Work

Provider‐Prescribed Restrictive Diets in Patients With Eating Disorders Presenting for Gastroenterology Care

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Despite considerable evidence and patient demand, restrictive diets for gastrointestinal (GI) disorders may be harmful in those with comorbid eating disorders (EDs). We identified the frequency and characteristics of provider-recommended restrictive diets among those with EDs seeking GI care. METHODS: Using a preexisting cohort of patients who had a GI encounter from 2010 to 2020 with a GI diagnosis and ED diagnosis (either diagnosed before or after initial GI encounter), we conducted a retrospective analysis of restrictive diet prescriptions within 12 months of initial GI consult as well as diet type, provider subspecialty, and types of ED and GI diagnoses. RESULTS: From a cohort of 610 patients, we found 285 patients meeting our inclusion criteria; 50 (17.5%) were prescribed restrictive diets within 12 months of their GI consult by GI providers. Disorders of gut-brain interaction were the most common GI diagnoses overall (n = 169, 59.3%). Of those with a pre-existing ED (n = 188), 30 (16.0%) were prescribed a restrictive diet, and of those with a subsequently diagnosed ED (n = 97), 20 (20.6%) were prescribed a restrictive diet. Among patients with preexisting EDs, 69 (36.7%) were not in remission at the time of consultation. Of those with preexisting EDs who were prescribed a restrictive diet, 17/30 (57.7%) were not in remission. CONCLUSION: We found that 16% of patients with an ED history were prescribed a restrictive diet by their gastroenterologist, including those not in remission. Further research is needed on the potential risk of restrictive diets in facilitating ED behavior.

Source: Neurogastroenterology & Motility

DOI: 10.1111/nmo.70397