Body image facets as predictors of muscularity-oriented disordered eating in women: Findings from a prospective study

Muscularity-oriented disordered eating (MODE) is becoming increasingly common among women and is characterized by dietary alterations (e.g., blending meals into liquid form to increase caloric intake) aimed towards gaining lean muscle. In light of the mental health risks associated with these pathological eating behaviors, understanding factors that influence women’s engagement in MODE is essential for preventative efforts and for informing etiological models. Body image is a possible factor that may influence MODE in light of evidence of cross-sectional associations and its importance as a key risk factor for thinness-oriented disordered eating. However, research is yet to test for prospective relationships between the various components of body image (i.e., body dissatisfaction, body appreciation) and MODE, which was the aim of this study. Adult women completed the online study measures at baseline (Time 1 [T1]; n = 1760) and three-month follow-up (Time 2 [T2]; n = 1208). A series of univariate regressions revealed that all body image facets (i.e., preoccupation, overvaluation, dissatisfaction, body image appreciation and feeling fat) at T1 significantly predicted MODE at T2. However, multivariable models revealed that only preoccupation and body appreciation uniquely predicted MODE at T2, with a positive relationship observed for preoccupation and a negative one for body appreciation. This is the first study to establish temporal relationships between distinct body image facets and MODE. Pending replication, findings highlight possible targets for addressing MODE in women.