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Is exercise indicated for the patient diagnosed as anorectic?
D W Michielli1, C C Dunbar, M I Kalinski
1Department of Physical Education, Brooklyn College, City University of New York 11210.
Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services
|August 1, 1994
Summary
Anorexia nervosa patients may benefit from weight lifting over aerobic exercise. Modest weight lifting can increase lean body mass and improve therapy compliance by enhancing aesthetic outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Exercise Physiology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Anorexia nervosa involves voluntary food restriction leading to significant weight loss.
- Aerobic exercise is often discouraged due to high caloric expenditure and potential for overeating.
- Current therapeutic approaches may not fully address body image concerns related to weight gain.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the potential benefits of weight lifting in anorexia nervosa treatment.
- To evaluate if strength training can improve patient adherence to therapy.
- To investigate the impact of exercise type on body composition and aesthetic outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on anorexia nervosa and exercise.
- Analysis of the caloric demands of different exercise modalities.
- Consideration of the psychological effects of body composition changes.
Main Results:
- Aerobic exercise poses risks due to high caloric needs and potential for exercise addiction.
- Weight lifting, with modest caloric expenditure, can increase lean body mass.
- Gaining lean mass through weight lifting may lead to more favorable aesthetic results, potentially increasing motivation.
Conclusions:
- Weight lifting may be a more suitable exercise intervention for anorexia nervosa patients than aerobic exercise.
- Incorporating strength training could enhance treatment compliance by addressing body composition and aesthetic goals.
- Further research is warranted to validate the efficacy of weight lifting in anorexia nervosa recovery.