine group differences on the outcome variables.

RESULTS

Findings indicated a significant effect of group on EMS and schema modes, V = .51, F(32, 92) = 2.97, p < .001, partial η² = .51. Follow-up univariate tests revealed that individuals with obesity endorsed significantly more maladaptive schemas and schema modes and significantly less healthy schema modes than individuals with normal weight. In addition, results demonstrated a significant effect of group on childhood trauma and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, V = .19, F(6, 118) = 4.70, p < .001, partial η² = .19. Subsequent univariate tests and chi-square analyses indicated that individuals with obesity reported significantly more childhood trauma as well as significantly more PTSD symptoms within the last month than normal weight individuals.

CONCLUSION

This was the first study to compare EMS and schema modes in treatment-seeking individuals with obesity and normal weight controls using the short form version 3 of the Young Schema Questionnaire and revised, 118-item, Schema Mode Inventory. Overall, findings revealed that individuals with obesity experience more complex and enduring psychological difficulties than normal weight individuals. Increased assessment and targeted treatment of these underlying mental health concerns may contribute to a more holistic conceptualisation of obesity and could improve the long-term success of weight management.

Correlation between Anxiety Symptoms and Perception of Quality of Life in Women with More Than 24 Months after Undergoing Bariatric Surgery

Purpose: To analyze the correlation between anxiety symptoms and perceived quality of life in women more than 24 months after undergoing bariatric surgery. Methods: Cross-sectional, descriptive and analytical study, carried out with women who underwent bariatric surgery after at least 24 months. To assess the level of anxiety symptoms, the Beck Inventory was used and to assess the perception of quality of life, the Item Short Form Healthy Survey was applied. Results: Of the 50 participants, 36.0% had reports indicative of moderate symptoms and 64.0% had severe symptoms of anxiety. The domains of quality of life that correlated with better perception were pain (p < 0.001), functional capacity (p = 0.013), general health status (p = 0.018), social aspects (p < 0.001), and mental health (p < 0.001). In linear regression, a significant inverse correlation was found between the general emotional component of quality of life and anxiety score (β = −0.546; CI −1.419; −0.559; p < 0.001) and between the general physical component of quality of life and anxiety score (β = −0.339; CI −0.899; −0.131; p = 0.010), both independent of weight regain and surgery time. Conclusions: It was observed that moderate to severe anxiety symptoms seem to interfere with the perception of quality of life, regardless of weight regain and surgery time.

Loss-of-Control Eating and Cardiometabolic Health in Relation to Overweight and Obesity

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Loss-of-control (LOC) eating, the subjective feeling of being unable to control what or how much is being consumed, is common. The purpose of this review was to examine the relationships among LOC eating, cardiometabolic health, and weight management intervention outcomes.

RECENT FINDINGS

In youth and adults, LOC eating is associated with and predictive of psychological symptoms, high weight, and worsened cardiometabolic health. While LOC eating pre-intervention does not appear to impact outcomes, LOC eating during or following is associated with worsened outcomes from behavioral and surgical weight management interventions. When individuals are undergoing weight management interventions, it may be important to regularly assess for LOC eating. There is limited research on the examined relationships in diverse populations (e.g., males, individuals of a lower socio-economic status, racial/ethnic minority groups). Future research should examine these relationships across the lifespan in diverse populations, with a focus on how these relationships can be impacted through targeted interventions.

Factors associated with quality of life and weight regain 12 years after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass

BACKGROUND

Scarce evidence exists in the literature about the factors influencing the long-term quality of life (QoL) and weight regain (WR) after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). The aim of the present study was to investigate factors associated with WR and QoL, measured by obesity specific Moorehead-Ardelt Quality of Life Questionnaire II (M-A QoLQ II), 12 years after RYGB.

METHODS

This prospective longitudinal cohort study included 74 patients with obesity who had RYGB at the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences hospital Surgery department in 2005. Gastrointestinal and dumping symptoms, hypoglycemia, depression and anxiety disorders, hunger, satiety after meals, portion size, and grazing were assessed in the patients who agreed to participate in the study. General linear models were constructed to estimate the effect of variables on the WR and QoL.

RESULTS

12-year follow-up data were available for 50 patients (38 female, median body mass index (BMI) before surgery 42.4). The mean % excess BMI loss (%EBMIL) after 12 years was 63.1 (24.6) and the average %WR was 32.2 (19.4). The mean M-A QoLQ II score was 1.44 (1.3). Majority of the patients (76.6%) reported good or very good QoL. In multivariable analysis, only grazing (17.41% 95% CI 7.61-27.21; P = 0.001) was found to be a significant independent factor associated with WR. Factors independently associated with worse QoL were grazing (- 0.97 95% CI - 1.72, - 0.22; P = 0.013) and frequency of abdominal pain once or more per month (- 1.82 95% CI - 2.79, - 0.85; P = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

12 years after RYGB majority of the patients report good or very good QoL and despite some WR have achieved and maintained significant weight loss. Grazing was associated with both WR and worse QoL, while the frequency of abdominal pain once or more per month was associated with only decreased QoL.

Prevalence and Outcomes of Depression After Bariatric Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Surgeons often focus on weight loss and improvement of obesity-related conditions as a primary outcome after bariatric surgery. However, the success of bariatric surgery also relies on the improvement of mental health status. Therefore, the current meta-analysis was carried out to reveal the prevalence of depressive symptoms and their subsequent impact on bariatric surgery outcomes. This study was performed following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) checklist and the recommendation of Cochrane Collaboration. All clinical studies reporting the prevalence and/or the outcomes of depression after bariatric surgery were included in the current meta-analysis. This meta-analysis encompassed 33 articles, including a total of 101,223 patients. The prevalence of post-bariatric surgery depression was 15.3% (95% confidence intervals {CI}: 15.0-15.5%, p<0.001) among which severe, moderate, and minimal depression accounted for 1.9% (95% CI: 1.5-2.4%, p<0.001), 5.1% (95% CI: 4.4-5.8%, p<0.001), and 64.9% (95% CI: 63.3-66.5%, p<0.001), respectively. Depression is negatively correlated with weight loss (correlation -0.135; 95% CI: -0.176 to 0.093; p<0.001) and positively correlated with eating disorder (correlation 0.164; 95% CI: 0.079-0.248; p<0.001). The prevalence of post-bariatric surgery depression is relatively high reaching up to 64.9%, with almost one in five patients affected by it. Depression is associated with weight regain, eating disorders, and quality of life.

Longitudinal patterns of comorbidity between anxiety, depression and binge eating symptoms among patients with obesity: A path analysis

BACKGROUND

Depression, anxiety, and binge eating are common psychiatric symptoms among people with obesity. Although many studies seek to understand the mechanisms of association between these psychiatric symptoms, there is no still consensus about the longitudinal association.

METHODS

155 patients (124 women) were recruited from a university-based bariatric center and evaluated over three waves (T0-T1-T2). In the last period the sample comprised 126 (104 women) participants. Trained clinicians assessed psychiatric symptoms by telephone interview using measurement scales. Partial Least Squares (PLS) was applied to investigate the path effects between anxiety, depression and binge eating symptoms over time.

RESULTS

The results of path coefficients (β) showed that the effect of anxiety on depression was constantly significant in all periods T0 (β = 0.74), T1 (β = 0.71), and T2 (β = 0.67). Anxiety had an effect on binge eating in T0 (β = 0.39) and T2 (β = 0.26) but not in T1. Binge eating affected depressive symptoms only in T2 (β = 0.22). Two carry-over-effects were significant binge eating in T0-T1 (β = 0.41) and T1-T2 (β = 0.19).

LIMITATIONS

Telephone interviews, social isolation due to the pandemic and the social desirability may have contributed to collection and information biases.

CONCLUSION

Anxiety has significant path effects on depression and binge eating. Binge eating was shown to be the most unstable symptom over time. The time factor seems to contribute to path effects between the psychiatric symptoms. The results draw attention to the fact that psychiatric symptoms must be evaluated and treated in association with each other, and investigated over time.

Can We Benefit from the Preoperative Psychometric Test with Symptom Checklist-90-Revised (SCL-90-R) to Predict Weight Loss After Sleeve Gastrectomy?

BACKGROUND

The psychological assessment is crucial before bariatric surgery. Derogatis' Symptom Checklist-90-Revised (SCL-90-R) is one of the most widely used measures of psychological symptoms and distress in both clinical and research settings. We aimed to investigate the predictive value of SCL-90-R subscale scores on postoperative excess weight loss percentage (EWLP) after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG).

METHODS

Patients who underwent primary LSG for morbid obesity and fully completed preoperative SCL-90-R between January 2016 and July 2019 were retrospectively examined. A multiple linear regression analysis was performed to investigate the relationship between descriptive and psychological variables associated with EWLP percentage at the 12th-month.

RESULTS

One hundred six patients who met the inclusion criteria were analyzed. The adequate weight loss (EWLP ˃ 50%) was achieved in 90% of patients after 12 months. The multiple linear regression analysis indicated that younger patients (β =  - 0.695; 95% CI - 1.056, - 0.333; p < 0.001), and patients with preoperative lower BMI (β =  - 1.524; 95% CI - 1.974, - 1.075; p < 0.001) achieved higher EWLP at 12th-month. High somatization score (β = 11.975; 95% CI 3.653, 20.296; p = 0.005) and a low Global Severity Index (GSI) score (β =  - 24.276; 95% CI - 41.457, - 7.095; p = 0.006) had a positive effect on EWLP at 12th-month.

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative psychological testing can help predict surgical outcomes in the bariatric population. More intense lifestyle and behavioral support can be applied by targeting patients who are expected to lose less weight after surgery, and patients' weight loss potential can be increased.

Can responsive deep brain stimulation be a cost-effective treatment for severe obesity?

OBJECTIVE

A first-in-human responsive deep brain stimulation (rDBS) trial (NCT03868670) for obesity is under way, which is based on promising preclinical evidence. Given the upfront costs of rDBS, it is prudent to examine the success threshold for cost-effectiveness compared with laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB).

METHODS

Efficacy and safety data on LRYGB and safety data on rDBS were collected for established indications through a literature search. The success threshold was defined as minimum BMI reduction. Treatment costs were calculated via Medicare national reimbursement data.

RESULTS

LRYGB had a mean BMI reduction of 13.75 kg/m² . Based on adverse events, LRYGB was a less-preferred health state (overall adverse event utility of 0.96 [0.02]) than rDBS (0.98 [0.01]), but LRYGB ($14,366 [$6,410]) had a significantly lower treatment cost than rDBS ($29,951 [$4,490]; p < 0.0001). Therefore, for rDBS to be cost-effective compared with LRYGB, the multiple models yielded a success threshold range of 13.7 to 15.2 kg/m² .

CONCLUSIONS

This study established a preliminary efficacy success threshold for rDBS to be cost-effective for severe obesity, and results from randomized controlled trials are needed. This analysis allows for interpretation of the economic impact of advancing rDBS for obesity in light of ongoing trial results and suggests an attainable threshold is needed for cost-effectiveness.

Patients’ Experiences of Weight Regain After Bariatric Surgery

Purpose

Bariatric surgery is a successful obesity treatment; however, an estimated 1/5 of patients have regained more than 15% of their body weight 5 years post-surgery. To increase the understanding of patients who experienced weight regain after bariatric surgery, we conducted a qualitative study.

Materials and Methods

We recruited 16 adult participants (4 men, 12 women) at an obesity clinic in Stockholm, Sweden, 2018 to 2019, and performed semi-structured individual interviews. The transcribed recorded interview data was analyzed with thematic analysis.

Results

Participants had undergone gastric bypass surgery on average 10 years prior to study and regained 36% (range 12 to 71%) of their weight from their nadir. Participants experienced challenges such as eating in social settings, loneliness, family difficulties, increases in appetite, and physical and mental health problems, which distracted them from weight management. Participants responded to weight regain with emotional distress, particularly with hopelessness, discouragement, shame, and frustration (theme: loss of control and focus). Nonetheless, participants experienced remaining benefits from the surgery, despite weight regain. Social support, self-care, and behavioral strategies were perceived as facilitators for weight management (theme: reducing the burden of weight management).

Conclusions

Weight regain after bariatric surgery was perceived to be an unexpected and difficult experience that induced hopelessness, discouragement, shame, and frustration. Results indicate that internal and external circumstances such as psychosocial factors, changes in appetite, and physical and mental health problems may contribute to loss of control over weight. Social support, self-care, and behavioral strategies might facilitate long-term post-surgical weight management.

Graphical abstract

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11695-022-05908-1.

Food Addiction and Binge Eating Impact on Weight Loss Outcomes Two Years Following Sleeve Gastrectomy Surgery

BACKGROUND

Emerging evidence suggest that problematic eating behaviors such as food addiction (FA) and binge eating (BE) may alter following bariatric surgery (BS) and impact weight outcomes. We aimed to examine the prevalence of FA and BE and their associations with weight outcomes 2 years post-sleeve gastrectomy (SG).

METHODS

Forty-five women (mean age 32.4 ± 10.9 years) who underwent SG and completed 24 months of follow-up were evaluated prospectively at pre-, 3-, 6-, 12-, and 24-month post-SG. Data collected included anthropometrics, nutritional intake, and lifestyle patterns. The Yale Food Addiction Scale (YFAS) and the Binge Eating Scale (BES) were used to characterize FA and BE, respectively.

RESULTS

Pre-surgery FA and BE were identified in 40.0% and 46.7% of participants, respectively. Following SG, FA and BE prevalence was 10.0%, 5.0%, 29.4%, and 14.2% (P = 0.007), and 12.5%, 4.9%, 18.4%, and 19.4% (P < 0.001) at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months, respectively. Women with BE at baseline gained significantly more weight from the nadir compared to non-BE women at baseline (P = 0.009). There was no relationship between FA at baseline and weight (P = 0.090). Weight regained from the nadir positively correlated with BES scores at baseline (r = 0.374, P = 0.019).

CONCLUSIONS

FA and BE tend to decrease during the early postoperative period, but remains in a notable rates return by 2 years post-SG. Moreover, pre-surgical BE was related to higher weight-regain. Proper management pre-BS should include a comprehensive eating pathologies assessment, as these pathologies may remain or re-emerge post-surgery and lead to worse weight outcomes.

Characteristics of Childhood Onset and Post-Puberty Onset Obesity and Weight Regain after Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy in Japanese Subjects: A Subgroup Analysis of J-SMART

INTRODUCTION

The psychosocial background of subjects with severe obesity developed from childhood onset obesity (CO) and their outcomes after bariatric surgery have not been fully investigated.

METHODS

305 subjects were enrolled in the J-SMART study, which examined the effects of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) in Japan, and categorized into two groups: CO defined as onset up to 13 years of age (CO group) and post-puberty onset obesity defined as onset after 13 years of age (PPO group). The subjects were followed up for at least 2 years and up to 5 years after LSG. Changes in physical parameters and remission of obesity-related comorbidities were assessed at 2 years after LSG. Weight regain (WR) was also assessed by evaluating the nadir weight after LSG and maximum weight thereafter during follow-up period.

RESULTS

The mean postoperative follow-up period was 3.0 ± 1.1 years. 40.0% of the subjects had CO and these subjects had higher BMI and HOMA-β and lower age, HbA1c, HDL cholesterol, and visceral/subcutaneous fat area ratio compared to those with PPO. The CO group was also characterized by having higher rates of mental retardation, developmental disorders, and obesity in either parent and lower rate of marriage compared to the PPO group. Two years after LSG, there were no differences in total weight loss and remission rates of diabetes, dyslipidemia, and sleep apnea syndrome between the two groups, although remission rate of hypertension was higher in the CO group. The CO group also had a higher rate of WR after LSG than the PPO group, with CO, BMI, mental disorder, and binge eating contributing to WR.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that CO might be associated with genetic and psychosocial factors. CO and PPO probably differ in pathogenesis and may require different treatment strategies.

Impact of Bariatric Surgery on the Healthy Eating Index, Binge Eating Behavior and Food Craving in a Middle Eastern Population: A Lebanese Experience

Even though bariatric surgeries (BS) are on the rise in Lebanon and the Middle East, the changes in diet quality, binge eating, and food cravings in this region are poorly studied peri-operatively. This cross-sectional study aimed to assess binge eating behaviors, food craving and the Healthy Eating Index (HEI) in Lebanese patients who underwent BS in a duration that exceeds 6 months. Evaluation included a dietary assessment of usual diet preoperatively and postoperatively. It included the collection of information on sociodemographic, anthropometric and surgical variables, as well as the administration of dietary recalls and questionnaires to calculate the HEI score, the Binge Eating Scale (BES) and the Food Craving Inventory (FCI). Participants (n = 60) were mostly females (85%) who had undergone sleeve gastrectomy (90%), with a mean duration since BS of 2.4 ± 1.8 years. Despite improvements in their HEI scores, 97% of the participants remained in the worst category. The frequency of participants in the severe BES category dropped markedly postoperatively from 78% to 5% (p < 0.01). Food craving followed a similar trend, with scores dropping from 50 ± 36 pre-surgery to 30 ± 25 post surgery (p < 0.01). Weight regain, prevalent among 40% of participants, was predicted by BES. Despite the improvement in BES and FCI, HEI improvement remained shy. Future interventions should validate findings in other countries and assess means for optimizing HEI scores among BS patients in the Middle East region.

Factors Related to Weight Loss Maintenance in the Medium-Long Term after Bariatric Surgery: A Review

Despite bariatric surgery being the most effective treatment for obesity, some individuals do not respond adequately, especially in the long term. Identifying the predictors of correct weight maintenance in the medium (from 1 to 3 years after surgery) and long term (from 3 years and above) is of vital importance to reduce failure after bariatric surgery; therefore, we summarize the evidence about certain factors, among which we highlight surgical technique, psychological factors, physical activity, adherence to diet, gastrointestinal hormones or neurological factors related to appetite control. We conducted a search in PubMed focused on the last five years (2015–2021). Main findings are as follows: despite Roux-en-Y gastric bypass being more effective in the long term, sleeve gastrectomy shows a more beneficial effectiveness–complications balance; pre-surgical psychological and behavioral evaluation along with post-surgical treatment improve long-term surgical outcomes; physical activity programs after bariatric surgery, in addition to continuous and comprehensive care interventions regarding diet habits, improve weight loss maintenance, but it is necessary to improve adherence; the impact of bariatric surgery on the gut–brain axis seems to influence weight maintenance. In conclusion, although interesting findings exist, the evidence is contradictory in some places, and long-term clinical trials are necessary to draw more robust conclusions.

Binge Eating After Bariatric Surgery in Patients Assisted by the Reference Service in a Brazilian Hospital and the Correlation with Weight Loss

PURPOSE

Identify, 18 months after bariatric surgery, the binge eating variation and its relation with weight regain or loss.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Cross-sectional, retrospective study with 108 patients, assisted by an obesity walk-in clinic of a specialized hospital in São Paulo (Brazil), who had undergone bariatric surgery a minimum of 18 months previously. The anthropometric and clinic data were collected from medical records, and binge eating symptoms were evaluated with the application of the Binge Eating Scale (BES). Scale outcomes were related to weight regain and loss at the application moment.

RESULTS

The average age (standard error) of the sample was 47 years (±0.91) and 93% were female. Patients had lost 52.2% of their body weight and regained 4.7% of their weight 18 months after the surgery. The elapsed surgical time (> 50 months) was associated with a higher gross weight (p<0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Bariatric surgery has been shown to be effective for improving diabetes mellitus as well as for controlling obesity. The variation in binge eating intensity 18 months after bariatric surgery is a factor that interferes in the amount of weight regained. The presence of binge eating symptoms negatively affects the % total weight loss (%TWL).

Eating patterns and unhealthy weight control behaviors are associated with loss-of-control eating following bariatric surgery

BACKGROUND

Loss-of-control (LOC) eating is associated with poor weight-loss outcomes following bariatric surgery. It is not clear whether eating patterns (e.g., total number of daily meals/snacks, eating after suppertime, eating when not hungry) and unhealthy weight control behaviors (e.g., smoking, using laxatives) are associated with or predictive of LOC eating.

OBJECTIVES

To examine whether eating patterns and unhealthy weight-control behaviors are associated with LOC eating and, if so, whether they predict LOC eating in bariatric patients.

SETTING

Multicenter study, United States.

METHODS

This is a secondary analysis of the Longitudinal Assessment of Bariatric Surgery-2 study. Assessments were conducted before surgery and at 12, 24, 36, 48, 60, and 84 months after surgery. Logistic mixed models were used to examine the longitudinal associations between eating patterns, unhealthy weight-control behaviors, and LOC eating. Time-lag techniques were applied to examine whether the associated patterns and behaviors predict LOC eating.

RESULTS

The participants (n = 1477) were mostly women (80%), white (86.9%), and married (62.5%). At the time of surgery, the mean age was 45.4 ± 11.0 years and the mean body mass index was 47.8 ± 7.5 kg/m². The total number of daily meals/snacks, food intake after suppertime, eating when not hungry, eating when feeling full, and use of any unhealthy weight-control behaviors were positively associated with LOC eating (P < .05). Food intake after suppertime, eating when not hungry, and eating when feeling full predicted LOC eating (P < .05).

CONCLUSION

Meal patterns and unhealthy weight control behaviors may be important intervention targets for addressing LOC eating after bariatric surgery.

Mediators of suicidality 12 years after bariatric surgery relative to a nonsurgery comparison group

BACKGROUND

Individuals undergoing bariatric surgery report higher levels of suicidality than the general population, but it is unknown what mediates this phenomenon or how this compares with individuals with severe obesity not receiving surgery.

OBJECTIVES

We evaluated suicidality in 131 individuals 12 years post surgery compared with 205 individuals with severe obesity who did not undergo surgery. Changes in health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and metabolic health were assessed as mediators of suicidality.

SETTING

University.

METHODS

Suicidality was assessed with the Suicide Behaviors Questionnaire-Revised at 12 years. Metabolic health and HRQOL (Short Form-36 [SF-36] Mental Component Summary score, Physical Component Summary score, and Impact of Weight on Quality of Life-Lite) were assessed at baseline and 2 and 6 years. The effects of bariatric surgery on suicidality at 12 years were assessed through univariate and multivariate sequential moderated mediation models, with changes in metabolic health and HRQOL from 0-2 years and 2-6 years as mediators.

RESULTS

Suicidality was higher in the surgery group versus the nonsurgery group (estimate [est.] = .708, SE = .292, P < .05). Only the indirect pathways at 2 years after surgery for SF-36 Mental Component Summary in the univariate models (est. = -.172, SE = .080, P < .05) and for SF-36 Physical Component Summary in the multivariate model (est. = .593, SE = .281, P < .05) were significant.

CONCLUSION

Individuals undergoing bariatric surgery reported higher levels of suicidality at 12 years, which was mediated by less improvement in the mental and physical components of HRQOL in the first 2 years after surgery, suggesting the need for additional clinical monitoring.

The Clinical Obesity Maintenance Model: A Theoretical Framework for Bariatric Psychology

Ranked highly in its association with serious medical comorbidities, obesity, a rapidly growing epidemic worldwide, poses a significant socio-economic burden. While bariatric procedures offer the most efficacious treatment for weight loss, a subset of patients risk weight recidivism. Due to the heterogeneity of obesity, it is likely that there are phenotypes or sub-groups of patients that require evidence-based psychological support to produce more sustainable outcomes. So far, however, characteristics of patients have not led to a personalized treatment algorithm for bariatric surgery. Maintenance of weight loss following bariatric surgery requires long-term modification of eating behaviors and physical activity. A recent Clinical Obesity Maintenance Model (COMM) proposed a conceptual framework of salient constructs, including the role of habit, behavioral clusters, emotion dysregulation, mood, health literacy, and executive function as interconnected drivers of obesity maintaining behaviors relevant to the field of bariatric psychology. The primary aim of this concise review is to bring together emerging findings from experimental and epidemiological studies relating to the COMM constructs that may inform the assessment and follow up of bariatric surgery. We also aim to explain the phenotypes that need to be understood and screened prior to bariatric surgery to enable better pre-surgery intervention and optimum post-surgery response.

The Impact of Psychological Resources on Body Mass Index in Obesity Surgery Candidates

BACKGROUND

Obesity surgery is the therapy of choice for severely obese patients. The results are promising, but at the same time obesity surgery represents a physical and psychological challenge for patients and care givers. In order to give psychosocial support adequately, more knowledge of effects of psychological profiles is required. Research is often deficit and symptom oriented. Psychological resources (competences) of individuals are often neglected. However, after surgery patients have to cope with the altered anatomic condition and therefore psychological resources are essential for a successful development and my influence also the surgical outcome. The interplay of eating behavior, depression, and psychological resources and their influence on weight are yet undetermined.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study in consecutive obesity surgery candidates was performed. One hundred twenty-seven participants were included (90 female, 37 male; mean BMI 49.85 kg/m²; range 36.7-84.2 kg/m²). After conducting semi-structured clinical interviews psychological resources, depression and eating behavior were assessed via three questionnaires: Essener Ressourcen-Inventar (ERI), Patient Health Questionnaire depression module (PHQ-d), and Eating Disorder Examination-Questionnaire (EDE-Q). To evaluate the influence of psychological resources on BMI mediation models and path analyses were performed.

RESULTS

Psychological resources do not influence BMI directly. Path analyses revealed depression as well as depression/eating behavior as mediating dimension. A first path showed that higher psychological resources are associated with less depressive symptoms and lower BMI. On the other side, a second path showed that higher psychological resources are related to less depression and by means of more conscious and controlled eating behavior to a lower BMI.

CONCLUSION

Psychological resources seem to be relevant in the context of obesity surgery. Good psychological resources show plausible associations with less depression and a more adequate eating behavior. The evaluation of psychological resources in obesity surgery candidates allows the identification of patients at risk. Competences of patients should be addressed in the context of surgery. Our findings build a foundation for a more individualized supportive treatment for obesity surgery candidates. Improving impaired psychological resources may help in the coping process after surgery and is supposed to lead to an even higher weight loss.

The Symptom-Checklist-K-9 (SCL-K-9) Discriminates between Overweight/Obese Patients with and without Significant Binge Eating Pathology: Psychometric Properties of an Italian Version

A general personality and psychopathology evaluation is considered to be crucial part of the multidisciplinary assessment for weight-related problems. The Symptom Checklist-90-Revised (SCL-90-R) is commonly used to assess general psychopathology in both overweight and obese patients seeking weight-loss treatment. The main purpose of the present research was to investigate the psychometric properties of the brief form of the SCL-90-R (i.e., the SCL-K-9) in a clinical sample (N = 397) of patients seeking weight-loss treatment (i.e., bariatric surgery and a nutritional weight-loss program). The results of the confirmatory factor analysis supported a one-factor solution of the SCL-K-9, with all nine items loading significantly on the common latent factor (lambdas ≥ 0.587). The ordinal α (= 0.91), the inter-item mean indices of correlation (rii = 0.53), and the convergent validity were also satisfactory. A receiver operating characteristic curves procedure showed that both SCL-90-R and SCL-K-9 were able to classify patients with and without significant binge eating pathology according to the Binge Eating Scale (BES) total score. Overall, our results suggest that the SCL-K-9 has adequate psychometric properties and can be applied as a short screening tool to assess general psychopathology in overweight/obese individuals seeking weight-loss treatment and at follow-up interviews when time restraints preclude the use of the full-length form.