The ethics of exercise in eating disorders: Can an ethical principles approach guide the next generation of research and clinical practice?

Eating disorders (ED) are the most common psychiatric disorders afflicting young women and contribute to great detriments in psychological, social, and physical health. Unfortunately, ED treatments tend to be long lasting, intensive, and expensive. Additionally, individuals with ED seeking treatment use healthcare services more frequently than non-ED individuals, thereby placing an added burden on the healthcare system. The severe nature of ED, high cost of treatment, and added healthcare burden provide rational support for examining efficacious, easily disseminated, innovative, and cost-effective ED interventions that may improve treatment outcomes.