‘Cheat Meals’ Linked to Eating Disorders in Adolescents and Young Adults

‘Cheat Meals’ Linked to Eating Disorders in Adolescents and Young Adults

“A new study published in the Journal of Eating Disorders found that, in course of a year, over half of men, women, and transgender or gender non-conforming participants engaged in at least one “cheat meal”—the practice of deviating from one’s established dietary practices to consume “prohibited” calorie dense meals, only to return to previous dietary practices later.

Among women, engagement in cheat meals in the previous 12 months was associated with all seven types of eating disorder behaviors. Among men it was associated with binge-eating, compulsive exercise, and fasting behaviors. Finally, among transgender or gender non-conforming participants, it was associated with overeating and binge-eating behaviors.

Their findings also revealed that engagement in cheat meals was highest among men. Cheat meals have been conceptualized and promoted within men’s muscle-building and fitness communities. As a result, men in this study may be strategically using cheat meals to catalyze muscle growth. Specifically, men reported consuming foods higher in protein, whereas women consumed dairy, salty, and sweet foods.”

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🌿Discussion: It is important to be aware of the link between cheat meals and eating disorders. Women are especially at risk since cheat meals were linked to 7 types of eating disorder behaviors. So, if you are on a diet and looking forward to a cheat meal, it is important to be cautious of risky behaviors such as binge-eating or overeating.

Importantly, some may find cheat meals beneficial in curtailing such behaviors. It is just important to be aware of your behaviors and how it is affecting you.

🌿Reflection: What has your experience with cheat meals been like? Have you ever found yourself consuming more than usual during cheat meals day?

#Food #Health #EatingDisorders #Adolescents #YoungAdults