Deakin University
Browse

Identifying factors that predict the onset and persistence of fasting for weight control: Prospective findings

Download (404.08 kB)
Version 4 2025-05-14, 05:24
Version 3 2025-05-14, 05:24
Version 2 2024-06-20, 05:51
Version 1 2024-06-20, 05:50
journal contribution
posted on 2025-05-14, 05:24 authored by Jake LinardonJake Linardon
AbstractObjectiveFasting for weight control is an under‐studied behaviour implicated in eating disorders. However, little is known about what factors account for its onset and persistence.MethodThis study sought to identify risk and maintenance factors for fasting among 1025 women recruited through an eating disorder self‐help platform who completed study measures at baseline and 6 month follow‐up. Univariate and multivariate logistic regressions were performed to test which variables at baseline predicted the onset (vs. stably asymptomatic) and persistence (vs. remission) of fasting at follow‐up.ResultsUnivariate models showed that higher baseline overvaluation, dissatisfaction, fear of weight gain, generalised and social anxiety, depression, self‐esteem deficits and eating disorder symptoms (inflexible eating rules, driven exercise) predicted greater likelihood of fasting onset. Only fear of weight gain and depressive symptoms remained significant in the multivariate model. Higher baseline overvaluation, fear of weight gain, driven exercise, inflexible eating rules, and depression predicted greater likelihood of fasting persistence in univariate models. An adherence to inflexible eating rules and overvaluation remained significant in the multivariate model.ConclusionFindings shed new light on factors that may account for the development and maintenance of fasting, which have implications for guiding effective interventions targeting this behaviour.

History

Journal

European Eating Disorders Review

Volume

32

Pagination

1016-1025

Location

London, Eng.

Open access

  • Yes

ISSN

1072-4133

eISSN

1099-0968

Language

eng

Publication classification

C1 Refereed article in a scholarly journal

Issue

5

Publisher

Wiley

Usage metrics

    Research Publications

    Licence

    Exports

    RefWorks
    BibTeX
    Ref. manager
    Endnote
    DataCite
    NLM
    DC