Mental health experts say calorie labels on restaurant menus are 'disturbing' for people with eating disorders.
In the first review of its kind, researchers at King's College London found that calorie information triggered problematic thoughts in affected people, with some avoiding restaurants altogether.
These findings come just weeks after a Cochrane analysis found that this anti-obesity mechanism reduced calorie intake by the equivalent of just two almonds, suggesting it may do more harm than good.
Critics said this is another test that "helps no one" and could worsen feelings of anxiety and stress in vulnerable people.
What did the study show?
The researchers analyzed 16 studies with over 8,000 participants from the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada and Saudi Arabia, countries that have similar calorie labeling systems.
They found that for the general population, labels had little impact, but those with eating disorders changed their behavior when faced with calorie-laden menus.
Some chose foods with fewer calories, while others said these labels reinforced their beliefs about eating disorders.
The authors write:
“The changes in behavior and impact on eating pathology are not observed in the general population, but are specific to those with eating disorders.”
The review found evidence that there is a “justified concern about negative impacts,” particularly for those with restrictive eating disorders.
However, few studies have focused specifically on individuals with eating disorders and the broader impacts on mental health have not yet been sufficiently studied, according to data published in BMJ Public Health.
Experts call for policy review
Dr. Tom Jewell, lecturer in mental health at King's College London, said:
"Our study highlights that people with experience of eating disorders feel excluded from the discussion about calorie labeling."
"Finding a balance between the positive and harmful impacts of calorie labeling on menus is essential in public health policies."
“Policymakers should consider the impact on both obesity and eating disorders when making decisions about food labeling.”
The calorie labeling measure was introduced by the government in 2022 for restaurants, takeaways, and cafes with more than 250 employees.
What do mental health organizations say?
Tom Quinn, from the eating disorder organization Beat, said eating out was an important part of recovery and that the calories on the menu could prolong the illness in those affected.
"This study adds to the evidence that calorie labeling on menus doesn't help anyone," he said.
“People with eating disorders are harmed, while for the general population the benefits are so small that it cannot be justified as an effective health policy.”
"For those with eating disorders, calorie labeling can exacerbate anxiety and stress, as well as lead to harmful behaviors such as overeating, overexercising, or extreme food restriction." /Express newspaper/
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