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Eating behavior in atypical anorexia nervosa
Monica Jablonski1, Janet Schebendach1, B Timothy Walsh1
1Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York, USA.
The International Journal of Eating Disorders
|December 30, 2022
Summary
Individuals with atypical anorexia nervosa restrict calorie and fat intake similarly to those with anorexia nervosa. This highlights the need for targeted treatments for atypical anorexia nervosa to normalize eating behaviors.
Area of Science:
- Eating disorders research
- Clinical psychology
- Nutritional science
Background:
- Atypical anorexia nervosa is increasingly recognized in clinical and community settings.
- Psychological symptoms in atypical anorexia nervosa may be comparable or more severe than in anorexia nervosa.
- Understanding eating behaviors in atypical anorexia nervosa is crucial for effective treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare eating behaviors among patients with anorexia nervosa (AN), atypical anorexia nervosa (AAN), and healthy controls (HC).
- To investigate differences in total caloric intake, macronutrient composition, diet variety, and energy density between these groups.
Main Methods:
- A laboratory-based multi-item meal was used for participants to choose food items.
- Adults and adolescents from AN, AAN, and HC groups participated.
- Total intake, macronutrient composition, diet variety, and energy density were measured and compared.
Main Results:
- Both AN and AAN groups exhibited significantly lower caloric intake compared to HC.
- No significant difference was found in total calorie intake between AN and AAN groups.
- Both AN and AAN groups showed a notable restriction in dietary fat intake.
Conclusions:
- Individuals with atypical anorexia nervosa demonstrate restrictive eating behaviors comparable to those with anorexia nervosa.
- The restriction of dietary fat is a particularly significant finding in atypical anorexia nervosa.
- Further research with larger samples is recommended to validate these findings and inform treatment strategies for atypical anorexia nervosa.
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