A Comparative Analysis of Anorexia Nervosa Groups on Facebook.

A comparative analysis of anorexia nervosa groups on Facebook.

Eat Weight Disord. 2013 Jul 27;
Teufel M, Hofer E, Junne F, Sauer H, Zipfel S, Giel KE

To analyze the content and culture of anorexia nervosa (AN)-related communication on the current major social network site (SNS) Facebook.We searched for groups and sites related to AN on Facebook by means of a faux profile of a young female. Identified groups/sites were analyzed with respect to (1) category (education, self-help, professional help, pro-ana, anti pro-ana), (2) activity, (3) motivational aspects (prose, pictures), and (4) social support.Numerous relevant groups were found in all categories except that professional help was almost nonexistent. Pro-ana groups were found to be the most active, best organized, and offered the highest levels of social support. Prose motivation was distinctly offered in all categories. Motivation with pictures was particularly evident in pro-ana groups. The most functional motivation was found in self-help groups.SNS appears to be a relevant way for young females suffering from AN to communicate and exchange disease and health-related ideas. Caregivers, researchers, and institutions in the field of eating disorders should be aware of the existence, possibilities, dysfunctions, and influence of SNS. Whether SNS can help persons with AN to get therapeutic assistance as well as whether it can be integrated into psychotherapeutic strategies should be examined in future studies. HubMed – eating

A case of choking phobia: towards a conceptual approach.

Eat Weight Disord. 2013 Jul 26;
Lopes R, Melo R, Curral R, Coelho R, Roma-Torres A

Choking phobia, also known as phagophobia or swallowing phobia is an uncommon clinical entity that has been underappreciated and is included in the new DSM-5 and upcoming ICD-11 diagnostic category of avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder. Phenomenologically distinct from other eating disorders, it is characterized by the phobic stimulus of swallowing that results in the avoidance of food or drinks, and ultimately to low weight, social withdrawal, anxiety and depression states. Its prevalence and long-term course on the general population still needs to be determined, probably reflecting years of indefiniteness regarding its nosology and by the absence of a clear set of diagnostic criteria. We present a clinical case of choking phobia in a 32-year-old male patient after an episode of choke when eating chicken. An early diagnosis and distinction from other eating disorders is important for proper treatment and fundamental for prognosis. We also make a thorough revision on literature in clinical features, differential diagnosis and treatment approaches, suggesting a conceptual approach for choking phobia as a clinical spectrum settled by different degrees of phobic subtypes, which may depend on a varied number of clinical variables. HubMed – eating

“Obesity paradox” or “metabolically benign obesity”?

Eat Weight Disord. 2013 Jul 26;
Finelli C, Tarantino G

HubMed – eating

Facing Eating Disorders in Midlife
Though typically thought to afflict teenage and young adult women, eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia can strike in midlife — and what’s more, they …