Yoga can reduce eating disorder symptoms in adolescents, according to a study from the USA. A total of 50 girls and four boys aged 11-21 years were randomised to an eight-week trial of standard care (every other week physician and/or dietician appointments) vs. individualised yoga plus standard care. The yoga group demonstrated greater decreases in eating disorder symptoms. Specifically, the eating disorder scores decreased over time in the yoga group, whereas the control group showed some initial decline, but then returned to baseline levels at week 12. Food preoccupation was measured before and after each yoga session, and decreased significantly after all sessions. Both groups maintained current BMI levels and decreased in anxiety and depression over time. (Randomized controlled clinical trial of yoga in the treatment of eating disorders. J Adolesc Health. 2010 Apr;46(4):346-51. Epub 2009 Nov 3).