Link between addictions, eating disorders and obesity
Source : Nutriactis/Rouen-Normandie hospital
Several studies have reported a link between the consumption of addictive substances (alcohol, tobacco, and cannabis) and the onset of an eating disorder (EDs) or obesity. In fact, compared to a control group, the use of such substances in patients with an eating disorder, and more particularly in those suffering from bulimia1. Over 25% of patients with EDs have substance2-related disorders.
- The consumption of alcohol, tobacco or cannabis use induces physiological and psychological and psychological mechanisms common to both and obesity, such as disturbance of appetite and satiety, but preoccupation with food and self-destructive behaviours3.
ALCOHOL
Binge eating and purging behaviours have been associated with excessive alcohol consumption. One study an increased prevalence of symptoms among adolescents treated for alcohol or other substances4.
CANNABIS
There is a link between cannabis use and anxiety disorders (cf. anxiety sheet), bulimia and eating consumption5. In addition, binge eating has been associated with high-risk at-risk consumption of tobacco alcohol and other substances in adolescents suffering from anorexia and bulimia6.
TOBACCO
Smoking can also promote loss of appetite by diminishing olfactory and gustatory olfactory and gustatory sensations, thereby the risk of developing or maintenance of an ED7.
It is therefore essential to screen for and include the various addictions in the management of EDs and obesity.