Plant-based recovery from restrictive eating disorder: A qualitative enquiry

Rachael Hunter, Marina Platygeni, Emma Moore

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Objectives: Plant-based/vegan diets are growing in popularity. There are growing numbers of individuals adopting plant-based diets and there are legitimate concerns from professionals that this can enable food restriction or mask disordered eating. The aim of this study was to examine the role a plant-based diet can play for those in recovery from restrictive eating disorders (anorexia and bulimia nervosa). Methods: Interviews conducted with fourteen individuals who identified as having a restrictive eating disorder for which a plant-based diet played/plays an important part in their recovery. Semi-structured interviews explored the individual's lived experiences and motivations of adopting a plant-based diet, and perceptions of the role it played in recovery. Data was transcribed verbatim and analyzed using thematic analysis (Braun & Clarke, 2006). Results: Three key themes with six contributory subthemes were identified. Key themes were plant-based as a gateway to recovery, the changing value of food, and the function of control. Theme content highlighted an evolving role of identity and community, with a shift in meaning and value of food described, and for some, the development of a new relationship with their body. This facilitated a de-coupling of anxieties about food and promoted positive experiences of eating, esteem and empowerment. Conclusions: These findings present a unique insight into the role that plant-based eating may play in recovery for some restrictive eating disorders. The data demonstrated that motivations to control food intake may contribute to the decision to eat plant-based. However, for these individuals it provided a “gateway” to a new more meaningful relationship with food. These findings highlight some of the risks and benefits of eating plant-based in recovery and an important role for health professionals in understanding/supporting individuals during recovery.

Original languageEnglish
Article number107137
JournalAppetite
Volume194
Early online date28 Nov 2023
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Mar 2024

Keywords

  • Anorexia nervosa
  • Bulimia nervosa
  • eating disorder
  • Plant-based
  • Qualitative
  • Vegan

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Psychology
  • Nutrition and Dietetics

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