From Across the Desk
In this issue, several articles point out ways to improve patients’ access to care, including a new algorithm measuring readiness for change and Web programs to encourage patients to go beyond the…
Update: Very Early Clues to Later Eating Disorders
Until recently there were few ways to identify children at risk for developing eating disorders later in life. Now, results of a recent study show that body mass index and growth patterns…
Taking Another Look at Pharmacotherapy for Anorexia Nervosa
A multi-site study showed promising results. Nutritional rehabilitation and psychotherapy are the mainstays of anorexia nervosa (AN) treatment. In contrast, medications are widely regarded as of little value in AN, either for…
Long-term Effects of Anorexia Nervosa on Bone Health
Changes were traced after 5 and 10 years of recovery. Interference with bone development and attaining peak bone mass and peak bone strength can have dramatic effects on development of osteoporosis and…
Measuring Recovery
A new questionnaire seeks to define recovery from an eating disorder among patients, family, and clinicians. Defining recovery from an eating disorder is critical for clinical and research purposes. Dr. Rachel Bachner-Melman…
Comparing Objective and Subjective Binge Eating
A combination of the two types of binge eating led to higher BMIs. Episodes of objective binge eating (OBE) are among the core diagnostic criteria for bulimia nervosa and binge eating…
Total Body Fat Percentage and Return of Menses in Anorexia Nervosa
A simple test was helpful for defining balanced return of menses. Return of menses is commonly viewed as a sign of improving health for people with AN. A team of Israeli clinicians…
Is Yoga Beneficial for Eating Disorders Patients?
A Norwegian study investigates a little-studied area. Could regular sessions of yoga be beneficial to patients with eating disorders? Psychologist Kari Ebbesen Karlsen and collaborators at the University of Norway, Helgeland Hospital,…
Two Web-based Programs Aim to Help Improve Attendance and to Aid Caregivers
Early results are mixed, but hopeful. The world-wide Web has delivered information and education to homes and offices around the world. Two new Web-based programs in Germany and the United Kingdom have…
Matching Patients to the Most Appropriate and Cost-effective Care
An algorithm is designed to assess readiness for change. Eating disorder treatment occurs in a variety of settings, and determining the appropriate level of care is a key clinical decision. Treatment guidelines…
Q&A: Yoga: Useful in Treatment for Eating Disorders?
Q. I’ve read many articles about the benefits of moderate and supervised exercise for patients with eating disorders. One of my patients, who has a history of bulimia nervosa (BN), has asked…
Level of Care Considerations for Severe and Extreme Eating Disorders
by Jeana J. Cost, MS, LPC, CEDS, and Philip S. Mehler, MD, FACP, FAED, CEDS Eating Recovery Center, Denver, Colorado Determining what level of care a patient with an eating disorder needs…