The Fitter I Am, the Larger I Feel-The Vicious Circle of Physical Exercise in Anorexia Nervosa.

ABSTRACT: Introduction: Body image distortion is a core symptom of anorexia nervosa (AN), embodying dissatisfaction and overvaluation of body appearance and weight. Body image distortion is an important factor in the maintenance of weight loss behaviours such as compulsive physical exercise. Conversely, physical exercise seems to have an aggravating effect on body image in patients with AN, but the evidence is still poor. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between body image distortion and physical exercise in AN in order to understand whether physical exercise may play a specific role in body image distortion beyond psychopathological severity. Methods: Forty patients with AN and 21 healthy controls were tested for body image distortion and different proxies of physical exercise.

SUBMITTER: Di Lodovico L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9657677 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature