Yoga as a treatment for binge eating disorder: a preliminary study.
OBJECTIVE
To examine the efficacy of a 12-week yoga program aimed at reducing binge eating severity.


METHODS
A randomised trial was undertaken assigning participants to yoga (n=45) or wait-list control (n=45) groups. Of these, 25 in each group were analysed.


METHODS
A community-based sample of women between 25 and 63 years of age who identified with diagnostic criteria for binge eating disorder (BED) and a BMI>25 were recruited for the study.


METHODS
Primary outcomes included the Binge Eating Scale (BES) and International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Secondary outcomes comprised measures for BMI, hips and waist.


RESULTS
For the yoga group, self-reported reductions in binge eating and increases in physical activity were statistically significant. Small yet statistically significant reductions for BMI, hips and waist measurement were obtained. The wait-list control group did not improve significantly on any measures.


CONCLUSIONS
In conjunction with formal weekly sessions, home-based yoga programs are potentially efficacious for the treatment of binge eating.
McIver
Shane
S
School of Health and Social Development, Faculty of Health, Medicine, Nursing and Behavioural Sciences, Deakin University, 221 Burwood Highway, Burwood, Victoria 3125, Australia. shane.mciver@deakin.edu.au
O'Halloran
Paul
P
McGartland
Michael
M
D000328:Adult; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D015992:Body Mass Index; D052018:Bulimia Nervosa / Q000150:complications / Q000628:therapy*; D015444:Exercise; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D050177:Overweight / Q000150:complications / Q000628:therapy; D055105:Waist Circumference; D015013:Yoga