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Within-subject weight variability in bulimia nervosa: Correlates and consequences
Joanna Y Chen1, Simar Singh1, Michael R Lowe1
1Department of Psychology, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA.
The International Journal of Eating Disorders
|March 12, 2021
Summary
Weight fluctuations in bulimia nervosa (BN) predict worsening eating disorder symptoms over time. This study highlights weight variability as a key factor in BN pathology beyond psychological issues.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
- Eating Disorders Research
Background:
- Bulimia nervosa (BN) is characterized by cyclical binge eating, purging, and dieting.
- This behavior can lead to significant within-subject weight variability.
- Previous research linked weight variability to eating-related variables in general populations, but not specifically in eating disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the cross-sectional and prospective associations between weight variability and BN pathology.
- To determine if weight variability predicts future eating disorder symptoms in individuals with BN.
Main Methods:
- Collected four weight measurements over approximately 42 days for each participant.
- Calculated weight variability using the root mean square error around an individual's weight trajectory regression line.
- Employed linear regressions to assess associations, adjusting for baseline Body Mass Index (BMI).
Main Results:
- Cross-sectional associations between weight variability and eating pathology were not significant after adjusting for BMI.
- However, higher baseline weight variability prospectively predicted increases in body dissatisfaction, shape and weight concerns, and global eating pathology at 6-month follow-up, even after BMI adjustment.
Conclusions:
- Within-subject weight variability is a significant predictor of increased eating disorder pathology over time in individuals with bulimia nervosa.
- These findings suggest that weight history variables contribute to BN psychopathology independently of psychological dysfunction.
- Weight variability should be considered as a relevant clinical factor in understanding and treating BN.
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