Adverse experiences as predictors of maladaptive and adaptive eating: Findings from EAT 2018

Adverse experiences, such as childhood abuse and other violence victimization, are associated with problematic eating. However, whether different types of adversity relate to both maladaptive and adaptive eating behaviors is unclear. This study examined the associations of different adverse experiences with maladaptive (i.e., overeating and binge eating) and adaptive (i.e., intuitive eating and mindful eating) eating by gender. Data were derived from the EAT-2018 (Eating and Activity over Time) study (N = 1411, aged 18-30 years in 2017-2018). Modified Poisson regressions were used to examine the associations between adverse experiences and the prevalence of maladaptive eating. Linear regressions were used to examine the associations between adverse experiences and adaptive eating scores. Each adverse experience was associated with greater prevalence of maladaptive eating and lower adaptive eating scores. Among women, intimate partner sexual violence was strongly associated with more overeating (PR = 2.1 [95% CI = 1.4-3.1]) and binge eating (PR = 2.4 [95% CI = 1.5-3.9]), and less mindful eating (β = -0.6, [95% CI = -0.8, -0.3]); being attacked, beaten, or mugged was most associated with less intuitive eating (β = -0.5, [95% CI = -0.8, -0.2]). Among men, being attacked, beaten, or mugged was strongly associated with more overeating (PR = 2.1 [95% CI = 1.2-3.5]) and binge eating (PR = 3.2 [95% CI = 1.6-6.5]); intimate partner physical violence was strongly associated with less intuitive eating (β = -0.6, [95% CI = -0.9, -0.2]); childhood emotional abuse was strongly associated with less mindful eating (β = -0.8, [95% CI = -1.0, -0.5]). To improve eating behaviors, adverse life experiences and the potential impact on maladaptive and adaptive eating should be considered.