Distinct Patterns of Dynamical Regulation in Passive Sensor Data Following Binge and Purge Behaviors
Jonathan E Butner1, Laura M Thornton2, Robyn E Kilshaw1
1Department of Psychology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.
The International Journal of Eating Disorders
|April 11, 2025
Summary
Smartwatches can track heart rate and activity changes during binge eating and purging behaviors in individuals with eating disorders. These data show promise for monitoring treatment progress and reducing binge-purge frequency.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Science
- Biomedical Engineering
- Digital Health
Background:
- Binge eating and purging are key symptoms of binge-eating disorder (BED) and bulimia nervosa (BN).
- These behaviors are linked to significant health issues and distress.
- Understanding the physiological regulatory dynamics is crucial for effective interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize heart rate (HR) and physical activity regulatory dynamics after binge and purge behaviors.
- To compare these dynamics to control periods and to each other.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from 295 participants in the BEGIN study over 30 days.
- Collected binge/purge data via the Recovery Record app.
- Measured steps and HR using Apple Watch devices.
- Modeled regulatory dynamics of HR and steps using multilevel models.
Main Results:
- HR regulatory dynamics were dysregulated after binges and mixed after purges, differing from homeostatic control periods.
- Step regulatory dynamics differed significantly between binges (dysregulated) and purges (homeostatic) compared to controls.
- Both HR and step dynamics showed distinct patterns following binge and purge behaviors.
Conclusions:
- Commercial smartwatches can capture complex HR and physical activity dynamics post-binge/purge.
- These dynamics show potential as digital markers for tracking treatment progress in BED and BN.
- Smartwatch data can aid in monitoring and reducing binge and purge frequency.
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