Physical Activity and Eating Disorders

According to the American Psychiatric Association, an eating disorder is a behavioral condition causing a severe and persistent disturbance in eating behavior, accompanied by distressing thoughts and emotions. Common eating disorders include but are not limited to: anorexia nervosa (AN), bulimia nervosa (BN), and binge-eating disorder (BED).

In many studies conducted, it has been deduced that certain types of physical activity can improve eating disorders and overall mental health. In a 2019 study observing associations between physical activity (PA) and individuals with binge-eating disorder and bulimia nervosa, it was determined that regular engagement in non-compensatory physical activity (activity not intended to control weight or shape) was associated with lower instances of individuals acting on their eating disorders (Kerrigan et al., 2019). It was also found that exercise specifically intended to change your weight or the look of your body (compensatory physical activity) has the opposite effect, producing higher instances of binge-eating and bulimia occurrences. 

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If you or someone you know is suffering from an eating disorder, the following can help you:

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Anad Eating Disorders Helpline

https://anad.org/get-help/eating-disorders-helpline/

1(888)-375-7767

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National Eating Disorders

https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/help-support/contact-helpline

(800)-931-2237