Journal article 247 views 63 downloads
Plant-based recovery from restrictive eating disorder: A qualitative enquiry
Rachael Hunter,
MARINA PLATYGENI,
Emma Moore
Appetite, Volume: 194, Start page: 107137
Swansea University Authors: Rachael Hunter, MARINA PLATYGENI
DOI (Published version): 10.1016/j.appet.2023.107137
Abstract
Plant-based/vegan diets are growing in popularity. There are growing numbers of individuals adopting plant-based diets and there are legitimate concerns from professionals that this can enable food restriction or mask disordered eating. The aim of this study was to examine the role a plant-based die...
| Published in: | Appetite |
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| ISSN: | 0195-6663 |
| Published: |
Elsevier BV
2024
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| Online Access: |
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| URI: | https://cronfa.swan.ac.uk/Record/cronfa65217 |
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| Abstract: |
Plant-based/vegan diets are growing in popularity. There are growing numbers of individuals adopting plant-based diets and there are legitimate concerns from professionals that this can enable food restriction or mask disordered eating. The aim of this study was to examine the role a plant-based diet can play for those in recovery from restrictive eating disorders (anorexia and bulimia nervosa). Methods: Interviews conducted with twelve individuals who identified as having a restrictive eating disorder for which a plant-based diet played/plays an important part in their recovery. Semi-structured interviews explored the individual's lived experiences and motivations of adopting a plant-based diet, and perceptions of the role it played in recovery. Data was transcribed verbatim and analyzed using thematic analysis (Braun & Clarke, 2006). Results: Three key themes with six contributory subthemes were identified. Key themes were plant-based as a gateway to recovery, the changing value of food, and the function of control. Theme content highlighted an evolving role of identity and community, with a shift in meaning and value of food described, and for some, the development of a new relationship with their body. This facilitated a de-coupling of anxieties about food and promoted positive experiences of eating, esteem and empowerment. Conclusions: These findings present a unique insight into the role that plant-based eating may play in recovery for some restrictive eating disorders. The data demonstrated that motivations to control food intake may contribute to the decision to eat plant-based. However, for these individuals it provided a “gateway” to a new more meaningful relationship with food. These findings highlight some of the risks and benefits of eating plant-based in recovery and an important role for health professionals in understanding/supporting individuals during recovery. w/c 280 |
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| Keywords: |
eating disorder; Anorexia nervosa; Bulimia nervosa; Qualitative; Vegan; Plant-based |
| College: |
Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Sciences |
| Funders: |
Swansea University |
| Start Page: |
107137 |