35th AM (2024) - Poster Session-Disordered Eating in Early Recovery from SUD

Disordered Eating in Early Recovery from SUD

Pdf Summary

This research explores the relationship between substance use disorders (SUDs), particularly involving stimulant drugs, and eating behaviors in women during early recovery. It aims to understand how body image and eating patterns may change during this period, which can affect relapse risks. The research highlights that while there is a known link between SUDs and eating disorders, comprehensive studies focusing on weight changes and eating behaviors in early recovery are limited, aside from nicotine use disorder.<br /><br />Key findings from the study include:<br /><br />1. **Prevalence of Eating Disorders in SUD Patients**: An estimated 35% of individuals with SUDs also suffer from eating disorders. Weight loss is a typical effect of stimulant drug use, motivating some to use these drugs.<br /><br />2. **Study Demographics**: The study focuses on women from low socioeconomic backgrounds, many of whom lack access to formal eating disorder treatment. Participants were recruited from Alpha Home, an addiction program in San Antonio.<br /><br />3. **Differences in Eating Disorder Symptoms**: Women recovering from stimulant use exhibit higher EDE-Q (a measure of disordered eating attitudes and beliefs) scores compared to general populations.<br /><br />4. **Weight Changes**: Despite similar BMIs at the start, stimulant users tended to gain more weight over four weeks compared to non-stimulant users. This may relate to the phenomenon of weight overshoot post-drug use or a possible higher BMI set-point among stimulant users, compounded by the use of antipsychotics which are associated with weight gain.<br /><br />5. **Implications for Recovery and Relapse**: Addressing dietary and weight concerns could potentially lower relapse rates by fostering better relationships with food, particularly for stimulant users who may face unique challenges.<br /><br />The ongoing study seeks to inform future interventions that target these challenges to improve recovery outcomes and prevent disordered eating alongside SUD relapse.

Keywords

substance use disorders

stimulant drugs

eating behaviors

early recovery

body image

eating disorders

weight changes

relapse risks

women

socioeconomic backgrounds

	The content on this site is intended solely to inform and educate medical professionals. This site shall not be used for medical advice and is not a substitute for the advice or treatment of a qualified medical professional.		400 Massasoit Avenue Suite 307 East Providence, RI 02914 cmecpd@aaap.org	About Advocacy Membership Fellowship Education and Resources Training Events