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12 pages, 251 KB  
Article
Evaluating the Efficacy of Neurofeedback in Post-Bariatric Surgery Patients: A Pilot Study
by Claudia Scaramuzzino, Clara Lombardo, Giulia Esposito, Maria Rosaria Anna Muscatello, Antonio Bruno, Marco Populin, Giuseppe Navarra, Fabio Guccione and Carmela Mento
J. Pers. Med. 2025, 15(10), 454; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm15100454 - 29 Sep 2025
Viewed by 259
Abstract
Background: Obesity remains a major global health challenge, and a significant proportion of bariatric surgery patients continue to experience dysfunctional emotional eating and body image concerns after surgery. Neurofeedback training (NFT) has been investigated as a potential intervention for maladaptive eating behaviours, [...] Read more.
Background: Obesity remains a major global health challenge, and a significant proportion of bariatric surgery patients continue to experience dysfunctional emotional eating and body image concerns after surgery. Neurofeedback training (NFT) has been investigated as a potential intervention for maladaptive eating behaviours, but evidence in post-bariatric populations is still limited. Methods: Thirty-six patients who underwent sleeve gastrectomy were included, divided into an NFT group (N = 18) and a control group (N = 18). Assessments were performed at baseline and after 10 NFT sessions, using the Eating Disorder Inventory (EDI) and the Body Uneasiness Test (BUT). The intervention aimed to enhance alpha and theta waves with real-time feedback. Results: Compared with the control group, the NFT group showed significant improvements; specifically, reductions were observed in EDI subscales such as Drive for Thinness (p = 0.023, d = 0.51), Bulimia (p = 0.008, d = 0.92), Body Dissatisfaction (p = 0.015, d = 0.52), Ineffectiveness (p = 0.002, d = 0.89), Perfectionism (p = 0.006, d = 0.70), Interpersonal Distrust (p = 0.008, d = 0.82), and Interoceptive Awareness (p = 0.001, d = 0.91). Significant reductions were also found in BUT subscales including Weight Phobia (p = 0.041, d = 0.84), Body Image Concern (p = 0.039, d = 0.90), Avoidance (p = 0.027, d = 0.83), Compulsive Self-Monitoring (p = 0.013, d = 0.83), and Depersonalisation (p = 0.033, d = 0.85). Conclusions: The data indicate that NFT may help reduce emotional eating and related psychological factors in post-bariatric patients in the short term. However, studies with larger samples and longer follow-ups are needed to confirm its effectiveness and assess its clinical applicability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Bariatric Surgery)
14 pages, 649 KB  
Article
Using the Chinese Version of the Screen for Disordered Eating to Assess Disordered Eating: Reliability, Validity and Correlates
by Tin Yan Cherry Cheung, Ming Yu Claudia Wong, Chak Hei Ocean Huang, Stanley Kam Ki Lam, Kadir Uludag, Ming Sing Jessica Choi, Shan-Yan Huang and Hong Wang Fung
Healthcare 2025, 13(19), 2458; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13192458 - 28 Sep 2025
Viewed by 832
Abstract
Background/Objectives: This study evaluated the psychometric properties and correlates of the Screen for Disordered Eating (SDE) in the Chinese context. Eating and body image in Asian cultures differed from those in the Western context, elevating its importance in testing the validity of [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: This study evaluated the psychometric properties and correlates of the Screen for Disordered Eating (SDE) in the Chinese context. Eating and body image in Asian cultures differed from those in the Western context, elevating its importance in testing the validity of SDE in the Chinese context. Methods: The reliability, validity and correlates of the SDE were examined in a sample of 766 university students in Taiwan. Results: Convergent validity of the Chinese version of the SDE was demonstrated with high correlation (r = 0.664, p < 0.001) and satisfactory consistency (κ = 0.413, p < 0.001) with the Sick, Control, One Fat, and Food (SCOFF) questionnaire. Substantial factor loadings were suggested, with 52% of the variance in item responses, especially for SDE4 and SDE5. Significant correlates of disordered eating were found with sex, depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms, and experiences of childhood trauma. Conclusions: The SDE is a reliable and valid screening instrument for disordered eating. Health and social care practitioners can utilise the SDE to screen for disordered eating behaviours in the Chinese context, so that timely interventions can be provided. Full article
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17 pages, 734 KB  
Article
Social Media Consumption and Risk of Addiction Associated with Adolescent Disordered Eating Behaviour: An Observational Analysis
by María Peréz-Jiménez, María del Mar Uclés-Torrente, Gema Esperanza Ruiz-Gamarra, Manuel Vaquero-Álvarez, Isabel Maria Blancas-Sánchez, Pilar Aparicio-Martínez and Manuel Vaquero-Abellán
Nutrients 2025, 17(18), 3017; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17183017 - 21 Sep 2025
Viewed by 619
Abstract
Objectives: To examine the association between social media (SM) use and content exposure with the risk of developing eating disorders (EDs) among adolescents. Methods: A descriptive observational study was conducted using a structured questionnaire incorporating validated scales. The instrument assessed quantitative and qualitative [...] Read more.
Objectives: To examine the association between social media (SM) use and content exposure with the risk of developing eating disorders (EDs) among adolescents. Methods: A descriptive observational study was conducted using a structured questionnaire incorporating validated scales. The instrument assessed quantitative and qualitative variables related to eating habits, SM usage, self-esteem, and body image. The sample comprised students aged 12–17 years from a school in Córdoba, Spain. Results: A total of 115 students participated in the study. Among them, 43.5% were identified as being at risk of developing EDs. Of this subgroup, 54.0% were female, with male gender appearing as a protective factor against ED risk. A significant association was found between increased hours of SM use and higher ED risk, with an odds ratio (OR) of 5.54 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.03–14.33). Conclusions: The findings suggest that low self-esteem and negative body image are key factors associated with increased ED risk, and that SM may act as an amplifying influence. Preventive interventions should focus on enhancing self-esteem and fostering critical and conscious engagement with SM among adolescents to mitigate the development of eating disorders. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impact of Social Media on Eating Behavior)
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26 pages, 2258 KB  
Review
From Lab to Clinic and Farm: Leveraging Drosophila Feeding Studies to Combat Eating Disorders and Pest Challenges
by Ayesha Banu, Safa Salim and Farhan Mohammad
Biology 2025, 14(9), 1168; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14091168 - 2 Sep 2025
Viewed by 913
Abstract
Drosophila melanogaster has been a cornerstone of biological research, offering critical insights into genetics, neurobiology, and disease modelling. This review examines Drosophila feeding research, including the diverse assays available to study feeding behaviour, and explores its biomedical and entomological applications. We highlight studies [...] Read more.
Drosophila melanogaster has been a cornerstone of biological research, offering critical insights into genetics, neurobiology, and disease modelling. This review examines Drosophila feeding research, including the diverse assays available to study feeding behaviour, and explores its biomedical and entomological applications. We highlight studies that have advanced our understanding of human feeding and eating disorders, vector-borne infectious diseases, and agricultural pest control. In clinical applications, we discuss a two-pronged approach: using Drosophila to model human feeding and eating disorders, as well as to study insect vectors that contribute to human disease transmission. We explore how feeding studies in Drosophila provide valuable insights into energy homeostasis, metabolic regulation, pathogen–host interactions, and vector biology. Beyond clinical relevance, the entomological applications of Drosophila feeding research extend to sustainable pest management and insecticide resistance. Finally, we identify gaps in current research and suggest promising directions for further exploration. By leveraging the genetic and behavioural tools available in this model, researchers can continue to uncover conserved mechanisms with broad implications for human health, disease control, and agricultural sustainability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Neuroscience)
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14 pages, 559 KB  
Article
Emotion Regulation as a Predictor of Disordered Eating Symptoms in Young Female University Students
by Marina Rojas-Valverde and Elena Felipe-Castaño
Eur. J. Investig. Health Psychol. Educ. 2025, 15(9), 171; https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe15090171 - 27 Aug 2025
Viewed by 1272
Abstract
Eating disorders are characterised by concerns about food, body image, and weight control and/or reduction. They are more frequently described in women, and emotion regulation plays a central role in both their development and persistence. The aim of this study was to analyse [...] Read more.
Eating disorders are characterised by concerns about food, body image, and weight control and/or reduction. They are more frequently described in women, and emotion regulation plays a central role in both their development and persistence. The aim of this study was to analyse the sensitivity and specificity of emotion regulation in predicting disordered eating symptoms in a sample of female university students. Non-probabilistic sampling was used to recruit 558 female university students, with a mean age of 20.63 years (SD = 1.88). An adaptation in Spanish of the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS) and the Spanish version of the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (S-EDE-Q) were administered. The findings suggested that scores related to emotion dysregulation, emotional rejection, and emotional interference may help distinguish women with disordered eating symptoms associated with food restriction and eating concerns. It is important to have sensitive tools that can identify at-risk populations as well as relevant psychological constructs linked to eating disorders when developing intervention programmes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Risky Behaviors Among Youth: Assessment, Prevention, and Intervention)
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16 pages, 754 KB  
Article
Thin-Ideal Internalisation and Weight Bias Internalisation as Predictors of Eating Pathology: The Moderating Role of Self-Compassion
by Gillian Montague, Taban Eidipour and Sharon L. Grant
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2025, 22(8), 1278; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22081278 - 15 Aug 2025
Viewed by 988
Abstract
The internalisation of sociocultural ideals and beliefs about weight and shape has long been recognised as an important predictor of disordered eating. However, thin-ideal internalisation and weight bias internalisation (WBI) are generally examined separately in the literature and within sociocultural models of eating [...] Read more.
The internalisation of sociocultural ideals and beliefs about weight and shape has long been recognised as an important predictor of disordered eating. However, thin-ideal internalisation and weight bias internalisation (WBI) are generally examined separately in the literature and within sociocultural models of eating disorders. Additionally, self-compassion has been identified as a protective factor against disordered eating, but its role in mitigating the impact of the internalisation of these sociocultural ideals and beliefs has not been investigated. The current study aimed to investigate (1) the unique contribution of thin-ideal internalisation and WBI in predicting eating disorder cognitions and behaviours and (2) the role of self-compassion in moderating the relationship between thin-ideal/WBI and eating pathology. Four hundred and seventy-five (475) women completed an anonymous online survey. The results indicated that both thin-ideal internalisation and WBI uniquely contributed to the prediction of eating pathology after controlling for body mass index. Self-compassion buffered the effect of thin-ideal internalisation on restraint and the effect of WBI on eating concern. The results support consideration of both thin-ideal internalisation and WBI in sociocultural models of eating disorders and as targets for eating disorder interventions, particularly those based on self-compassion therapy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Behavioral and Mental Health)
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20 pages, 288 KB  
Article
Exploring the Involvement of Personal and Emotional Factors and Social Media Body Image-Related Behaviours on Eating Disorder Symptoms and Body Image Concerns in Women and Men
by Celia López-Muñóz, Roberto García-Sánchez, Melany León-Méndez and Rosario J. Marrero
Healthcare 2025, 13(16), 1997; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13161997 - 14 Aug 2025
Viewed by 584
Abstract
Background: Eating disorder (ED) symptoms and body image (BI) concerns involve serious risks to the physical and mental health of women and men. Social networking sites have amplified the promotion of idealised body images, contributing to this issue. Objectives: This study [...] Read more.
Background: Eating disorder (ED) symptoms and body image (BI) concerns involve serious risks to the physical and mental health of women and men. Social networking sites have amplified the promotion of idealised body images, contributing to this issue. Objectives: This study examines the link between personal and emotional factors, social media body image-related behaviours, BI concerns, and ED symptoms, as well as the differential role of these factors according to gender. Methods: A cross-sectional design was applied. The participants were 201 Spanish adults (mean age = 28.26; 76.6% women) who completed self-reported measures on BI (MBSRQ), ED symptoms (EAT-26), perfectionism (EDI-2), anxiety, depression, stress (DASS-21), emotional dysregulation (DERS), life satisfaction (SWLS), and social media BI-related behaviours. Results: Significant relationships between ED symptoms and BI concerns with personal and emotional factors and social media body image-related behaviours have been found. Women have scored higher in ED symptoms and social media BI-related behaviours than men. Multiple regression analyses showed that the difficulty in accepting emotions and not posting images due to BI dissatisfaction were risk factors for ED symptoms in both men and women. Furthermore, the adverse effect of perfectionism and low life satisfaction on women’s ED symptoms were demonstrated, whereas in men, goal-directed behaviours were associated with ED risk. Conclusions: These results suggest that prevention programmes focusing on emotional regulation and healthier social media use can be effective for ED symptoms and BI concerns. Full article
22 pages, 1254 KB  
Systematic Review
How Do the Psychological Functions of Eating Disorder Behaviours Compare with Self-Harm? A Systematic Qualitative Evidence Synthesis
by Faye Ambler, Andrew J. Hill, Thomas A. Willis, Benjamin Gregory, Samia Mujahid, Daniel Romeu and Cathy Brennan
Healthcare 2025, 13(15), 1914; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13151914 - 5 Aug 2025
Viewed by 704
Abstract
Background: Eating disorders (EDs) and self-harm (SH) are both associated with distress, poor psychosocial functioning, and increased risk of mortality. Much of the literature discusses the complex interplay between SH and ED behaviours where co-occurrence is common. The onset of both is typically [...] Read more.
Background: Eating disorders (EDs) and self-harm (SH) are both associated with distress, poor psychosocial functioning, and increased risk of mortality. Much of the literature discusses the complex interplay between SH and ED behaviours where co-occurrence is common. The onset of both is typically seen during teenage years into early adulthood. A better understanding of the functions of these behaviours is needed to guide effective prevention and treatment, particularly during the crucial developmental years. An earlier review has explored the functions of self-harm, but an equivalent review for eating disorder behaviours does not appear to have been completed. Objectives: This evidence synthesis had two objectives. First, to identify and synthesise published first-hand accounts of the reasons why people engage in eating disorder behaviours with the view to develop a broad theoretical framework of functions. Second, to draw comparisons between the functions of eating disorder behaviours and self-harm. Methods: A qualitative evidence synthesis reporting first-hand accounts of the reasons for engaging in eating disorder behaviours. A ‘best fit’ framework synthesis, using the a priori framework from the review of self-harm functions, was undertaken with thematic analysis to categorise responses. Results: Following a systematic search and rigorous screening process, 144 studies were included in the final review. The most commonly reported functions of eating disorder behaviours were distress management (affect regulation) and interpersonal influence. This review identified significant overlap in functions between self-harm and eating disorder behaviours. Gender identity, responding to food insecurity, to delay growing up and responding to weight, shape, and body ideals were identified as functions more salient to eating disorder behaviours. Similarly, some self-harm functions were not identified in the eating disorder literature. These were experimenting, averting suicide, personal language, and exploring/maintaining boundaries. Conclusions: This evidence synthesis identified a prominent overlap between psychological functions of eating disorder behaviours and self-harm, specifically in relation to distress management (affect regulation). Despite clear overlap in certain areas, some functions were found to be distinct to each behaviour. The implications for delivering and adapting targeted interventions are discussed. Full article
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8 pages, 192 KB  
Article
Silent Struggles: Uncovering Mental Health Burdens in Adolescents with Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis—A Retrospective Chart Review
by Kayla Beaudoin, Jaden Lo, Ethan Mewhinney, Kristen Bortolin, Tania Cellucci, Jenna Dowhaniuk, Liane Heale, Robert Issenman, Nikhil Pai, Mary Sherlock, Mary Zachos, Christina Grant, Karen Beattie, Katherine Prowse and Michelle Batthish
Children 2025, 12(8), 995; https://doi.org/10.3390/children12080995 - 29 Jul 2025
Viewed by 565
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are chronic autoimmune conditions that impact the physical and psychological well-being of pediatric patients. While previous studies have shown a high prevalence of mental health challenges among youth with chronic conditions, the prevalence [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are chronic autoimmune conditions that impact the physical and psychological well-being of pediatric patients. While previous studies have shown a high prevalence of mental health challenges among youth with chronic conditions, the prevalence of mental health issues in Canadian pediatric patients with JIA and IBD remains unclear. We aimed to estimate the prevalence of documented mental health disorders and related medication use of youth with JIA or IBD at a tertiary care centre. Methods: We conducted a retrospective chart review of youths aged 12–17 diagnosed with JIA or IBD at McMaster Children’s Hospital (MCH) to understand the prevalence of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), separation anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder (SAD), obsessive–compulsive disorders (OCD), eating disorders, major depressive disorder (MDD), adolescent adjustment disorder, suicide attempt/suicide ideation, self-harm behaviour, substance use disorder, and attention deficit disorders (ADD). Results: We reviewed 429 patient charts, including 303 patients with IBD and 126 with JIA. Our findings identified 90 IBD patients and 20 JIA patients who had one or more documented mental health conditions. Proportionately, there was a higher prevalence of mental health conditions among IBD patients (30%) compared to JIA patients (16%). The most frequently observed conditions in both IBD and JIA patients were GAD (63%, 50%), ADD (33%, 35%), and MDD (29%, 15%). Conclusions: These findings highlight the critical need for early mental health screening and integrated care approaches that address both medical and psychosocial needs in adolescents with chronic illnesses. Future research should incorporate prospective study designs, include diverse geographic and demographic populations, and explore targeted interventions to improve mental and physical health outcomes in this vulnerable group. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pediatric Mental Health)
14 pages, 462 KB  
Article
The Role of Boredom in the Development of Risky Behaviours Among Adolescents
by Bruno Matijašević, Snježana Mališa and Antonija Vukašinović
Adolescents 2025, 5(3), 36; https://doi.org/10.3390/adolescents5030036 - 11 Jul 2025
Viewed by 895
Abstract
Background: Boredom is a common but insufficiently explored experience in adolescence, which has been increasingly linked to the development of risky behaviours. This study explores the extent to which boredom predicts engagement in various risky behaviours among adolescents aged 15 to 17. Methods: [...] Read more.
Background: Boredom is a common but insufficiently explored experience in adolescence, which has been increasingly linked to the development of risky behaviours. This study explores the extent to which boredom predicts engagement in various risky behaviours among adolescents aged 15 to 17. Methods: A cross-sectional study on a sample of 281 high-school students in Croatia was performed in 2024. The participants completed a structured online questionnaire, including validated scales measuring their proneness to boredom, substance use, disordered eating, theft, and cyberbullying. Data were analysed using non-parametric tests, correlation coefficients, and linear regression. Results: Boredom showed a significant association with all forms of risky behaviour, with the strongest association found for disordered eating. Moderate predictive ability was observed for alcohol, marijuana, and drug use, while weaker but significant associations with cyberbullying and theft were also found. Male adolescents reported higher involvement in certain risky behaviours, although no significant gender differences were observed in boredom levels. Conclusions: Boredom is a developmental risk factor, notably when leisure time lacks structure and meaning. While the cross-sectional design of this study limits causal conclusions, the findings highlight the importance of taking boredom into consideration regarding pedagogical prevention efforts. Pedagogical activities targeting quality leisure time, especially within schools and families, may reduce adolescents’ susceptibility to harmful behaviours. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Implicit Measures of Risky Behaviors in Adolescence)
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15 pages, 246 KB  
Article
What Is the Effect of Attributing Disordered Eating Behaviours to Food Addiction Versus Binge Eating Disorder? An Experimental Study Comparing the Impact on Weight-Based and Mental Illness Stigma
by Megan G. Molnar, Lindsey A. Snaychuk and Stephanie E. Cassin
Nutrients 2025, 17(13), 2217; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17132217 - 4 Jul 2025
Viewed by 1087
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Food addiction (FA) and binge eating disorder share many overlapping features. Many individuals with binge eating disorder experience stigma; however, less is known about the stigma associated with food addiction. The current study examined the weight-based stigma and mental illness stigma associated [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Food addiction (FA) and binge eating disorder share many overlapping features. Many individuals with binge eating disorder experience stigma; however, less is known about the stigma associated with food addiction. The current study examined the weight-based stigma and mental illness stigma associated with attributing disordered eating behaviours to an FA diagnosis or binge eating disorder diagnosis. Methods: Undergraduate students (N = 177) were randomly assigned to read one of three vignettes (FA, binge eating disorder, or control), all of which described a character experiencing the overlapping features of FA and binge eating disorder; the vignettes differed only regarding the diagnosis to which the eating behaviours were attributed. Participants then completed questionnaires assessing their attitudes towards mental illness and obesity followed by questionnaires assessing their own eating behaviours. Results: There were no significant between-group differences in mental illness stigma or weight-based stigma. Significant differences in stigma were found based on the perceived gender of the vignette character and participants’ own FA and binge eating disorder symptoms. Conclusions: Stigma may not differ based on the diagnosis ascribed to addictive-like eating behaviours. Women may be more stigmatized for addictive-like eating behaviours, and individuals who experience addictive-like eating may be more stigmatizing towards others with these behaviours. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition and Public Health)
11 pages, 245 KB  
Article
Traumatic Events and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in Adolescents with Severe Eating Disorder Admitted to a Day Care Hospital
by Arturo Rodríguez-Rey, Flavia Piazza-Suprani, Elisabet Tasa-Vinyals, Maria Teresa Plana, Itziar Flamarique, Mireia Primé-Tous, Elena Moreno, Ines Hilker, Ester Pujal, Esteban Martínez and Susana Andrés-Perpiñá
Nutrients 2025, 17(13), 2125; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17132125 - 26 Jun 2025
Viewed by 730
Abstract
Background: It is common for patients with eating disorders (ED) to report traumatic experiences early in their lifetime. The objective of this study was to explore the presence and types of traumatic events and the comorbidity with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in a [...] Read more.
Background: It is common for patients with eating disorders (ED) to report traumatic experiences early in their lifetime. The objective of this study was to explore the presence and types of traumatic events and the comorbidity with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in a sample of adolescents with severe ED. Method: A total of 118 adolescents treated at our Eating Disorders Day Care Hospital (EDDCH) were systematically evaluated for depressive symptoms, disordered eating, early traumatic experiences, and presence of PTSD. Likewise, various clinical variables were collected including comorbidities, age upon ED diagnosis, number of hospital admissions, presence of non-suicidal self-injury, and suicide attempts. Results: Seventy-seven (65.3%) of adolescents of the total sample reported exposure to four or more traumatic events (bullying, psychological abuse, and sexual abuse being the most common). Fifty-seven of them (48.3% of the total sample) scored significantly high in PTSD assessment. Patients with ED and comorbid PTSD (PTSD+) presented higher disordered eating (p < 0.001) and depressive symptoms (p < 0.001) and also a higher prevalence of both non-suicidal self-injury (p = 0.031) and suicide attempts (p = 0.004). The depressive symptoms, measured with the CDI, emerged as an independent predictor of belonging to the PTSD+ group, explaining 22.9% of the variance. Conclusions: It is imperative to systematically screen adolescents with severe ED for traumatic events and PTSD, especially in patients presenting with more depressive symptoms and suicidal or non-suicidal self-injury behaviours, since this subset of patients could be at a higher risk of PTSD. Offering specific psychotherapeutic care targeting PTSD and/or posttraumatic symptoms in addition to the ED standard of care could arguably improve the prognosis of the ED in comorbid patients. Full article
12 pages, 509 KB  
Article
Group Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Binge Eating Disorder: Emotion Dysregulation and Alexithymia as Mediators of Symptom Improvement
by Luca Zompa, Emanuele Cassioli, Eleonora Rossi, Valentina Zofia Cordasco, Leda Caiati, Stefano Lucarelli, Ilenia Giunti, Lisa Lazzeretti, Giulio D’Anna, Simona Dei, Giuseppe Cardamone, Valdo Ricca, Francesco Rotella and Giovanni Castellini
Nutrients 2025, 17(12), 2003; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17122003 - 14 Jun 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1877
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) has emerged as a promising intervention for Eating Disorders (Eds), especially Binge Eating Disorder (BED), which is often characterized by severe emotion dysregulation. The aims of this study were to evaluate the longitudinal course of BED symptomatology following [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) has emerged as a promising intervention for Eating Disorders (Eds), especially Binge Eating Disorder (BED), which is often characterized by severe emotion dysregulation. The aims of this study were to evaluate the longitudinal course of BED symptomatology following a group-based DBT intervention focused on two specific modules, Emotion Regulation and Distress Tolerance, and to examine the mediating role of emotion dysregulation and alexithymia in symptom improvement. Methods: This non-randomized longitudinal clinical study involved 170 patients with BED who received a 16-week DBT group treatment including modules targeting emotion regulation and distress tolerance. Self-report questionnaires were administered at baseline (T0) and at the end of treatment (T1). Linear mixed models were used to analyze the longitudinal trend, and a mediation analysis was conducted to examine whether changes in emotion dysregulation and alexithymia mediated symptom improvement. Results: Longitudinal analyses showed a significant reduction in BED symptoms at the end of treatment as well as in the levels of emotion dysregulation and alexithymia. Mediation analyses revealed that both emotion dysregulation (indirect effect: −0.68 [−1.20; −0.31]) and alexithymia (indirect effect: −0.59 [−1.33; −0.20]) significantly mediated the improvement in BED symptoms over time. Conclusions: These findings support the application of focused DBT group interventions targeting emotion regulation and distress tolerance in reducing BED symptomatology. Emotion dysregulation and alexithymia were identified as mediators of longitudinal clinical improvement, highlighting the importance of modular and precision-based approaches in the treatment of BED. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition Methodology & Assessment)
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12 pages, 604 KB  
Perspective
Overcoming Implementation Barriers of Concurrent Treatment for Eating Disorders and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: Two Novel and Feasible Approaches
by Kathryn Trottier, Sara Bartel and Aaron Keshen
Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(6), 749; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15060749 - 30 May 2025
Viewed by 762
Abstract
Eating disorders (EDs) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) frequently co-occur and share a functional relationship. Evidence suggests benefits of integrated and/or concurrent treatment; however, implementation is hindered by clinician training burden and the challenges of delivering two treatments simultaneously. This paper explores two [...] Read more.
Eating disorders (EDs) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) frequently co-occur and share a functional relationship. Evidence suggests benefits of integrated and/or concurrent treatment; however, implementation is hindered by clinician training burden and the challenges of delivering two treatments simultaneously. This paper explores two novel and feasible approaches to addressing ED-PTSD. The first is a clinician-guided cognitive behavioural workbook intervention delivered concurrently with ED treatment. It involves psychoeducation, addresses dissociation, and encourages approach (versus avoidance) practices. The second involves combining Written Exposure Therapy (WET) with ED treatment at both outpatient and day hospital levels of care. Both interventions have a low training burden and are feasible in routine clinical practice, making concurrent approaches available to those who need them. Full article
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11 pages, 510 KB  
Article
Differences in Spinal Posture and Movement Between Adult Females with Anorexia Nervosa and Age- and Sex-Matched Normal-Weight Controls
by Munkh-Erdene Bayartai, Gabriella Tringali, Roberta De Micheli, Adele Bondesan, Enrica Ventura, Laura Abbruzzese and Alessandro Sartorio
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(11), 3723; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14113723 - 26 May 2025
Viewed by 846
Abstract
Background: Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder characterised by distorted eating behaviour, physical and mental health problems, and the highest mortality rate among psychiatric disorders. Although anorexia nervosa appears to be associated with alterations in the spine, studies investigating the characteristics of spinal [...] Read more.
Background: Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder characterised by distorted eating behaviour, physical and mental health problems, and the highest mortality rate among psychiatric disorders. Although anorexia nervosa appears to be associated with alterations in the spine, studies investigating the characteristics of spinal postures and mobility in individuals with anorexia nervosa are scarce to date. The present study aims to examine the relationship between anorexia nervosa and spinal posture and mobility by comparing people with anorexia nervosa to age-matched, normal-weight controls. Methods: Spinal posture and mobility were evaluated using a radiation-free back scan, the Idiag M360 (Idiag, Fehraltorf, Switzerland). Between-group differences were assessed using a two-way analysis of variance. Results: Adult females suffering from anorexia nervosa exhibited reduced lumbar [difference between groups (Δ) = 10.5°, 95% CI 4.6°–16.5°, p < 0.001] and thoracic (Δ = 8.8°, 95% CI 2.4°–15.2°, p = 0.007) curvatures compared to normal-weight controls. The only difference observed in spinal movements between the two groups was thoracic flexion, which was greater in individuals with anorexia nervosa (Δ = 8.4°, 95% CI 2.1°–14.4°, p = 0.009). Conclusions: These findings emphasise the need to consider spinal posture and thoracic mobility in the musculoskeletal assessment of anorexia nervosa. Interventions aimed at improving spinal postures may help to develop effective rehabilitative strategies for addressing spinal problems associated with anorexia nervosa and thus contributing to counteract the possible further worsening with advancing age. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Orthopedics)
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