Hidden Weight-Loss Habits Are Being Ignored
A new study by researchers at the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience (IoPPN) at King’s College London has found that many weight-loss behaviors commonly used by people with eating disorders are not recognized in current diagnostic tools. These overlooked behaviors could lead to missed or inaccurate diagnoses and, ultimately, inappropriate treatment plans.
The First Large-Scale Study of Its Kind
Published in the International Journal of Eating Disorders, this is the first major study to examine under-recognized weight-control practices among individuals with eating disorders. The research analyzed responses from 1,675 people diagnosed with anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, or binge-eating disorder. These participants were part of two large UK-based studies—EDGI UK and GLAD—which focus on eating disorders, anxiety, and depression.
Text Mining Uncovers New Insights
Using advanced text mining techniques, researchers examined more than 3,000 words and phrases from open-ended questionnaire responses. These responses revealed a wide range of behaviors that people use to manage or reduce their weight—many of which are not included in current clinical assessment tools.
Some behaviors were relatively common, like dietary restriction, while others were more extreme or unusual. However, these practices often go unnoticed because current tools only ask about well-known symptoms. Patients may also hide certain behaviors due to feelings of shame, guilt, or fear of stigma.
Why This Matters
This oversight can significantly impact how individuals are diagnosed and treated. According to the research team, a more inclusive and detailed assessment approach is urgently needed. By expanding the list of recognized behaviors, clinicians can better identify eating disorders early and offer more personalized care.
Dr. Saakshi Kakar, lead author and PhD student at the IoPPN, said:
“Weight-loss behaviors evolve with time. New trends, myths about health, or easier access to certain products can influence how people try to control their weight. Our assessments need to evolve too.”
Experts Call for Broader Diagnostic Criteria
Dr. Karina Allen, Consultant Clinical Psychologist, added that eating disorders don’t look the same for everyone:
“Some people might follow very different patterns of behavior that current tests fail to pick up. We need broader tools that reflect this diversity.”
Dr. Moritz Herle, joint senior author of the study, also emphasized the need for change:
“Not everyone with an eating disorder matches the textbook definition. This study shows we must look beyond the usual symptoms to ensure no one is overlooked.”
Binge-Eating Disorder: An Overlooked Case
One important finding was that many people with binge-eating disorder reported using weight-loss strategies but these behaviors are not always acknowledged in diagnostic guidelines. In fact, 81 participants openly shared their personal experiences with these behaviors, suggesting that a more flexible, symptom-based model could better capture the real-life experiences of those affected.
Dr. Christopher Hübel, joint senior author and psychiatry resident in Berlin, explained:
“These individuals may not fit neatly into existing categories. A more adaptable approach would help us recognize their struggles and offer the right support.”
The Role of Carers and Lived Experience
Suzanne Baker, a representative from F.E.A.S.T. (Families Empowered and Supporting Treatment of Eating Disorders), praised the study for including insights from real-life experiences:
“As family members and caregivers, we often witness a range of behaviors not reflected in standard assessments. Recognizing these differences is vital for effective and timely treatment.”
Conclusion
While this research sheds light on important gaps, the study sample lacked diversity—around 95% of participants were women and 94% were white. The EDGI UK and GLAD teams are actively working to increase representation in future research.
By updating diagnostic tools and involving people with lived experience, the medical community can move toward more accurate diagnoses and better treatment options for everyone affected by eating disorders.
Source: Inputs from various media Sources
Priya Bairagi
Reviewed by Dr Aarti Nehra (MBBS, MMST)
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
