Connections between Co-Occurring Symptoms of Eating Disorders, Gut Dysbiosis, Anxiety, and Depression

Eating disorders (ED) are a pervasive mental health condition that puts individuals at risk for long-term physical consequences or even death, and current treatment methods typically do not offer long-term efficacy. The current study aims to examine relationships between co-occurring symptoms of EDs, gastrointestinal distress, anxiety, and depression to add to the scientific literature and point towards directions that may increase the benefits of treatment efforts. A total of 72 participants were asked to complete an online survey that consisted of measures from each variable and took about 20 minutes to finish. Participating individuals had to be at least 18 years old and have had symptoms of EDs, gastrointestinal distress, anxiety, and or depression. Responses from each dimension were evaluated through running Pearson’s correlations and multiple linear regressions tests in IMB SPSS. Additionally, two qualitative questions were included and yielded important themes about EDs and context for the quantitative measures. The qualitative inquiries in this study examined individuals’ perceived relationships between EDs and gut dysbiosis as bidirectional triggers and relationships between spirituality/religion and mental or physical health. Results showed interconnected relationships through a Pearson’s correlation, impactful relationships through multiple linear regression analysis, and insightful qualitative responses that outlined causal, healing, and consequential dynamics between the variables. These findings highlighted the importance of confronting the complicated interconnection of physical, mental, and spiritual factors in ED treatment, establishing the groundwork for holistic and integrative therapeutic approaches.