Yoga as a treatment for binge eating disorder: A preliminary study

SummaryObjectiveTo examine the efficacy of a 12-week yoga program aimed at reducing binge eating severity.DesignA 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.ParticipantsA 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.Main outcome measuresPrimary outcomes included the Binge Eating Scale (BES) and International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Secondary outcomes comprised measures for BMI, hips and waist.ResultsFor 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.ConclusionIn conjunction with formal weekly sessions, home-based yoga programs are potentially efficacious for the treatment of binge eating.