Mindfulness-based eating disorder prevention programs: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Publication date: Available online 8 November 2017 Source:Mental Health & Prevention Author(s): Ariel L. Beccia, Corina Dunlap, Douglas A. Hanes, Brendan J. Courneene, Heather L. Zwickey The goal of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the efficacy of mindfulness-based eating disorder prevention programs. Twenty articles met all inclusion and exclusion criteria, including 15 randomized studies (2173 participants) that were included in the meta-analysis. Compared to wait-list controls, mindfulness-based programs were found to significantly reduce participants’ body image concerns and negative affect and improve body appreciation at post-intervention. Compared to cognitive-dissonance programs, mindfulness-based programs were found to significantly improve participants’ self-esteem at post-intervention. There were no significant differences between groups on any other outcome, and no significant differences on any outcome at long-term follow-up. Selective prevention programs and programs that incorporated meditation as the primary intervention type had the largest effect sizes. While the conclusions that can be drawn are limited by both the quantity and quality of available research, results of this review suggest that mindfulness-based eating disorder prevention programs may reduce eating disorder risk factors and increase protective factors.

Source: Mental Health and Prevention - November 9, 2017 Category: Psychiatry Source Type: research