title: An association between eating disorder behaviors and autonomic dysfunction in a nonclinical population. A pilot study.
abstract: This pilot study examines the relationship between eating disorder behaviors and autonomic dysfunction in a nonclinical sample (n = 27). Baseline indices of eating disorder behaviors were evaluated via the Eating Disorder Examination-Questionnaire. Supine resting heart rate variability was assessed via electrocardiogram for a 5-min recording period. A spectral analysis was performed. High frequency power density (s2/Hz) increased as a function of heightened disordered eating behaviors. Autonomic dysfunction, as indicated by increased high frequency power density due to hypervagal activity, is associated with eating disorder behaviors. Results suggest autonomic dysfunction may exist in nonclinical eating disorder populations. Future research needs to further examine this possibility.
authors.affiliation: Eating Behaviors and Body Dissatisfaction Research Laboratory, Cornell College, Department of Psychology, 600 First Street West, Mt. Vernon, IA 52314, USA. mgreen@cornellcollege.edu
authors.forename: Melinda A
authors.initials: MA
authors.lastname: Green
authors.forename: Jada J
authors.initials: JJ
authors.lastname: Hallengren
authors.forename: Christopher M
authors.initials: CM
authors.lastname: Davids
authors.forename: Cori M
authors.initials: CM
authors.lastname: Riopel
authors.forename: Anna K
authors.initials: AK
authors.lastname: Skaggs
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001342:Autonomic Nervous System Diseases / Q000150:complications* / Q000503:physiopathology; D015992:Body Mass Index; D004562:Electrocardiography; D015444:Exercise / Q000502:physiology; D001068:Feeding and Eating Disorders / Q000150:complications* / Q000503:physiopathology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010865:Pilot Projects; D012727:Sex Characteristics; D014630:Vagus Nerve / Q000503:physiopathology