Dr Kirrilly Pursey
Lecturer- Nutrition and Dietetics
School of Health Sciences
Filling the Gaps: the Evidence of Food Addiction
The concept of food addiction has had a controversial history. Despite the documentation of the condition in many animal models, evidence for the condition in humans is still lacking.
“There’s quite a lot of overlap in the diagnosis of binge eating disorder and the current ‘diagnostic’ techniques we use for food addiction,” says food-addiction researcher and Accredited Practising Dietitian, Dr Kirrilly Pursey.
“But there are some people who seem to display a distinct addictive-like phenotype, and we want to find out more about this.”
Improving care, improving outcomes
With Kirrilly’s PhD research, she is working to optimise treatment outcomes for patients with these addictive-like behaviours. With an improved definition of what food addiction looks like, patients could be better ‘diagnosed’ and treated.
“That's where I would really like to see to progress in the food addiction field.”
One of the major gaps in the evidence base surrounding food addiction had been around the types of foods which provoke these addictive behaviours.
“We wanted to know whether specific foods could elicit the same sort of reactions as addictive substances like drugs and alcohol. So we looked for similar behaviours and at the activation of parts of the brain that drive the addictive process.”
Behaviours and attitudes towards food
Kirrilly worked alongside nutrition researcher, Dr Tracy Burrows, and MRI researcher, Associate Professor Peter Stanwell to examine changes in brain metabolism induced by ‘junk foods’ and ‘healthy foods’. Kirrilly worked with the same team throughout her Honours project, where she looked for changes that occur in brain chemistry following the consumption of energy drinks.
For her PhD project, Kirrilly also looked at attitudes and behaviours around food using the Yale Food Addiction scale and the Australian Eating Survey, developed by UON’s leading nutrition researcher, Professor Clare Collins.
“We conducted a survey to figure out what kind of foods are associated with these addictive behaviours and we found that it tended to be high sugar, high fat foods in particular.
“We also found that when we compared different studies, the people who had higher food addiction scores were those who were overweight or obese.”
Seeking out advice from across the globe
One of the major highlights of Kirrilly’s project was being awarded an HMRI Jennie Thomas Travel Scholarship. She flew all over North America visiting the researchers whose work she had been immersed in throughout her research.
Her trip included a visit to Assistant Professor Ashley Gearhardt, who developed the Yale Food Addiction Scale which had been so central to Kirrilly’s studies.
“She was so incredibly passionate about what she was doing."
“It was exciting and surreal to meet the researchers that you've read about.”
Meeting with these researchers also gave Kirrilly a new perspective on her work.
“They were all psychologists – when I went into this field as a dietitian, I thought it was going to be all about food and the chemicals in the food."
“Now I realise it’s completely multi-disciplinary. Once we can understand and define food addiction, treating it will be entirely multidisciplinary too.”
Combining research with clinical practise
Kirrilly maintains her clinical presence whilst working on her research projects.
“It's definitely beneficial being involved with both clinical and research practise, because what's the point in coming up with an answer to a research question if you can’t apply it to clinical situations?"
“I think when you work clinically you get a feel for what's going to work and what's not going to work, so it's a good way to know how these things are going to translate into practice. Sometimes when I talk to my patients they’ll say things like, ‘I'm addicted to lollies,’ or, ‘I'm craving chocolate,’ and the researcher side of my brain just goes, ‘I wish I could find out why you think these kinds of things!"
“But then at the same time it also makes you realise - I'm doing this research because hopefully it's going to help someone to have a more positive relationship with food.”
Filling the Gaps: the Evidence of Food Addiction
Dr Kirrilly Pursey is working to optimise treatment outcomes for patients who display addictive-like behaviours toward food.
Career Summary
Biography
Dr Kirrilly Pursey is an early career researcher and currently holds a lecturing position within the School of Health Sciences at the University of Newcastle. Kirrilly was awarded her PhD in 2016 with her thesis exploring the neurobiological underpinnings of compulsive overeating. Her current research focuses on a range of disordered eating behaviours, particularly in children and adolescents. Kirrilly has experience in the development, implementation and evaluation of innovative models of care within the Local Health District as well as the delivery of workforce development and training to clinicians. She is an Accredited Practising Dietitian and has extensive dietetic experience across inpatient and community settings.
Qualifications
- Doctor of Philosophy, University of Newcastle
- Bachelor of Nutrition and Dietetics, University of Newcastle
- Bachelor of Nutrition and Dietetics (Honours), University of Newcastle
Keywords
- Nutrition and Dietetics
Fields of Research
Code | Description | Percentage |
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321001 | Clinical nutrition | 100 |
Professional Experience
UON Appointment
Title | Organisation / Department |
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Lecturer- Nutrition and Dietetics | University of Newcastle School of Health Sciences Australia |
Awards
Award
Year | Award |
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2015 |
Best Poster Presentation, Annual Scientific Meeting, Wellington, NZ Nutrition Society of Australia |
2014 |
Research Higher Degree Student Publication Award University of Newcastle - School of Health Sciences |
2013 |
Research Higher Degree Student Best Confirmation Award University of Newcastle - School of Health Sciences |
2012 |
Vice Chancellors Award for Outstanding Candidates The University of Newcastle |
2012 |
University Medal, Nutrition and Dietetics University of Newcastle |
Research Award
Year | Award |
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2016 |
Greaves Family Early Career Researcher Grant Hunter Medical Research Institute |
2014 |
Jennie Thomas Travel Grant Hunter Medical Research Institute |
Scholarship
Year | Award |
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2014 |
Neville Eric Sansom Diabetes Scholarship The University of Newcastle |
2013 |
Hunter Valley Research Foundation Robin McDonald Scholarship Hunter Valley Research Foundation |
2012 |
Australian Postgraduate Award The University of Newcastle |
2011 |
Deputy Vice Chancellor Honours Research Scholarship The University of Newcastle |
2010 |
Summer Vacation Scholarship University of Newcastle - School of Health Sciences |
2010 |
Rural Allied Health Undergraduate Scholarship NSW Health |
2007 |
David Beer Scholarship The University of Newcastle |
Teaching
Code | Course | Role | Duration |
---|---|---|---|
NUDI3220 |
Clinical Nutrition 1 University of Newcastle - School of Health Sciences |
Tutor | 1/2/2018 - 30/6/2018 |
HLSC1220 |
Food Science 1 The University of Newcastle - Faculty of Health and Medicine |
Tutor | 22/7/2013 - 4/11/2016 |
HLSC1220 |
Food Science 1 The University of Newcastle - Faculty of Health and Medicine |
Lecturer | 18/7/2016 - 2/12/2016 |
NUDI4290 |
Paediatric Nutrition and Diet School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle |
Lecturer | 3/2/2020 - 30/6/2020 |
Publications
For publications that are currently unpublished or in-press, details are shown in italics.
Chapter (2 outputs)
Year | Citation | Altmetrics | Link | ||
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2023 | McMaster C, Franklin J, Hart M, Matthews-Rensch K, Pursey K, Hart S, 'The Role of the Dietitian', Eating Disorders, Springer Nature, Switzerland (2023) | ||||
2023 |
McMaster CM, Franklin J, Hart M, Matthews-Rensch K, Pursey K, Hart S, 'The Role of the Dietitian: Treatment of Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, and Binge Eating Disorder', Eating Disorders: Volume 1,2 385-410 (2023) Current clinical practice guidelines support a multidisciplinary treatment approach to ensure individuals with eating disorders have access to medical, dietetic, and psychological... [more] Current clinical practice guidelines support a multidisciplinary treatment approach to ensure individuals with eating disorders have access to medical, dietetic, and psychological interventions to maximize their chances of recovery. Dietitians play a key role in the treatment of eating disorders by assessing the severity of malnutrition, disordered eating patterns, and knowledge and skill deficits that prevent achievement and maintenance of optimum nutrition. Moreover, dietitians collaboratively develop individually tailored nutrition care plans which (1) address nutritional deficiencies and promote optimal nutritional status, (2) emphasize the role of adequate nutrition in addressing patients¿ individual and mental well-being, and (3) provide nutrition education to challenge inaccurate beliefs about food and eating. This chapter provides an overview of nutrition assessment and intervention for individuals with eating disorders broadly, as well as specific dietetic treatment considerations for individuals with anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder.
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Journal article (38 outputs)
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2024 |
Pursey K, Babicola L, Ventura R, Di Segni M, 'Editorial: Dysfunctional motivation in eating behaviors: a complex gene x environment interplay.', Front Behav Neurosci, 18 1367256 (2024)
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2024 |
Skinner JA, Leary M, Whatnall M, Collins RA, Pursey KM, Verdejo-Garcia A, et al., 'A three-arm randomised controlled trial of a telehealth intervention targeting improvement in addictive eating for Australian adults (the TRACE program).', Appetite, 195 107211 (2024) [C1]
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2024 |
Pursey KM, Yokum S, Brain K, Burrows T, 'Neural Responses in Addictive Eating: a Systematic Review', CURRENT ADDICTION REPORTS, [C1]
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2024 |
Hart M, Hirneth S, Mendelson J, Jenkins L, Pursey K, Waller G, 'Brief cognitive behavioural therapy for eating disorders symptomatology among a mixed sample of adolescents and young adults in primary care: A non-randomised feasibility and pilot study.', Eur Eat Disord Rev, (2024) [C1]
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2022 |
Whatnall M, Clarke E, Collins CE, Pursey K, Burrows T, 'Ultra-processed food intakes associated with 'food addiction' in young adults', APPETITE, 178 (2022) [C1]
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2022 |
Leary M, Pursey K, Verdejo-García A, Skinner J, Whatnall MC, Hay P, et al., 'Designing an online intervention for adults with addictive eating: a qualitative integrated knowledge translation approach', BMJ Open, 12 (2022) [C1] Introduction Codesign is a meaningful end-user engagement in research design. The integrated knowledge translation (IKT) framework involves adopting a collaborative research appro... [more] Introduction Codesign is a meaningful end-user engagement in research design. The integrated knowledge translation (IKT) framework involves adopting a collaborative research approach to produce and apply knowledge to address real-world needs, resulting in useful and useable recommendations that will more likely be applied in policy and practice. In the field of food addiction (FA), there are limited treatment options that have been reported to show improvements in FA symptoms. Objectives The primary aim of this paper is to describe the step-by-step codesign and refinement of a complex intervention delivered via telehealth for adults with FA using an IKT approach. The secondary aim is to describe our intervention in detail according to the TIDieR checklist. Design This study applies the IKT process and describes the codesign and refinement of an intervention through a series of online meetings, workshops and interviews. Participants This study included researchers, clinicians, consumers and health professionals. Primary outcome measure The primary outcome was a refined intervention for use in adults with symptoms of FA for a research trial. Results A total of six female health professionals and five consumers (n=4 female) with lived overeating experience participated in two interviews lasting 60 min each. This process resulted in the identification of eight barriers and three facilitators to providing and receiving treatment for FA, eight components needed or missing from current treatments, telehealth as a feasible delivery platform, and refinement of key elements to ensure the intervention met the needs of both health professionals and possible patients. Conclusion Using an IKT approach allowed for a range of viewpoints and enabled multiple professions and disciplines to engage in a semiformalised way to bring expertise to formulate a possible intervention for FA. Mapping the intervention plan to the TIDieR checklist for complex interventions, allowed for detailed description of the intervention and the identification of a number of areas that needed to be refined before development of the finalised intervention protocol.
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2022 |
Pursey KM, Hart M, Hure A, Cheung HM, Ong L, Burrows TL, Yager Z, 'The Needs of School Professionals for Eating Disorder Prevention in Australian Schools: A Mixed-Methods Survey', CHILDREN-BASEL, 9 (2022) [C1]
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2022 |
Mingay E, Hart M, Yoong S, Palazzi K, D'Arcy E, Pursey KM, Hure A, 'The Impact of Modifying Food Service Practices in Secondary Schools Providing a Routine Meal Service on Student's Food Behaviours, Health and Dining Experience: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis', NUTRIENTS, 14 (2022) [C1]
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2022 |
Pursey KM, Skinner J, Leary M, Burrows T, 'The relationship between addictive eating and dietary intake: A systematic review', Nutrients, 14 (2022) [C1] (1) Background: Research suggests that certain foods may have addictive effects; however, no reviews have systematically appraised studies in this area. The aims of this review we... [more] (1) Background: Research suggests that certain foods may have addictive effects; however, no reviews have systematically appraised studies in this area. The aims of this review were to determine the nutrients, foods and dietary patterns associated with addictive eating. (2) Methods: Published studies up to November 2020 were identified through searches of 6 electronic databases. Eligible studies included those in in children and adults that reported dietary intakes of individuals with ¿food addiction¿. (3) Results: Fifteen studies (n = 12 in adults and n = 3 in children/adolescents with Yale Food Addiction Scale defined ¿food addiction¿) were included. Foods commonly associated with addictive eating were those high in a combination of fat and refined carbohydrates. Generally, intakes of energy, carbohydrates and fats were significantly higher in individuals with addictive eating compared to those without. (4) Conclusions: Due to the heterogeneity in study methodologies and outcomes across included studies, it is difficult to conclude if any specific foods, nutrients or dietary patterns facilitate an addictive process. Further research is needed to elucidate potential associations. However, present addictive eating treatment approaches could incorporate individualised dietary advice targeting foods high in fat and refined carbohydrates.
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2022 |
Leary M, Pursey KM, Verdejo-Garcia A, Smout S, McBride N, Osman B, et al., 'Socio-Demographic, Self-Control, Bullying, Parenting, and Sleep as Proximal Factors Associated with Food Addiction among Adolescents', BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES, 12 (2022) [C1]
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2021 |
Leary M, Pursey KM, Verdejo-Garcia A, Burrows TL, 'Current Intervention Treatments for Food Addiction: A Systematic Review', BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES, 11 (2021) [C1]
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2021 |
Whatnall MC, Skinner J, Pursey K, Brain K, Collins R, Hutchesson MJ, Burrows TL, 'Efficacy of dietary interventions in individuals with substance use disorders for illicit substances or illicit use of pharmaceutical substances: A systematic review', JOURNAL OF HUMAN NUTRITION AND DIETETICS, 34 981-993 (2021) [C1]
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2021 |
Pursey KM, Collins R, Skinner J, Burrows TL, 'Characteristics of individuals seeking addictive eating treatment', EATING AND WEIGHT DISORDERS-STUDIES ON ANOREXIA BULIMIA AND OBESITY, 26 2779-2786 (2021) [C1]
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2021 |
Bennett C, Burrows T, Pursey K, Poudel G, Ng KW, Nguo K, et al., 'Neural responses to food cues in middle to older aged adults: a scoping review of fMRI studies', Nutrition and Dietetics, 78 343-364 (2021) [C1] Aim: Understanding neural responses through functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to food and food cues in middle-older adults may lead to better treatment options to addre... [more] Aim: Understanding neural responses through functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to food and food cues in middle-older adults may lead to better treatment options to address the growing issue of malnutrition. This scoping review aimed to determine the extent, range and nature of research using fMRI, related to reward-based regions, in response to food cues in middle to older aged adults (50 years and over). Methods: The following databases were systematically searched in July 2019: CINAHL, CENTRAL, Embase, Dissertations and Theses, Ovid Medline, PsycINFO, PsycEXTRA, Scopus and Web of Science. Studies were eligible for inclusion if participants had a mean or median age =50 years, utilised and reported outcomes of either a food cue task-related fMRI methodology or resting-state fMRI. Data from included studies were charted, and synthesised narratively. Results: Twenty-two studies were included. Eighteen studies utilised a task-related design to measure neural activation, two studies measured resting state neural connectivity only and an additional two studies measured both. The fMRI scanning paradigms, food cue tools and procedure of presentation varied markedly. Four studies compared the neural responses to food between younger and older adults, providing no consensus on neural age-related changes to food cues; two studies utilised longitudinal scans. Conclusion: This review identified significant extent, range and nature in the approaches used to assess neuronal activity in response to food cues in adults aged 50 years and over. Future studies are needed to understand the age-related appetite changes whilst considering personal preferences for food cues.
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2021 |
Burden EH, Hart M, Pursey K, Howley PP, Smith TA, Smart CE, 'Screening practices for disordered eating in paediatric type 1 diabetes clinics', Nutrients, 13 (2021) [C1] Background: Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) is associated with increased risk of eating disorders. This study aimed to (1) assess adherence of Australasian paediatric T1D clinics to interna... [more] Background: Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) is associated with increased risk of eating disorders. This study aimed to (1) assess adherence of Australasian paediatric T1D clinics to international guidelines on screening for disordered eating and (2) identify barriers and enablers to the use of screening tools for the identification of disordered eating. Methods: A 24-item survey covering five content domains: clinic characteristics, identification of disordered eating, screening tool use, training and competence, and pathways for referral, was sent to Australasian clinics caring for =150 children and adolescents with T1D. Results: Of 13 eligible clinics, 10 participated. Two reported rates of disordered eating of >20%, while eight reported rates < 5%. All clinics used the routine clinical interview as the primary method of screening for disordered eating. Only one used screening tools; these were not diabetes-specific or routinely used. Barriers to use of screening tools included shortage of time and lack of staff confidence around use (n = 7, 70%). Enablers included staff training in disordered eating. Conclusions: Screening tools for disordered eating are not utilised by most Australasian paediatric T1D clinics. Overall, low reported rates of disordered eating suggest that it may be undetected, potentially missing an opportunity for early intervention.
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2021 |
Haslam RL, Clarke ED, Gray S, Gearon R, Pursey K, 'Findings from a web content analysis of resources targeting sporting coaches aimed at educating or upskilling on eating disorders and disordered eating in athletes', JOURNAL OF EATING DISORDERS, 9 (2021) [C1]
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2021 |
Pursey KM, Burrows TL, Barker D, Hart M, Paxton SJ, 'Disordered eating, body image concerns, and weight control behaviors in primary school aged children: A systematic review and meta-analysis of universal-selective prevention interventions', INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF EATING DISORDERS, 54 1730-1765 (2021) [C1]
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2021 |
Hart M, Pursey K, Smart C, 'Low carbohydrate diets in eating disorders and type 1 diabetes', Clinical Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 26 643-655 (2021) [C1] Dietary intake requires attention in the treatment of both eating disorders and type 1 diabetes (T1D) to achieve optimal outcomes. Nutritional management of both conditions involv... [more] Dietary intake requires attention in the treatment of both eating disorders and type 1 diabetes (T1D) to achieve optimal outcomes. Nutritional management of both conditions involves encouraging a wide variety of healthful foods in the context of usual cultural and family traditions. In recent times, low carbohydrate diets have seen a rise in popularity, both in T1D and in the general population. Low carbohydrate diets involve dietary restriction, although the extent depends on the level of carbohydrate prescription. Although dietary restriction is a known risk factor for eating disorders, there is limited literature on the impact of following a low carbohydrate diet on the development and maintenance of eating disorders in T1D. The aim of this review is to discuss the impact of dietary restriction on the development and treatment of eating disorders and propose considerations to enable optimum health outcomes in individuals with T1D, an at risk group. In order to achieve this, clarity regarding strategies that allow both flexibility in dietary intake and facilitate healthy eating behaviours, whilst achieving glycaemic targets, are required.
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2020 |
Pursey KM, Hart M, Jenkins L, McEvoy M, Smart CE, 'Screening and identification of disordered eating in people with type 1 diabetes: A systematic review', JOURNAL OF DIABETES AND ITS COMPLICATIONS, 34 (2020) [C1]
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2020 |
Pursey KM, Hay P, Bussey K, Trompeter N, Lonergan A, Pike KM, et al., 'Diabetes and disordered eating behaviours in a community-based sample of Australian adolescents', JOURNAL OF EATING DISORDERS, 8 (2020) [C1]
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2019 |
Contreras-Rodriguez O, Burrows T, Pursey KM, Stanwell P, Parkes L, Soriano-Mas C, Verdejo-Garcia A, 'Food addiction linked to changes in ventral striatum functional connectivity between fasting and satiety', Appetite, 133 18-23 (2019) [C1] Introduction: The concept of ¿food addiction¿ (FA) has gained popularity in view of clinical and neurobiological overlaps between excessive food intake and addictive disorders. Ho... [more] Introduction: The concept of ¿food addiction¿ (FA) has gained popularity in view of clinical and neurobiological overlaps between excessive food intake and addictive disorders. However, no studies have examined the link between FA and striatocortical circuits involved in addictive disorders, or the influence of homeostatic status, which regulates the drive to eat, on these systems. This study aims to investigate changes in striatal functional connectivity between fasted and fed conditions among adults ranging in body mass index (BMI) and FA symptoms. Methods: Thirty adults were recruited from the general community and completed self-reported surveys including demographics, FA symptoms using the Yale Food Addiction Scale, as well as height and weight measures, used to determine BMI. Participants completed two 3-T MRI scans, one in a fasted state and one in a fed state. We conducted seed-based analyses to examine between-session (¿fasted > fed¿) change in resting-state functional connectivity of the ventral and dorsal striatum, and its association with FA scores (controlling for BMI). Results: Higher symptoms of FA correlated with greater changes in ventral caudate-hippocampus connectivity between fasted and fed conditions. FA symptoms did not correlate with connectivity in the dorsal caudate circuit. Post-hoc analyses revealed that participants with higher symptoms of FA had ventral caudate-hippocampus hyperconnectivity in the fasted scan only, as well as a significant reduction of this connectivity between the fasted and fed scans. Conclusions: Heightened connectivity in the ventral striatum during a fasted state, which has been linked to reward prediction signals, underpins symptoms of FA. In contrast, connectivity in the dorsal striatum or ¿habit¿ system is unrelated to homeostatic status and FA symptoms, and is thus less relevant for subclinical manifestations of FA.
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2019 |
Pursey KM, Contreras-Rodriguez O, Collins CE, Stanwell P, Burrows TL, 'Food Addiction Symptoms and Amygdala Response in Fasted and Fed States', Nutrients, 11 1285-1285 [C1]
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2018 |
Li JTE, Pursey KM, Duncan MJ, Burrows T, 'Addictive Eating and Its Relation to Physical Activity and Sleep Behavior.', Nutrients, 10 (2018) [C1]
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2018 |
Nepal S, Kypri K, Pursey K, Attia J, Chikritzhs T, Miller P, 'Effectiveness of lockouts in reducing alcohol-related harm: Systematic review.', Drug and alcohol review, 37 527-536 (2018) [C1]
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2018 |
Burrows T, Kay-Lambkin F, Pursey K, Skinner J, Dayas C, 'Food addiction and associations with mental health symptoms: a systematic review with meta-analysis', Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics, 31 544-572 (2018) [C1] Background: The present study systematically reviewed the literature aiming to determine the relationships between food addiction, as measured by the Yale Food Addiction Scale (YF... [more] Background: The present study systematically reviewed the literature aiming to determine the relationships between food addiction, as measured by the Yale Food Addiction Scale (YFAS), and mental health symptoms. Methods: Nine databases were searched using keywords. Studies were included if they reported: (i) YFAS diagnosis or symptom score and (ii) a mental health outcome, as well as the association between (i) and (ii). In total, 51 studies were included. Results: Through meta-analysis, the mean prevalence of food addiction diagnosis was 16.2%, with an average of 3.3 (range 2.85¿3.92) food addiction symptoms being reported. Subanalyses revealed that the mean number of food addiction symptoms in populations seeking treatment for weight loss was 3.01 (range 2.65¿3.37) and this was higher in groups with disordered eating (mean 5.2 3.6¿6.7). Significant positive correlations were found between food addiction and binge eating [mean r¿=¿0.602 (0.557¿0.643), P¿<¿0.05], depression, anxiety and food addiction [mean r¿=¿0.459 (0.358¿0.550), r¿=¿0.483 (0.228¿0.676), P¿<¿0.05, respectively]. Conclusions: A significant, positive relationship exists between food addiction and mental health symptoms, although the results of the present study highlight the complexity of this relationship.
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2017 |
Burrows T, Goldman S, Pursey K, Lim R, 'Is there an association between dietary intake and academic achievement: a systematic review', Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics, 30 117-140 (2017) [C1] Background: The majority of literature examining the effect of dietary behaviour on academic achievement has focused on breakfast consumption only. Here, we aim to systematically ... [more] Background: The majority of literature examining the effect of dietary behaviour on academic achievement has focused on breakfast consumption only. Here, we aim to systematically review the literature investigating the broader effects of dietary intake and behaviours on school-aged children's academic achievement. Methods: A search was undertaken across seven databases using keywords. For studies to be included, they needed to be conducted in: school-aged children (5¿18 years); assess and report: (i) a measure of academic performance; (ii) a measure of dietary intake/behaviour; and (iii) the association between dietary intake/behaviours and academic performance. Forty studies were included in the review. Results: The majority of studies were cross-sectional in design (n = 33) and studied children aged >10 years, with very few reports in younger age groups. More than 30 different dietary assessment tools were used, with only 40% of those using a validated/standardised assessment method. Half the studies collected outcomes of academic achievement objectively from a recognised educational authority, whereas 10 studies used self-reported measures. The dietary outcomes most commonly reported to have positive associations with academic achievement were: breakfast consumption (n = 12) and global diet quality/meal patterns (n = 7), whereas negative associations reported with junk/fast food (n = 9). Conclusions: This review highlights that moderate associations exist for dietary intakes characterised by regular breakfast consumption, lower intakes of energy-dense, nutrient-poor foods and overall diet quality with respect to outcomes of academic achievement. Future studies should consider the use of validated dietary assessment methods and standardised reporting of academic achievement.
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2017 |
Pursey KM, Davis C, Burrows TL, 'Nutritional Aspects of Food Addiction', Current Addiction Reports, 4 142-150 (2017) Purpose of Review: Behavioural and neurobiological similarities have been identified between the consumption of certain foods and addiction-related disorders. However, few studies... [more] Purpose of Review: Behavioural and neurobiological similarities have been identified between the consumption of certain foods and addiction-related disorders. However, few studies have investigated what components of food may promote an addictive-like response in humans. This review evaluates recent research concerning the nutritional aspects of addictive-like eating. Recent Findings: Based on the current evidence base, highly processed, hyper-palatable foods with combinations of fat and sugar appear most likely to facilitate an addictive-like response. Total fat content and glycaemic index also appear to be important factors in the addictive potential of foods. Despite public interest and evidence from animal studies, few studies have reported an association between sugar and addictive-like eating. Summary: Due to the paucity of studies, it is difficult to conclusively identify a specific food or ingredient as capable of triggering an addictive-like response in humans. Future studies using validated dietary assessment tools are essential and may inform the development of novel strategies to treat maladaptive eating behaviours.
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2017 |
Rollo ME, Aguiar EJ, Pursey KM, Morgan PJ, Plotnikoff RC, Young MD, et al., 'Impact on dietary intake of a self-directed, gender-tailored diabetes prevention program in men', World Journal of Diabetes, 8 414-421 (2017) [C1]
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2016 |
Pursey KM, Gearhardt AN, Burrows TL, 'The relationship between "food addiction" and visceral adiposity in young females', Physiology and Behavior, 157 9-12 (2016) [C1] Objectives: There is increasing interest in the role of addictive-like eating in weight gain. No studies have investigated associations between addictive-like eating and specific ... [more] Objectives: There is increasing interest in the role of addictive-like eating in weight gain. No studies have investigated associations between addictive-like eating and specific patterns of fat deposition which are sensitive indicators of chronic disease risk. This exploratory study aimed to evaluate relationships between Yale Food Addiction Scale (YFAS) assessed "food addiction" and visceral adiposity. Methods: Australian adults aged 18-35 years were recruited to an online survey including demographics and the YFAS. The YFAS is a 25-item tool designed to assess addictive-like eating behaviors and uses two scoring outputs, "diagnosis" and "symptom scores". Participants had their anthropometric measurements taken [height, weight and body composition (visceral fat, fat mass, percentage body fat)] using a standardized protocol. Results: Ninety-three female participants (age 24.3 ± 4.0years, BMI 24.3 ± 6.0 kg/m2) completed all measurements. Twenty-one participants (22.3%) met the predefined criteria for YFAS "diagnosis". YFAS "symptom scores" were moderately correlated with visceral fat area (r = 0.36, p < 0.001), and "symptom scores" predicted increases in visceral fat area [r2 = 0.17, ß = 1.17, p = 0.001]. Effect sizes were moderate for all variables. Conclusion: This study showed that YFAS assessed FA was associated with visceral fat deposition, a sensitive indicator of increased cardiometabolic risk. Future research is required to investigate whether FA predicts future weight gain.
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2016 |
Pursey KM, Collins CE, Stanwell P, Burrows TL, 'The stability of 'food addiction' as assessed by the Yale Food Addiction Scale in a non-clinical population over 18-months', Appetite, 96 533-538 (2016) [C1] The Yale Food Addiction Scale (YFAS) is a widely used tool to assess the behavioural indicators of addictive-like eating. No studies, however, have used a longitudinal design to d... [more] The Yale Food Addiction Scale (YFAS) is a widely used tool to assess the behavioural indicators of addictive-like eating. No studies, however, have used a longitudinal design to determine whether these addictive-like eating behaviours are a stable or transient phenomenon in a community-based population. This study aimed to evaluate whether food addiction Diagnosis and Symptom scores as assessed by the YFAS remain stable over 18-months in a non-clinical population. Young adults aged 18-35 years were recruited from the community to a web-based survey in 2013. The survey included demographics, anthropometrics and the YFAS. Participants who volunteered to be recontacted for future research were invited to complete the same survey 18-months later. The YFAS scoring outputs Diagnosis and Symptom scores were tested for agreement and reliability between the two time points. Of the 303 participants who completed the original survey and agreed to be recontacted, 69 participants (22.8% of those recontacted, 94% female, 67% normal weight at baseline) completed the 18-month follow-up survey. At baseline, thirteen participants met the YFAS predefined criteria for Diagnosis, while eleven participants met these criteria at the 18-month follow-up. YFAS Diagnosis was found to have moderate agreement [K = .50, 95% CI (.23, .77)] between the two time points while Symptom scores had good agreement [K = .70, 95% CI (.54, .83)]. Intraclass correlation coefficients were interpreted as moderate over the 18-month period for both the Diagnosis [ICC = .71, 95% CI (.45, .88)] and Symptom scores [ICC = .72, 95% CI (.58, .82)]. YFAS assessed food addiction Diagnosis and Symptom scores were found to be relatively stable over 18-months in a non-clinical population of predominantly female, young adults. Future research is required to determine the impact of behavioural weight loss interventions on YFAS assessed addictive-like eating.
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2015 |
Pursey KM, Collins CE, Stanwell P, Burrows TL, 'Foods and dietary profiles associated with 'food addiction' in young adults', Addictive Behaviors Reports, 2 41-48 (2015) [C1] BackgroundIt has been suggested that addictive behaviors related to consumption of specific foods could contribute to overeating and obesity. Although energy-dense, hyper-palatabl... [more] BackgroundIt has been suggested that addictive behaviors related to consumption of specific foods could contribute to overeating and obesity. Although energy-dense, hyper-palatable foods are hypothesized to be associated with addictive-like eating behaviors, few studies have assessed this in humans. ObjectiveTo evaluate in young adults whether intakes of specific foods are associated with 'food addiction', as assessed by the Yale Food Addiction Scale (YFAS), and to describe the associated nutrient intake profiles. DesignAustralian adults aged 18-35. years were invited to complete an online cross-sectional survey including demographics, the YFAS and usual dietary intake. Participants were classified as food addicted (FAD) or non-addicted (NFA) according to the YFAS predefined scoring criteria. ResultsA total 462 participants (86% female, 73% normal weight) completed the survey, with 14.7% (n = 68) classified as FAD. The FAD group had a higher proportion of females (p =. 01) and higher body mass index (p< .001) compared to NFA. Higher YFAS symptom scores were associated with higher percentage energy intake (%E) from energy-dense, nutrient-poor foods including candy, take out and baked sweet products, as well as lower %E from nutrient-dense core foods including whole-grain products and breakfast cereals. These remained statistically significant when adjusted for age, sex and BMI category (p = .001). ConclusionsStatistically significant associations were identified between YFAS assessed food addiction and dietary intake, specifically intakes of energy-dense, nutrient-poor foods. However, the effect sizes were small limiting clinical applications. Further examination of the relationship between addictive-like eating and intake of specific foods in a nationally representative sample is warranted.
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2015 |
Burrows TL, Pursey KM, Stanwell P, 'The Application of Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy to Investigate the Effect of a Commercial Energy Drink', European Journal of Nutrition & Food Safety, 5 75-87 (2015) [C1]
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2014 |
Pursey K, Burrows TL, Stanwell P, Collins CE, 'How accurate is web-based self-reported height, weight, and body mass index in young adults?', J Med Internet Res, 16 e4 (2014) [C1]
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2014 |
Pursey KM, Stanwell P, Gearhardt AN, Collins CE, Burrows TL, 'The prevalence of food addiction as assessed by the yale food addiction scale: A systematic review', Nutrients, 6 4552-4590 (2014) [C1] Obesity is a global issue and it has been suggested that an addiction to certain foods could be a factor contributing to overeating and subsequent obesity. Only one tool, the Yale... [more] Obesity is a global issue and it has been suggested that an addiction to certain foods could be a factor contributing to overeating and subsequent obesity. Only one tool, the Yale Food Addiction Scale (YFAS) has been developed to specifically assess food addiction. This review aimed to determine the prevalence of food addiction diagnosis and symptom scores, as assessed by the YFAS. Published studies to July 2014 were included if they reported the YFAS diagnosis or symptom score and were published in the English language. Twenty-five studies were identified including a total of 196,211 predominantly female, overweight/obese participants (60%). Using meta-analysis, the weighted mean prevalence of YFAS food addiction diagnosis was 19.9%. Food addiction (FA) diagnosis was found to be higher in adults aged >35 years, females, and overweight/obese participants. Additionally, YFAS diagnosis and symptom score was higher in clinical samples compared to non-clinical counterparts. YFAS outcomes were related to a range of other eating behavior measures and anthropometrics. Further research is required to explore YFAS outcomes across a broader spectrum of ages, other types of eating disorders and in conjunction with weight loss interventions to confirm the efficacy of the tool to assess for the presence of FA.
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2014 |
Pursey KM, Stanwell PT, Callister RJ, Brain K, Collins CE, Burrows TL, 'Neural responses to visual food cues according to weight status: a systematic review of functional magnetic resonance imaging studies', Frontiers in Nutrition, 1 1-11 (2014) [C1]
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2013 |
Burrows TL, Pursey KM, Hutchesson MJ, Stanwell PT, 'What are the health implications associated with the consumption of energy drinks? A systematic review', Nutrition Reviews, 71 135-148 (2013) [C1]
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Show 35 more journal articles |
Conference (9 outputs)
Year | Citation | Altmetrics | Link | ||
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2023 |
Pursey K, Preece K, Freer M, Bhatia R, 'DIETARY INTAKES AND NUTRITIONAL ISSUES IN INBORN ERRORS OF IMMUNITY: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW', INTERNAL MEDICINE JOURNAL (2023)
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2021 |
Pursey K, Skinner J, Leary M, Burrows T, 'Dietary intakes associated with addictive eating: A systematic review', JOURNAL OF EATING DISORDERS (2021)
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2021 |
Pursey K, Burrows T, Barker D, Hart M, Paxton S, 'Disordered eating, body image concerns and weight control behaviours in children: A systematic review and meta-analysis of universal-selective prevention interventions', JOURNAL OF EATING DISORDERS (2021)
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2015 |
Pursey K, Collins C, Stanwell P, Burrows T, 'Is food addiction a stable phenomenon?', Wellington, New Zealand (2015) [E3]
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2013 |
Pursey K, Stanwell P, Collins CE, Burrows T, 'The use of fMRI in food addiction: A systematic review', Obesity Facts: The European Journal of Obesity, Liverpool, UK (2013) [E3]
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2013 |
Pursey K, Burrows T, Collins CE, Stanwell P, 'Does food addiction exist in the young Australian adult population?', Obesity Research and Clinical Practice, Melbourne, Australia (2013) [E3]
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2013 |
Pursey K, Burrows T, Collins CE, Stanwell P, 'How accurate is web-based self-reported height and weight in young Australian adults?', Obesity Research and Clinical Practice, Melbourne, Australia (2013) [E3]
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2013 |
Ramadan S, Burrows TL, Pursey KM, Stanwell PT, 'Brain MRS after consumption of commercially available energy drink', Proceedings of the International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah (2013) [E3]
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2012 |
Burrows TL, Pursey KM, Hutchesson MJ, Stanwell PT, 'What are the health implications associated with the consumption of energy drinks? A systematic review', Nutrition & Dietetics: Special Issue: Dietitians Association of Australia 16th International Congress of Dietetics, Sydney, NSW (2012) [E3]
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Show 6 more conferences |
Grants and Funding
Summary
Number of grants | 7 |
---|---|
Total funding | $80,487 |
Click on a grant title below to expand the full details for that specific grant.
20241 grants / $30,000
Investigating dietary intakes, nutrition status, and nutrition issues in Australian adolescents (14-18 years) with an inborn error of immunity (IEI)$30,000
Funding body: Hunter Medical Research Institute
Funding body | Hunter Medical Research Institute |
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Project Team | Doctor Kirrilly Pursey, Dr Rani Bhatia, Dr Kahn Preece |
Scheme | Research Grant |
Role | Lead |
Funding Start | 2024 |
Funding Finish | 2025 |
GNo | G2301427 |
Type Of Funding | C3300 – Aust Philanthropy |
Category | 3300 |
UON | Y |
20212 grants / $9,987
What are the effects of food odours on the amygdala and subcorti-cal brain networks in a sample of heathy adults: A pilot study$4,998
Funding body: Hunter Medical Research Institute
Funding body | Hunter Medical Research Institute |
---|---|
Project Team | Doctor Kirrilly Pursey, Doctor Leonie Borne, Professor Tracy Burrows, Professor Michael Breakspear |
Scheme | Research Grant |
Role | Lead |
Funding Start | 2021 |
Funding Finish | 2021 |
GNo | G2100155 |
Type Of Funding | C3300 – Aust Philanthropy |
Category | 3300 |
UON | Y |
Pilot funding for studying subcortical functional brain networks impacted by olfaction and food cues in healthy adults$4,989
Funding body: Hunter Medical Research Institute
Funding body | Hunter Medical Research Institute |
---|---|
Project Team | Doctor Leonie Borne, Doctor Kirrilly Pursey, Professor Michael Breakspear, Professor Tracy Burrows |
Scheme | Research Grant |
Role | Investigator |
Funding Start | 2021 |
Funding Finish | 2022 |
GNo | G2100166 |
Type Of Funding | C3300 – Aust Philanthropy |
Category | 3300 |
UON | Y |
20173 grants / $30,500
Greaves Family Early Career Research Support Grant$25,000
Funding body: Hunter Medical Research Institute
Funding body | Hunter Medical Research Institute |
---|---|
Project Team | Doctor Kirrilly Pursey |
Scheme | Greaves Family Early Career Support Grant |
Role | Lead |
Funding Start | 2017 |
Funding Finish | 2018 |
GNo | G1700715 |
Type Of Funding | C3300 – Aust Philanthropy |
Category | 3300 |
UON | Y |
HETI Workplace Learning Grant$4,000
Funding body: HETI (Health Education and Training Institute)
Funding body | HETI (Health Education and Training Institute) |
---|---|
Scheme | Workplace Learning Grant |
Role | Lead |
Funding Start | 2017 |
Funding Finish | 2018 |
GNo | |
Type Of Funding | Not Known |
Category | UNKN |
UON | N |
Faculty of Health and Medicine ECR Pilot Grant$1,500
Funding body: Faculty of Health and Medicine Pilot Grant University of Newcastle
Funding body | Faculty of Health and Medicine Pilot Grant University of Newcastle |
---|---|
Scheme | UON Faculty of Health and Medicine Pilot Grant |
Role | Lead |
Funding Start | 2017 |
Funding Finish | 2017 |
GNo | |
Type Of Funding | Internal |
Category | INTE |
UON | N |
20151 grants / $10,000
Jennie Thomas Medical Research Travel Grant - Food Addiction Study$10,000
Funding body: Hunter Medical Research Institute
Funding body | Hunter Medical Research Institute |
---|---|
Project Team | Doctor Kirrilly Pursey, Dr Nicole Avena, Professor Caroline Davis, Assistant Professor Ashley Gearhardt |
Scheme | Jennie Thomas Medical Research Travel Grant |
Role | Lead |
Funding Start | 2015 |
Funding Finish | 2015 |
GNo | G1500426 |
Type Of Funding | Grant - Aust Non Government |
Category | 3AFG |
UON | Y |
Research Supervision
Number of supervisions
Current Supervision
Commenced | Level of Study | Research Title | Program | Supervisor Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
2024 | PhD | The Relationship Between Weight Management and Disordered Eating | PhD (Nutrition & Dietetics), College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, The University of Newcastle | Principal Supervisor |
2020 | PhD | Investigating the Effectiveness of an Online Telehealth Dietitian Intervention on Food Addiction in Australian Adults | PhD (Nutrition & Dietetics), College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, The University of Newcastle | Co-Supervisor |
News
News • 12 Oct 2016
How are dietary intakes measured?
A team of UON researchers, led by Professor Clare Collins, is collaborating with national and international experts in order to improve the understanding of how dietary intake is measured and assessed amongst Australian researcher and health practitioners.
News • 11 Aug 2015
Survey to explore junk food 'addiction' in young adults
Craving chocolate? Hooked on hot chips? University of Newcastle researchers are calling for young men and women to join a study examining levels of food 'addiction' in Australia.
News • 14 Oct 2013
Food addiction
A University of Newcastle research team is hoping to determine whether 'addiction' to pleasurable foods high in salt, fat and sugar could be contributing to the obesity epidemic.
Dr Kirrilly Pursey
Position
Lecturer- Nutrition and Dietetics
School of Health Sciences
College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing