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Rupani N, Miller J, Renteria JA, Kaliebe KE. The impact of yoga on body image in adults: A systematic review of quantitative studies. Body Image 2024; 51:101772. [PMID: 39047524 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2024.101772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 07/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Evidence suggests that yoga can be used as an intervention to improve body image. This systematic review evaluates the evidence of the efficacy of yoga in improving body image among adults. Authors followed PRISMA guidelines, searching Pubmed, Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane, CINHAL, PsycInfo, and grey literature up to December 2, 2023 and identifying 446 unique records. Eligibility criteria included English-language, peer-reviewed studies with quantitative data on adult populations. Twenty-nine studies were eligible for inclusion and were evaluated for methodological quality using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE) approach. Interventions focused solely on yoga varied in length, frequency, and style. Our synthesis revealed that yoga is associated with improved body satisfaction and appreciation, as well as reduced body dissatisfaction, across diverse adult populations, including those with clinical or subclinical levels of body dissatisfaction. Most low- and moderate-quality studies reported significant improvements, and some suggested a dose-response relationship. However, the evidence is limited by methodological weaknesses, such as a lack of blinding and inadequate reporting. Despite these limitations, findings support yoga as a promising intervention for improving body image in adults. Future research should aim for methodologically rigorous studies that use validated outcome measures and more inclusive populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil Rupani
- Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, United States.
| | - Justin Miller
- Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, United States
| | - Julyssa A Renteria
- Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, United States
| | - Kristopher E Kaliebe
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, University of South Florida Health, Tampa, FL, United States
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2
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Lévy-Ndejuru J, Lemieux S, Carbonneau É, Jacob R, Bégin C, Desroches S, Provencher V. Associations between mind-body practice engagement and diet quality: Exploring the mediating roles of eating behaviour traits and regulation styles for eating behaviours in the PREDISE study. Appetite 2023; 184:106495. [PMID: 36809819 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2023.106495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/21/2023]
Abstract
While engaging in Mind-Body Practices (MBPs) may be related to better diet quality, its association with eating behaviours is unclear. This cross-sectional study explores whether eating behaviour traits and regulation style of eating behaviours mediate the association between MBP engagement and diet quality. A total of 418 women and 482 men, aged between 18 and 65 years and recruited as part of the PREDISE study cohort, reported whether they currently practice one or more MBP (e.g., yoga or meditation). Canadian Healthy Eating Index (C-HEI) was calculated from three 24h dietary recalls. Intuitive Eating Scale (IES-2), and Regulation of Eating Behaviour Scale were completed online. Mann-Whitney tests were conducted to compare C-HEI scores of individuals who currently engage in MBPs (practitioners) to those who do not (non-practitioners). Multiple regression analyses and bootstrapping were performed to test whether eating behaviours and regulation style of eating behaviours mediate the association between MBPs and diet quality. Overall, 88 women and 43 men were practitioners. They had higher C-HEI scores than non-practitioners (62.9 ± 13.0 vs. 55.6 ± 14.3; p = 0.001). Parallel mediation model showed significant indirect effects of the IES-2 subscale relating to Body-Food Choice Congruence (β = 1.57, SE = 0.41, 95% CI: 0.86, 2.43), self-determined motivation (β = 1.51, SE = 0.39, 95% CI:0.81, 2.32) and non-self-determined motivation (β = 0.39, SE = 0.21, 95% CI: 0.03, 0.85) on the association between practitioner status and C-HEI. These findings suggest that the current practice of MBPs is associated with better diet quality, mainly through practitioners' higher intuitive eating skills and more self-determined regulation of eating behaviours. Further studies should investigate the potential impacts of MBPs on the development and maintenance of positive eating habits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Lévy-Ndejuru
- School of Nutrition, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, G1V 0A6, Canada; Centre Nutrition, Santé et Société (NUTRISS), INAF, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, G1V 0A6, Canada.
| | - Simone Lemieux
- School of Nutrition, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, G1V 0A6, Canada; Centre Nutrition, Santé et Société (NUTRISS), INAF, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, G1V 0A6, Canada.
| | - Élise Carbonneau
- School of Nutrition, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, G1V 0A6, Canada; Centre Nutrition, Santé et Société (NUTRISS), INAF, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, G1V 0A6, Canada.
| | - Raphaëlle Jacob
- School of Nutrition, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, G1V 0A6, Canada; Centre Nutrition, Santé et Société (NUTRISS), INAF, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, G1V 0A6, Canada; Quebec Heart and Lung Institute Research Center, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, G1V 4G5, Canada.
| | - Catherine Bégin
- School of Nutrition, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, G1V 0A6, Canada; School of Psychology, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, G1V 0A6, Canada.
| | - Sophie Desroches
- School of Nutrition, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, G1V 0A6, Canada; Centre Nutrition, Santé et Société (NUTRISS), INAF, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, G1V 0A6, Canada.
| | - Véronique Provencher
- School of Nutrition, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, G1V 0A6, Canada; Centre Nutrition, Santé et Société (NUTRISS), INAF, Université Laval, Québec City, Québec, G1V 0A6, Canada.
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3
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Zakers A, Cimolai V. Complementary and Integrative Medicine and Eating Disorders in Youth: Traditional Yoga, Virtual Reality, Light Therapy, Neurofeedback, Acupuncture, Energy Psychology Techniques, Art Therapies, and Spirituality. Child Adolesc Psychiatr Clin N Am 2023; 32:421-450. [PMID: 37147045 DOI: 10.1016/j.chc.2022.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Eating disorders (EDs) are a non-heterogeneous group of illnesses with significant physical and mental comorbidity and mortality associated with maladaptive coping. With the exception of lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) for binge eating disorder, no medications have been effective for the core symptoms of ED. ED requires a multimodal approach. Complementary and integrative medicine (CIM) can be helpful as an adjunct. The most promising CIM interventions are traditional yoga, virtual reality, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, Music Therapy, and biofeedback/neurofeedback.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleema Zakers
- MPH Georgia Institute of Technology, Moorhouse School of Medicine, Emory School of Medicine, 750 Ferst Drive, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA.
| | - Valentina Cimolai
- Private Practice, Bloom Psychiatry and Wellness and Mindful Healing Group, 1245 Court Street, Clearwater, FL 33756, USA
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Efficacy of Eat Breathe Thrive: A randomized controlled trial of a yoga-based program. Body Image 2022; 42:427-439. [PMID: 35985168 DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2022.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Evidence positions yoga as a promising intervention for enhancing positive embodiment and supporting the prevention of, and recovery from, eating disorders (EDs) by reducing ED symptomatology and building skills that facilitate an ongoing, embodied sense of wellbeing. However, yoga-based programs are few and rigorous literature on their efficacy is limited. This study examined the efficacy and feasibility of a yoga-based program called Eat Breathe Thrive (EBT) which aims to prevent EDs and support embodiment. Participants (N = 168, 93.5 % women) from a community sample in the United States and United Kingdom, ages 18-65, were randomly allocated to a 2-h, 7-week EBT program or waitlist-control condition. Compared to controls, EBT participants experienced significant decreases in ED behaviors, depression, and difficulties regulating emotions. They reported significantly greater use of mindfulness skills, such as interoceptive awareness, mindful self-care, and mindful eating. After a single session, participants reported immediate improvement in their sense of well-being, indicating increased state positive embodiment. Most effects were sustained at 6-month follow-up. The majority of individuals attended most sessions. Self-reported treatment integrity was excellent. Directions for future research are proposed. Results support the efficacy and feasibility of an integrated yoga intervention that fosters positive ways of inhabiting the body.
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Paludo AC, Magatão M, Martins HRF, Martins MVS, Kumstát M. Prevalence of Risk for Orthorexia in Athletes Using the ORTO-15 Questionnaire: A Systematic Mini-Review. Front Psychol 2022; 13:856185. [PMID: 35645852 PMCID: PMC9133840 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.856185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The article aims to summarize the literature about the profile of risk of orthorexia in athletes using the ORTO-15 questionnaire. The search was performed at PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Sport Discus databases, using the terms “orthorexia” AND “athletes” with the respective entry terms. A multistage process of selection followed the PRISMA 2020 recommendation. A total of 688 articles were identified, and six studies were available for the final process. The prevalence of risk for orthorexia was assessed by the articles by the ORTO-15 questionnaire and ranged between 38 and 35 points. The comparison between male and female athletes and, athletes and non-athletes was not significant in the six articles. In conclusion, the review highlights that athletes from different sports, included in the review, do not present a risk of orthorexia nervosa considering the cutoff of 40 points, but not 35 points. Also, athletes present the same orthorexic behavior compared to non-athletes, demonstrating that orthorexia is an issue that needs to be considered in the general population. Moreover, a special focus should be given on the ORTO-15 questionnaire, about the sensitivity to diagnose the prevalence of orthorexia, especially in athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Carolina Paludo
- Incubator of Kinanthropology Research, Faculty of Sport Studies, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
- *Correspondence: Ana Carolina Paludo,
| | - Marina Magatão
- Department of Physical Education, Universidade Estadual do Centro-Oeste, Guarapuava, Brazil
| | - Hilana Rickli Fiuza Martins
- Department of Physical Therapy, Universidade Estadual do Centro-Oeste, Guarapuava, Brazil
- Department of Physical Therapy, UniGuairacá, Guarapuava, Brazil
| | | | - Michal Kumstát
- Department of Health Promotion, Faculty of Sport Studies, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
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Braun TD, Riley KE, Kunicki ZJ, Finkelstein-Fox L, Conboy LA, Park CL, Schifano E, Abrantes AM, Lazar SW. Internalized weight stigma and intuitive eating among stressed adults during a mindful yoga intervention: associations with changes in mindfulness and self-compassion. Health Psychol Behav Med 2021; 9:933-950. [PMID: 34868736 PMCID: PMC8635578 DOI: 10.1080/21642850.2021.1992282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Internalized weight stigma (IWS) is common in the United States of America across body weight categories, and is implicated in the development of distress and unhealthy eating behaviors (e.g. overeating, disordered eating) that can foster poor cardiometabolic health. While emerging intervention research shows early promise in reducing IWS, long-term efficacy is unclear and novel strategies remain needed. This analysis examined whether participation in a mindful yoga intervention was associated with reduced IWS and increased intuitive eating, an adaptive eating behavior, and whether these changes correlated with each other or with changes in mindfulness and self-compassion. Methods Participants were stressed adults with low fruit and vegetable intake (N = 78, 64.1% White, M. Body Mass Index 25.59 ± 4.45) enrolled in a parent clinical trial of a 12-week mindful yoga intervention. Validated self-report measures of IWS, intuitive eating, mindfulness, and self-compassion were administered at pre-treatment, mid-treatment (8 weeks), post-treatment (12 weeks), and 4-month follow-up (24 weeks). Results Linear mixed modeling revealed significant improvements in IWS and intuitive eating across the four timepoints (p < .001). Reduced IWS correlated with increased intuitive eating pre- to post-treatment (p = .01). Improved self-compassion and mindfulness correlated with intuitive eating (both p = . 04), but not IWS (p = .74 and p = .56, respectively). Conclusion This study offers preliminary support for the hypothesis that mindful yoga may promote intuitive eating and reduce IWS among stressed adults with poor diet, and suggests that changes in these factors may co-occur over time. Further investigation with controlled designs is necessary to better understand the temporality and causality of these relationships.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02098018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tosca D Braun
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Alpert Medical School of Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA.,Centers for Behavioral and Preventive Medicine, The Miriam Hospital, Providence, RI, USA.,Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Kristen E Riley
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Zachary J Kunicki
- Centers for Behavioral and Preventive Medicine, The Miriam Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Lucy Finkelstein-Fox
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, USA
| | - Lisa A Conboy
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Crystal L Park
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, USA
| | | | - Ana M Abrantes
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Alpert Medical School of Medicine, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA.,Behavioral Medicine and Addictions Research, Butler Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Sara W Lazar
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Psychology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Roncero M, Barrada JR, García-Soriano G, Guillén V. Personality Profile in Orthorexia Nervosa and Healthy Orthorexia. Front Psychol 2021; 12:710604. [PMID: 34594274 PMCID: PMC8477971 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.710604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Little is known about orthorexia in both its pathological (orthorexia nervosa, OrNe) and adaptive (healthy orthorexia, HeOr) forms. To date, few studies have been carried out to analyze the personality profile associated with orthorexia, and the results have been contradictory. The aim of the present study was to explore the characteristic pathological personality traits associated with OrNe and HeOr. A total of 297 participants (Mage = 30.8 years; 94.6% women) from the general population completed the Teruel Orthorexia Scale (TOS) and Personality Inventory for DSM-5-Short Form (PID-5-SF) questionnaires. Results showed significant low-medium correlations between OrNe and the four personality factors (Negative Affectivity, Detachment, Disinhibition, and Psychoticism) (rs range [0.08, 0.36]). In the regression analysis, the predictors of OrNe were Neuroticism and, to a lesser extent, Psychoticism. For HeOr, the associations were lower (rs range [−0.13, 0.05]) and negative, except Psychoticism. Only the relationship with Disinhibition was statistically significant, although after controlling for OrNe, Negative Affectivity and Antagonism also became significant. In the regression analysis, the predictors of HeOr were Disinhibition (negative direction) and Psychoticism (positive direction). The findings show that OrNe is associated with a pathological personality pattern characterized by difficulty in regulating emotions and negative affect (Negative Affectivity), as well as eccentricity, feeling special, and holding beliefs outside the norm (Psychoticism). However, HeOr seems to be related to the tendency toward high responsibility, self-control, the ability to maintain the focus of attention (low Disinhibition), and Psychoticism. Future studies should confirm whether this combination is a key component underlying the development and maintenance of orthorexia.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Roncero
- Departamento de Personalidad, Evaluación y Tratamientos Psicológicos, Facultad de Psicología, Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain
| | - Juan Ramón Barrada
- Departamento de Psicología y Sociología, Universidad de Zaragoza, Teruel, Spain
| | - Gemma García-Soriano
- Departamento de Personalidad, Evaluación y Tratamientos Psicológicos, Facultad de Psicología, Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain
| | - Verónica Guillén
- Departamento de Personalidad, Evaluación y Tratamientos Psicológicos, Facultad de Psicología, Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain
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Schindke C, Gisch UA, Gumz A. [How Should Yoga in Anorexia Nervosa Treatment be Applied? A Qualitative Pilot Study on Yoga Strategies Perceived to be Beneficial from Patients' Perspective]. Psychother Psychosom Med Psychol 2021; 71:446-455. [PMID: 33915583 DOI: 10.1055/a-1390-4450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
An altered interoception is a central correlate of anorexia nervosa (AN) and addressing this issue offers a promising approach in the treatment of AN. First results have shown the effectiveness of yoga as a body-focused intervention in the treatment of AN. However, to date there is a lack of empirical evidence regarding the question how yoga strategies and yoga elements (postures, relaxation, breath, meditation) should be applied. Against this background, we conducted a qualitative pilot study with n=6 female patients with AN undergoing treatment in a specialist unit supporting re-insertion subsequent to a preceding inpatient AN treatment. Study participants received a weekly one-hour hatha-yoga intervention over at least 12 weeks. After the yoga intervention, semi-structured interviews (1/2 to 1 hour) were conducted to assess the experiences of the study participants during the yoga intervention. The data were analyzed using Grounded Theory. At the upper level of analysis, four categories were differentiated: information regarding 1) study participants' symptoms, 2) aspects of the setting experienced to be beneficial, 3) yoga strategies perceived to be beneficial and 4) perceived consequences of yoga strategies. With regard to the yoga strategies perceived to be beneficial, analyses revealed 4 subcategories: features of 1) postures and movements, 2) breath and meditation exercises, 3) relaxation exercises and 4) general information about the setting. The results give first indications regarding the conceptualization of yoga in the treatment of AN and potential mechanisms. Further qualitative and quantitative studies are needed, e.g., with regard to effectiveness, contraindications, mediators or moderators to better evaluate the potential of yoga in the treatment of AN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corinna Schindke
- Professur für Psychosomatik und Psychotherapie, Psychologische Hochschule Berlin, Deutschland.,Therapeutische Wohngemeinschaft Mondlicht, Neues Wohnen im Kiez GmbH, Berlin, Deutschland
| | - Ulrike A Gisch
- Professur für Psychosomatik und Psychotherapie, Psychologische Hochschule Berlin, Deutschland.,Abteilung für Beratungspsychologie, Universität Potsdam, Deutschland
| | - Antje Gumz
- Professur für Psychosomatik und Psychotherapie, Psychologische Hochschule Berlin, Deutschland.,Klinik und Poliklinik für Psychosomatische Medizin und Psychotherapie, Universitätsklinikum Hamburg-Eppendorf, Deutschland
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Strahler J. Trait mindfulness differentiates the interest in healthy diet from orthorexia nervosa. Eat Weight Disord 2021; 26:993-998. [PMID: 32445115 PMCID: PMC8004484 DOI: 10.1007/s40519-020-00927-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Obsessive healthy eating and its extreme form orthorexia nervosa are epidemiologically significant problems. Mindfulness, the focused, non-judgmental attention to and awareness of present events, may be an important psychological contributor to (orthorexic) eating habits. METHODS In this cross-sectional survey-based study, 314 women and 75 men (mean agetotal sample = 27.17 years, SD = 10.64) provided data on mindfulness (Freiburg Mindfulness Inventory, presence and acceptance subscale) and orthorexic eating (Teruel Orthorexia Scale, healthy orthorexia and orthorexia nervosa subscale). RESULTS In this study, we found a positive relation between mindfulness and healthy orthorexia, the non-pathological interest in eating healthy. By contrast, orthorexia nervosa, the pathological obsession with healthy eating, was negatively associated with mindfulness. Gender differences appeared neglectable. CONCLUSION Taken together, these results confirm previous research showing that mindfulness encourages eating healthy and may protect against eating-related pathologies. Result also support the notion that orthorexia has two dimensions, healthy and nervosa, which are differently related to psychological factors, herein mindfulness. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level III, cohort study.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Strahler
- Psychotherapy and Systems Neuroscience, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Otto-Behaghel-Str. 10H, 35394, Giessen, Germany. .,Health Psychology and Applied Diagnostics, Bergische University Wuppertal, Wuppertal, Germany.
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10
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Orthorexia nervosa in yoga practitioners: relationship with personality, attitudes about appearance, and yoga engagement. Eat Weight Disord 2021; 26:789-795. [PMID: 32356144 DOI: 10.1007/s40519-020-00911-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Revised: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Disordered eating symptoms and a high prevalence of orthorexia nervosa can be found in yoga practitioners. Given that yoga is increasingly used as a complementary treatment for eating disorders (ED), understanding the relationship between yoga practice and the development of disordered eating is crucial to guide treatment recommendations. The goal of this work is, therefore, to study the relationships between orthorexia nervosa (ON) and potential risk factors for ON, in an international sample of experienced yoga practitioners. METHOD An online questionnaire that included several psychometric instruments was responded by 469 yoga practitioners. Instruments used were the Teruel orthorexia scale, Yoga immersion scale, Passion scale, Frost multidimensional perfectionism scale, Self-discipline scale of NEO-PI-R, Drive for thinness scale of EDI, and Beliefs about appearance scale. Descriptive statistics, correlational analysis and multiple regression were used to evaluate relationships between ON and the other variables. RESULTS The main predictors of orthorexia nervosa were the drive for thinness and a healthy orthorexia, suggesting that, like in anorexia and bulimia, orthorexic individuals are also concerned with food quantity and physical appearance, rather than just food quality. CONCLUSIONS The potential effects of yoga on eating behaviours and attitudes of long-term practitioners, particularly the high prevalence of orthorexia nervosa and the concern for physical appearance, should be taken into consideration when using yoga as prevention or treatment for eating disorders. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level V, descriptive cross-sectional study.
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Neumark-Sztainer D, Wall MM, Levine A, Barr-Anderson DJ, Eisenberg ME, Larson N. Yoga practice among ethnically/racially diverse emerging adults: Associations with body image, mindful and disordered eating, and muscle-enhancing behaviors. Int J Eat Disord 2021; 54:376-387. [PMID: 33277727 PMCID: PMC8436956 DOI: 10.1002/eat.23421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study explores cross-sectional associations between yoga and body image, mindful eating, disordered eating, and muscle-enhancing behaviors among a population-based sample of ethnically/racially diverse emerging adults. METHOD An ethnically/racially diverse population-based sample of 1,568 emerging adults (18-26 years) completed surveys as part of EAT 2010-2018 (Eating and Activity over Time). Models were adjusted for sociodemographic characteristics and body mass index (BMI). RESULTS Practicing yoga at least 30 min/week was reported by 12.7% (n = 210) of the sample. Yoga practitioners had higher levels of mindful eating than those not practicing yoga. Although effect sizes were small, yoga practitioners were more likely than non-yoga practitioners to use steroids (3.8 vs. 0.7%, p < .001, h = 0.22) or protein powder/shakes (35.1 vs. 25.3%, p < .010, h = 0.21) to increase their muscle size/tone. Body satisfaction, unhealthy weight control behaviors, and binge eating tended to be similar among yoga practitioners and non-yoga practitioners. There was a significant interaction between BMI and yoga in predicting body satisfaction with a trend toward a positive impact among yoga practitioners at higher BMI values. Interactions between yoga practice and all body image attitudes and behaviors across gender and ethnicity/race were not statistically significant. DISCUSSION Young people from diverse ethnic/racial backgrounds who practice yoga are more likely to engage in mindful eating but have equal or elevated levels of unhealthy body image attitudes and behaviors as compared to non-yoga practitioners. Further research should explore how yoga is best taught and practiced to ensure that it is beneficial for body image and related behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dianne Neumark-Sztainer
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Melanie M Wall
- Department of Biostatistics, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York City, New York, USA
| | - Alina Levine
- Mental Health Data Science, Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, New York City, New York, USA
| | | | - Marla E Eisenberg
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Nicole Larson
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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12
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Webb JB, Rogers CB, Thomas EV. Realizing Yoga's all-access pass: a social justice critique of westernized yoga and inclusive embodiment. Eat Disord 2020; 28:349-375. [PMID: 32148179 DOI: 10.1080/10640266.2020.1712636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
In the 21st century, the ancient mind-body practice of yoga has surged in popularity among western enthusiasts for its numerous health benefits. Particularly, a growing evidence base supports yoga for cultivating positive embodiment and reducing risk for disordered eating. Nevertheless, amidst its rise are concerns about yoga's departure from its spiritual foundations and increasing assimilation into the appearance- and commercial-driven exercise and fitness culture. Consequently, an exclusionary identity has been perpetuated in shaping norms surrounding who can and does practice yoga, which contradicts earlier egalitarian visions of a yoga for all. Therefore, we adopt a social justice lens in offering a focused analysis of the intersection of yoga, embodiment, and inclusion for select marginalized social identities typically underrepresented among yoga practitioners and in yoga scholarship. Data are synthesized from both qualitative and quantitative sources and integrate an understanding of how confined media representations of "the yoga body" and other practical constraints may undermine the perceived access to the practice for members of diverse groups. We conclude with inviting future considerations towards fostering more interdisciplinary community-based research partnerships among the variety of stakeholders invested in advancing the accessibility and inclusion of yoga and positive embodiment for all bodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer B Webb
- UNC Charlotte Department of Psychological Science , Charlotte, NC, USA.,UNC Charlotte Health Psychology Ph.D. Program , Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - Courtney B Rogers
- UNC Charlotte Department of Psychological Science , Charlotte, NC, USA.,UNC Charlotte Health Psychology Ph.D. Program , Charlotte, NC, USA
| | - Erin Vinoski Thomas
- Georgia State University School of Public Health, Center for Leadership in Disability , Atlanta, GA, USA
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Abstract
Yoga and its relation to embodiment and disordered eating has only recently received research attention. Nevertheless, early research indicates that yoga is an effective tool in the prevention and treatment of eating disorders. It is assumed that yoga ameliorates eating disorder symptoms and facilitates a shift from negative towards positive body image and well-being by cultivating positive embodiment (i.e., the ability to feel a sense of connection between mind and body). In order to provide the context of the constructs of disordered eating, embodiment, and yoga, this article presents a brief overview and conceptualization of these constructs. The three major eating disorders and current treatment methods are described. Further, the philosophical roots and theoretical models of embodiment are delineated and their communal core features are outlined. Lastly, the origin, basic principles, and modern interpretations of yoga are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris Perey
- Chair of Sport and Health Management, Technical University of Munich , Munich, Germany
| | - Catherine Cook-Cottone
- Department of Counseling, School, and Educational Psychology, University at Buffalo, State University of New York , Albany, USA
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