Calories on menus are helpful for those with binge eating disorders

"Food calorie labels on restaurant menus could help people with binge eating disorders and even aid their recovery, a survey has suggested. While it can encourage healthier eating, evidence has shown that people with eating disorders opt for lower-calorie dishes when presented with calorie-labelled menus."

"Researchers at University College London and King's College London found it could be beneficial for people with binge eating disorders. People with eating disorders have a variety of views about calorie labels, but people with binge eating disorder are more likely to find them helpful."

"Most people affected by eating disorders believe the introduction of calories on menus has made their eating disorder symptoms worse. The study, published in BMJ Public Health, involved 1,001 people aged 16 and over who lived in England and had experienced disordered eating."

Calorie labels on restaurant menus were introduced in England in 2022 to combat obesity. While they can promote healthier eating, individuals with eating disorders often choose lower-calorie options. However, research from University College London and King's College London indicates that calorie labels may be beneficial for those with binge eating disorders. Many individuals with eating disorders report that calorie labels worsen their symptoms, but those with binge eating disorders find them more helpful. The study involved 1,001 participants aged 16 and over who had experienced eating disorders.

Read at www.independent.co.uk