Effects of Physical Activity on Disordered Eating Behaviours in Individuals With a Psychotic Disorder

Aim: This study aims to determine the effect of physical activity on cognitive restraint, uncontrolled eating and emotional eating in individuals with a psychotic disorder.

Methods: Twenty-seven participants with a psychotic disorder (55% male; mean age: 30 ± 7.5 years; Caucasian: 66.7%; schizophrenia spectrum disorders: 44.4%; bipolar disorder with psychotic features: 29.6%) took part in a 6-month bi-weekly physical activity program (walking, running, yoga, cycling and dancing). The Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire was used to assess participant's eating behaviours, and the frequency of completed physical activity sessions was compiled.

Results: The mixed models analysis approach revealed that the level of cognitive restraint remained unchanged (pre: 39.2 ± 18.7 vs. post: 44.1 ± 18.3; p = 0.24), while the levels of uncontrolled eating (pre: 39.7 ± 19 vs. post: 31.6 ± 19.7; p = 0.02) and emotional eating (pre: 45.5 ± 22.3 vs. post: 32.2 ± 22.2; p < 0.001) decreased at the end of the 6-month physical activity program.

Discussion: This study showed that physical activity has positive effects on disordered eating behaviours in individuals with a psychotic disorder, similarly to previous studies on other populations (e.g., overweight and obese participants, postmenopausal women).

Conclusion: Further studies are warranted to better understand the role of physical activity in moderating eating behaviours.