Evaluation of Integrative Medicine Supplements for Mitigation of Chronic Insomnia and Constipation in an Inpatient Eating Disorders Setting

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to determine whether patients with eating disorders used fewer conventional sleep and constipation medications when given integrative medicine interventions.DesignRetrospective data from two cohorts were compared; the eating disorder group (ED) received only conventional treatments for insomnia and constipation and the integrative medicine eating disorders group (IMED) received integrative medicine and conventional treatments if needed. Patient reports of insomnia and constipation as well as medication use for these conditions were collected and compared.ResultsPatient demographics were similar in the two groups. Although reports of sleeping well were similar, use of conventional sleep medications was significantly lower for the IMED group. Reports of constipation and use of conventional constipation medications were also lower for IMED versus ED, but these differences were not all statistically significant.ConclusionIntegrative medicine interventions for insomnia and constipation appear to benefit patients with eating disorders and may allow these patients more focus for the work of recovery.