Holgerson, A. A., Clark, M. M., Ames, G. E., Collazo-Clavell, M. L., Kellogg, T. A., Graszer, K. M., Kalsy, S. A., & Grothe, K. (2018). Association of Adverse Childhood Experiences and Food Addiction to Bariatric Surgery Completion and Weight Loss Outcome. Obesity Surgery, 28
(11), 3386–3392. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11695-018-3370-1
From the research article’s abstract: “Introduction/Purpose: Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are known risk factors for obesity and poor outcomes following weight loss interventions. ACEs are also associated with addictive behaviors and, potentially, food addiction (FA). This study examined the relationship between ACEs and FA, and their association to undergoing bariatric surgery and post-surgical weight loss outcomes. Materials and Methods: Between June 2013 and January 2016, 1586 bariatric-surgery-seeking patients completed a psychological evaluation. During their evaluation, the patients were administered measures including the ACE questionnaire and the Yale Food Addiction Scale. Results: 19.2% of those seeking bariatric surgery reported being the victim of childhood sexual abuse, and 22.1% reported being the victim of childhood physical abuse. An elevated ACE score corresponded to increased likelihood of screening positive for FA and more severe FA.