Effects of Physical Activity on Disordered Eating Behaviours in Individuals With a Psychotic Disorder

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry and Behavioral Science
• Exercise Science
• Nutritional Psychology

Background:

• Individuals with psychotic disorders often experience disordered eating patterns.
• Physical activity interventions have shown promise in improving health outcomes in various populations.
• The specific impact of physical activity on eating behaviors in psychotic disorders requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of a 6-month physical activity program on cognitive restraint, uncontrolled eating, and emotional eating.
• To assess changes in eating behaviors among individuals diagnosed with psychotic disorders.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 27 participants with psychotic disorders engaged in a bi-weekly 6-month physical activity program.
• Activities included walking, running, yoga, cycling, and dancing.
• The Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire assessed eating behaviors before and after the intervention.

Main Results:

• Cognitive restraint levels did not significantly change (p=0.24).
• Uncontrolled eating significantly decreased post-intervention (p=0.02).
• Emotional eating significantly decreased post-intervention (p<0.001).

Conclusions:

• Physical activity demonstrates positive effects on reducing disordered eating behaviors, specifically uncontrolled and emotional eating, in individuals with psychotic disorders.
• These findings align with previous research in other populations, suggesting a broader applicability of physical activity interventions for eating behavior modification.
• Further research is recommended to elucidate the mechanisms through which physical activity influences eating behaviors in this population.