The Western diet: a blind spot of eating disorder research? - a narrative review and recommendations for treatment and research
Ayton A, Ibrahim A (2020) Nutr Rev 78(7):579-596 doi: 10.1093/nutrit/nuz089
Web URL: Read this research on PubMed
Abstract:
Over the last 50 years, in parallel with the obesity epidemic, the prevalence of eating disorders has increased and presentations have changed. In this narrative review, we consider recent research exploring the implications of changing patterns of food consumption on metabolic and neurobiological pathways, a hitherto neglected area in eating disorder research.One of the major changes over this time has been the introduction of ultra-processed (NOVA-4) foods, which are gradually replacing unprocessed and minimally processed foods.
This has resulted in the increased intake of various sugars and food additives worldwide, which has important metabolic consequences: triggering insulin and glucose response, stimulating appetite, and affecting multiple endocrine and neurobiological pathways, as well as the microbiome.
A paradigm shift is needed in the conceptual framework by which the vulnerability to, and maintenance of, different eating disorders may be understood, by integrating recent knowledge of the individual metabolic responses to modern highly processed foods into existing psychological models. This could stimulate research and improve treatment outcomes.
FAB RESEARCH COMMENT:
This review notes that the marled increases in the prevalence of eating disorders in the last 20 years, and changes in their form and presentation, have both coincided with the increased consumption of ultra-processed foods and drinks (UPF).Standard clinical management of eating disorders primarily involves behavioural and psychological approaches. However, the authors highlight how the metabolic effects of UPF-rich diets may plausibly interact with individual differences in the predisposition to eating disorders that could have implications for their management - and call for more research in this area.
For more articles on this subject, please see the following article lists, which are frequently updated:
Food and Behaviour Research is a registered charity (No SC034604) and a company limited by guarantee (Co No SC 253448)
Newsletter Signup
Useful Links
Contact Us
FAB Research
23 Carlton Road
Oxford
OX2 7SA
Important Notice
Medical opinion and guidance should always be sought for any symptoms that might possibly reflect a known or suspected disease, disorder or medical condition. Information provided on this website (or by FAB Research via any other means) does not in any way constitute advice on the treatment of any medical condition formally diagnosed or otherwise.
Site by Redstone Websites. Easy to Use Web Content Management. 2026 © All Rights Reserved.