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PEOPLE@HES-SO – Directory and Skills inventory

PEOPLE@HES-SO
Directory and Skills inventory

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Carrard Isabelle

Carrard Isabelle

Professeure HES associée

Main skills

Eating behaviour

Body image

Eating disorders

Behaviour change

Cognitive behavioural therapy

  • Contact

  • Teaching

  • Research

  • Publications

Main contract

Professeure HES associée

Haute école de santé - Genève
Avenue de Champel 47, 1206 Genève, CH
HEDS-GE
Faculty
Santé
Main Degree Programme
Nutrition et diététique
BSc HES-SO en Nutrition et diététique - Haute école de santé - Genève
  • Méthodologie de la recherche
  • Troubles alimentaires
  • Be body positive
  • Travaux de Bachelor
  • Travail de Master

Completed

Représentations profanes et pratiques professionnelles autour du sain et du malsain alimentaires durant la grossesse
AGP

Role: Collaborator

Financement: HES-SO Rectorat; VD-HESAV; VD-HESAV

Description du projet : L'alimentation durant la grossesse est l'un des facteurs clé de la santé de la future mère et de son bébé. Si les femmes enceintes rapportent en général le désir de bien s'alimenter, peu d'entre elles parviennent à suivre les recommandations. Fondé sur une approche psychosociale de l'alimentation, ce projet qualitatif exploratoire vise à mieux comprendre l'expérience des femmes enceintes ainsi que les pratiques des sages-femmes et des diététiciennes en matière de recommandations nutritionnelles durant la grossesse. Les entretiens individuels et collectifs qui seront menés incluront la technique des dessins corporels ' une méthode innovante dans la recherche en santé. Les résultats mettront notamment en lumière, d'une part, les représentations du sain et du malsain alimentaires, et les motivations du changement des habitudes alimentaires des femmes durant la grossesse, d'autre part, les écueils rencontrés par les professionnelles de santé. Les résultats permettront de proposer des pistes pour améliorer la transmission des recommandations nutritionnelles et leur adoption

Research team within HES-SO: Carrard Isabelle , Hammer Raphael , Schmied Marielle , Chevalley Cindy

Partenaires professionnels: Santé; Fondation pour la Recherche en Périnatalité

Durée du projet: 01.04.2023 - 30.06.2024

Montant global du projet: 141'290 CHF

Statut: Completed

Promotion des ventes de l'assiette végétarienne au sein d'une cafétéria de la HES-SO: mise en place d'une méthodologie et évaluation d'une intervention visant la santé et l'environnement de manière conjointe
AGP

Role: Main Applicant

Financement: HES-SO Rectorat

Description du projet : Ce projet vise à développer une intervention en se basant sur une méthodologie de changement du comportement afin d'augmenter les ventes de l'assiette végétarienne dans la cafétéria d'HEPIA, HES-SO Genève. En promouvant la réduction de la consommation de viande, le projet a l'ambition de sensibiliser les usagers de la cafétéria à une alimentation qui à la fois préserve leur santé mais permet également limiter le réchauffement climatique par une diminution des émissions de gaz à effet de serre.

Research team within HES-SO: Carrard Isabelle , Fabbi Sidonie , Negro Flavia , Bertoni Maluf Valeria Andrea , Simi Sabrina

Partenaires académiques: Santé

Durée du projet: 01.01.2022 - 30.06.2023

Montant global du projet: 90'720 CHF

Statut: Completed

Prévention des troubles du comportement alimentaire chez les étudiantes à risque : adaptation et évaluation de deux interventions en Suisse romande (HEIDI BP-HW)
AGP

Role: Main Applicant

Financement: HES-SO Rectorat; Santé; Santé

Description du projet : Présentation: Ce projet a pour but d'adapter et d'évaluer deux interventions de prévention des troubles du comportement alimentaire (TCA) auprès d'une population d'étudiantes. Les deux interventions choisies sont basées sur des techniques de dissonance cognitive d'une part, et de gestion saine du poids d'autre part. Elles ont fait leur preuve aux Etats-Unis. Comme la prévention des TCA est inexistante en Suisse romande, développer des interventions efficaces est important. Objectifs: traduire et adapter les deux interventions; conduire une première étude pilote pour les ajuster et ajuster la méthodologie; conduire une étude d'efficacité qui fournira des données nécessaires à une demande de fonds auprès d'une instance externe. Moyens requis: temps de professeurs et temps d'assistants, frais annexe voir budget

Research team within HES-SO: Carrard Isabelle , Sagne Aurèle , Vaucher De La Croix Camille , Haye Lucie , Bucher Della Torre Sophie , Zanella Claudia , Cekic Sezen

Partenaires académiques: Université de Genève

Durée du projet: 01.01.2020 - 30.06.2022

Montant global du projet: 121'540 CHF

Statut: Completed

MeetMyNeeds - évaluer les besoins des proches aidant-e-s d'une personne avec démence et les orienter de manière ciblée vers les offres de soutien

Role: Co-applicant

Description du projet :

Soutenir efficacement les proches aidant·e·s et optimiser l’utilisation des ressources sont des pistes d’actions pour maintenir la qualité des soins dans le contexte de pénurie de personnel de santé qualifié. Avec le projet MeetMyNeeds, la HEdS-FR répond à ce défi en innovant en matière d’évaluation des besoins des proches aidant·e·s.

Face à la situation de pénurie, et au constat que les professionnel·le·s utilisent peu d’outils systématiques pour évaluer les besoins des proches aidant·e·s de personnes avec démence, Sandrine Pihet, professeure HES ordinaire de la HEdS-FR, a lancé en 2017 le projet de recherche MeetMyNeeds. Le but ? Rendre le système de santé plus performant grâce à une vue d’ensemble des besoins de ces proches, transversale aux divers intervenant·e·s, pour faciliter une organisation systémique.

Pour y parvenir, la HEdS-FR a développé, en collaboration avec des ingénieur·e·s de la HES-SO Valais-Wallis, une plateforme web spécialisée, véritable outil d’évaluation et d’orientation pour les proches aidant·e·s de personnes avec démence. Cette plateforme permet aux professionnel·le·s de préserver leurs ressources pour se concentrer sur les activités où le facteur humain est essentiel et sur les personnes les plus vulnérables.

En 2020, la HEdS-FR a déployé un prototype basé sur les préférences de 68 intervenant·e·s et de 36 proches aidant·e·s, puis elle a conduit des tests utilisateurs spécifiques avec 14 intervenant·e·s et 10 proches, pour aboutir à une version affinée et accessible à la diversité des publics cibles.

Malgré la situation sanitaire, l’objectif est tenu ! En analysant les résultats des entretiens, la HEdS-FR a dressé un cahier des charges précis pour affiner le prototype afin qu’il réponde au plus juste aux besoins des proches aidant·e·s et du réseau socio-sanitaire. Ce projet devrait encore faire parler de lui au cours des prochaines années.

Research team within HES-SO: Pihet Sandrine , Pasquier Noémie , Kipfer Stephanie , Cotting Alexandre , Carrard Isabelle , Tétreault Sylvie

Durée du projet: 25.02.2019 - 31.12.2020

Url of the project site: https://www.hes-so.ch/fr/meetmyneeds-10516.html

Statut: Completed

Projet TWIGGY: Exploration de l'insatisfaction corporelle et de son lien avec les désordres alimentaires chez les femmes qui avancent en âge
AGP

Role: Main Applicant

Financement: HES-SO Rectorat; Santé; Santé

Description du projet : L'insatisfaction corporelle est un sujet très étudié chez les femmes jeunes à cause de son lien démontré avec les troubles des conduites alimentaires. Or des données montrent que l'insatisfaction corporelle reste stable au cours de la vie, sans qu'on ait identifié jusqu'à présent si elle avait également des répercussions sur la santé des femmes plus âgées. Le présent projet est une étude exploratoire qui a pour but d'évaluer l'insatisfaction corporelle chez des femmes âgées de 60 à 75 ans avec une méthodologie mixte. Les liens avec d'éventuels désordres alimentaires seront également documentés. Finalement une analyse sera faite des facteurs de vulnérabilité ou protecteurs de la relation entre insatisfaction corporelle et désordres alimentaires, afin de déterminer leur spécificité dans cette population. Les résultats permettront de fournir une description de ces indicateurs encore peu connus chez les femmes de cet âge, et ainsi d'établir des recommandations de dépistage et de prévention et de prise en charge pour les professionnels de santé. Les moyens demandés sont pour la majeure partie des salaires, pour la cheffe de projet et un assistant.

Research team within HES-SO: Carrard Isabelle

Durée du projet: 01.03.2017 - 31.12.2018

Montant global du projet: 103'000 CHF

Statut: Completed

Expertise de recherche pour l'évaluation de l'impact du programme « Collations saines à la récré »
AGP

Role: Collaborator

Requérant(e)s: Santé, Bucher Della Torre Sophie, Santé

Financement: Direction générale de la santé

Description du projet : Evaluer l'impact de la mise en place d'une réglementation sur la qualité nutritionnelle des collations apportées en classe par les élèves de 1P à 4P, par rapport à une intervention sans règlement ou une absence d'intervention, et en regard des ressources investies PREMIERS REQUERANTES : SDBT ET IC : REPARTITION DES FONDS 50-50

Research team within HES-SO: Carrard Isabelle , Cela Jérémy , Bucher Della Torre Sophie

Partenaires académiques: Santé; Bucher Della Torre Sophie, Santé

Partenaires professionnels: Service santé jeunesse

Durée du projet: 01.01.2017 - 31.12.2018

Montant global du projet: 38'220 CHF

Statut: Completed

HOMAWLO: HOw to MAintain Weight LOss. What are the roles of physiological and psychological determinants in the process of weight loss maintenance?
AGP

Role: Main Applicant

Financement: HES-SO Rectorat

Description du projet : The goal of the HOMAWLO (HOw to MAintain Weight LOss) study is to gain a more complete understanding of the physiological and psychological mechanisms underlying weight loss maintenance. We will study the interplay between energy expenditure and impulsivity and their impact on the efficacy of individual weight loss maintenance strategies, including nutritional intake and physical activity. For former overweight persons, as for health professionals, weight loss maintenance is a challenge. The HOMAWLO study is going to investigate the differences between successful weight loss maintainers (WLoMs) and weight regainers. This will contribute to understand the mechanisms involved in weight loss maintenance and, ultimately, the development of tailored interventions. Overweight people are encouraged to lose weight but receive no particular advice on weight loss maintenance. But, as the Academy of nutrition and dietetics phrases it, 'Each phase of the [weight management] continuum requires a transition to a different set of strategies and skills' [1]. The reason why some individuals can successfully maintain weight loss whereas others cannot is not well understood. Some weight loss maintenance strategies have been identified, but studies on the mechanisms underlying their application are scarce and potential influencing factors have been examined separately. A focus on the interplay between physiological and psychological determinants is needed to better understand the reasons of weight regain and to tailor interventions helping people escape the vicious circle of weight loss and regain. Our complementarity as researchers in psychology and in dietetics places us in a good position to perform the HOMAWLO study. We have based our careers on the investigation of various aspects of overweight and eating behavior, from process exploration to treatment. Last year we led a pilot study to ascertain that WLoMs, albeit hard to reach, were sufficiently prevalent and willing to participate. We documented weight loss maintenance strategies, identified relevant psychometric measures and tested our methodology. This established the foundation on which we designed the research plan of the HOMAWLO study.

Research team within HES-SO: Carrard Isabelle , Martin Christie Stéphanie

Partenaires académiques: Santé; Carrard Isabelle, Santé

Durée du projet: 15.12.2015 - 31.01.2016

Montant global du projet: 22'000 CHF

Statut: Completed

Conception et développement d'une application pour Smartphone destinée à lister la consommation alimentaire
AGP

Role: Collaborator

Financement: HES-SO Rectorat; Santé; Santé

Description du projet : Il n'existe, à ce jour, aucune application pour Smartphone permettant de collecter les consommations alimentaires d'un individu. Un tel outil remplacerait la version papier d'un journal alimentaire avec un gain de temps, de précision et de fiabilité. Les applications existantes ont des visées thérapeutiques et offrent un feed-back incompatible avec les objectifs de recherche ou d'épidémiologie nutritionnelle. Notre projet a pour but de développer une telle application. Les principales étapes sont d'établir les listes d'aliments et de portions, de définir le cahier des charges de l'application, d'en développer ses aspects techniques et le valider auprès d'un échantillon hétérogène.

Research team within HES-SO: Carrard Isabelle , Kruseman Maaike , Bucher Della Torre Sophie , Farina Eddy

Durée du projet: 01.03.2014 - 01.12.2015

Montant global du projet: 60'538 CHF

Statut: Completed

2024

Barriers and facilitators influencing the choice of a vegetarian menu in a university cafeteria
Scientific paper ArODES

Valeria A. Bertoni Maluf, Sidonie Fabbi, Carolina Cerqueira Azevedo, Isabelle Carrard

Journal of nutritional science,  2024, 13, e71

Link to the publication

Summary:

This cross-sectional study examined the barriers and facilitators that influence vegetarian menu choices in a university cafeteria in Geneva, Switzerland. As a first step, an online survey developed by the authors based on the Capability, Opportunity, and Motivation Behaviour (COM-B) model was e-mailed to all university students and staff. In the second step, focus groups (FG) were held to complete the survey responses and identify what needed to be changed to promote the choice of the vegetarian menu in the cafeteria. Data from 304 participants collected through the survey was analysed. The main mentioned barriers were lack of vegetarian options, tastelessness and insufficient satiation. The facilitators that emerged from the survey were the price of the vegetarian menu for students and health and environmental benefits. Thirteen people participated in four FG sessions, which were analysed using thematic analysis. Five themes were identified: spontaneous menu selection, predefined menu selection, influence of opportunity on menu selection, influence of environmental sensitivity on menu selection, and threat to identity in menu selection. The choice of a vegetarian menu in a university cafeteria was mainly influenced by the attractiveness and taste of the plate. Future strategies to reduce food-related greenhouse gas emissions should (a) ensure the quality and attractiveness of the vegetarian menu, especially to appeal to the more resistant, such as men and omnivores, and (b) inform consumers about the guarantee of balanced nutrient intake of the vegetarian menu offered in the cafeteria, and about health and environmental benefits.

Associations between body weight dissatisfaction and diet quality in women with a body mass index in the healthy weight category :
Scientific paper ArODES
results from the 2014-2015 Swiss National Nutrition Survey

Isabelle Carrard, Alejandra Bayard, Alexia Grisel, Corinne Jotterand Chaparro, Sophie Bucher Della Torre, Angeline Chatelan

Journal of the academy of nutrition and dietetics,  2024, 124, 11, 1492-1502

Link to the publication

Summary:

Background : Few studies have examined whether diet quality is lower in women with body weight dissatisfaction compared to women without body weight dissatisfaction. Objectives : 1) To examine the association between body weight dissatisfaction and diet quality among women (18-65 years old) in the healthy weight body mass index (BMI) category and 2) to explore dietary and behavioral patterns among women with body weight dissatisfaction. Design : Data were extracted from the cross-sectional 2014-2015 Swiss National Nutrition Survey. Participants/setting: Population-based sample of 507 women with BMI ≥ 18.5 and < 25 kg/m2. Outcome measures : Dietary intakes assessed by dietitians using two non-consecutive computer-assisted multi-pass 24-hour dietary recalls. Diet quality was measured with a slightly modified version of the Healthy Eating Index (HEI) –2020. Statistical analyses performed. Multiple linear regressions to test the association between body weight dissatisfaction and total HEI-2020 score. Hierarchical cluster analysis to identify subgroups of women with body weight dissatisfaction. Results : Body weight dissatisfaction was not found to be associated with diet quality (β = - 1.73 [-4.18 ; 0.71], P =0.16). However, women who were dissatisfied with their body weight had lower scores for the HEI-2020 total fruits (P = 0.050) and whole grains (P = 0.014) components than women who were satisfied with their body weight. Four profiles with different dietary patterns were identified among women with body weight dissatisfaction: “Unhealthy diet with dairy”, “Protein and fat”, “Vegetables without protein”, and “Healthier diet without dairy”. Conclusions : Among women with a BMI in the healthy weight category, overall diet quality was not observed to differ between those with or without body weight dissatisfaction. More research is needed to explore the different profiles of dietary intake in women with body weight dissatisfaction.

Evaluation of the nutrition care process documentation in the patients' records using the Diet-NCP-Audit :
Scientific paper ArODES
experience in a medium-sized multi-site Swiss hospital

Aurélien Clerc, Isabelle Carrard, Ludivine Soguel

Journal of human nutrition and dietetics,  2024, 37, 2, 593-600

Link to the publication

Summary:

Background : The nutrition care process (NCP) is a four-step systematic approach to guide dietitians in providing high-quality nutrition care. It fosters critical thinking and enhances the consistency of dietitians' documentation. Following international recommendations, University Training Hospital of Fribourg (HFR) implemented it in 2013. This study aimed to evaluate the quality of NCP documentation in electronic patient records (EPRs) and to determine the nutrition problems dietitians most often identified while documenting their actions. Methods : The audit was performed on 92 EPRs using the Diet-NCP-Audit, which was translated into French for this study. Results : The documentation quality was assessed as high in 62% of the EPRs, and nutrition diagnoses were mostly documented. In half of the EPRs, nutrition assessment (step 1 of the NCP) was inconsistent with nutrition diagnosis (step 2). Dietitians often used the same nutrition problems: out of the 73 nutrition problems defined in NCP terminology, only 4 (5%) represented 58% of the 189 problems identified in the EPR audit. Conclusion : EPRs were mostly assessed as high quality. However, the entire process requires improved consistency. The poorly documented link between the NCP steps and the restricted choices of nutrition problems dietitians identified should be addressed because they could reveal that dietitians have not fully adopted critical thinking, which the NCP stresses.

2023

A randomized controlled trial to evaluate the acceptability and effectiveness of two eating disorders prevention interventions :
Scientific paper ArODES
the HEIDI BP-HW project

Isabelle Carrard, Sezen Cekic, Sophie Bucher Della Torre

BMC women's health,  2023, vol. 23, no. 1, article 446

Link to the publication

Summary:

Background : Eating disorders (ED) are common in Switzerland, as in other Western countries, with a prevalence of any ED of 3.5%. However, no specific prevention intervention has been evaluated in the French-speaking part of the country. In this study, we assessed the acceptability and effectiveness of two well-validated eating disorders prevention interventions: the Body Project intervention (BP), based on cognitive dissonance techniques, and the Healthy Weight intervention (HW), based on the implementation of a healthy lifestyle. Methods : Forty female students, aged 18–28, with body dissatisfaction, were randomized into three arms: a BP group, an HW group, and a waiting-list control group (WLCG). The primary outcome measure was body dissatisfaction. Secondary outcomes were thin-ideal internalization, dietary restraint, negative affect, and ED psychopathology. Thirty-three participants completed the assessments before and after the one-month interventions or waiting period. A follow-up measurement was conducted one month after the interventions to assess the stability of the results. Results : Both interventions, delivered via a virtual web platform, were considered acceptable. The reduction in body dissatisfaction was greater in the BP group (r = 0.7; p < 0.01) or the HW group (r = 0.6; p < 0.01) than in the WLCG, with large effect sizes. Dietary restraint and shape concern were also significantly reduced in the BP group (r = 0.6 and r = 0.7, respectively; p < 0.01) and HW group (r = 0.5 and r = 0.5, respectively; p < 0.05) compared to the WLCG, with moderate to large effect sizes. The results obtained in each intervention group were stable at the one-month follow-up. Conclusions : This study showed encouraging results in young women with body dissatisfaction, arguing in favor of the French adaptations of the BP and HW interventions. However, the feasibility of recruitment was difficult, partly due to the pandemic situation at the time of the study, and should be further considered to improve dissemination.

L'alimentation des femmes minces insatisfaites de leur poids = L’alimentazione per le donne magre insoddisfatte del proprio peso = Ernährung bei schlanken Frauen, die mit ihrem Gewicht unzufrieden sind
Professional paper ArODES

Alejandra Bayard, Alexia Grisel, Isabelle Carrard, Angéline Chatelan

Nutri info,  Mars 2023, no. 2, pp. 19-25

Link to the publication

Summary:

Dans notre société occidentale, un grand nombre de femmes sont insatisfaites de leur poids, et ce, indépendamment de leur indice de masse corporelle (IMC). Tour d’horizon de notre travail de master abordant la qualité alimentaire des femmes présentant une insatisfaction corporelle et le rôle du/de la diététicien-ne en lien avec cette thématique.

Interventions favorisant une image corporelle positive :
Professional paper ArODES
les pistes actuelles

Isabelle Carrard

Information diététique,  2023, no. 1, pp. 12-19

Link to the publication

Summary:

L’image corporelle positive est un concept multidimensionnel qui inclut appréciation de son corps, conscience de ses besoins et capacité à se protéger des messages menaçants liés à l’apparence. Favoriser une image corporelle positive pourrait permettre la prévention des comportements de santé inadaptés. Le concept étant récent, on a peu de recul sur les interventions qui pourraient être efficaces. Dans cet article, trois interventions qui ont montré un impact sur l’insatisfaction corporelle sont décrites et des liens sont tissés avec les dimensions de l’image corporelle positive. Des pistes plus récentes, comme des interventions d’auto-compassion, sont finalement évoquées.

Barriers and facilitators of intuitive eating in postmenopausal women :
Scientific paper ArODES
a qualitative study

Jeanne Vorlet, Isabelle Carrard

Health psychology open,  January-June 2023, vol. 10, no. 1, pp. 1-16

Link to the publication

Summary:

This qualitative descriptive research explored barriers and facilitators of the intuitive eating (IE) implementation process, as experienced by six postmenopausal women classified as ‘overweight’ or ‘obese’. The data was analysed using deductive and inductive thematic analysis and six themes were identified. IE implementation included developing scepticism about weight loss diets, dealing with hunger and satiety cues, making nutritious food choices for one’s body, struggling with emotional eating, learning to accept one’s body and challenging weight stigma and sociocultural norms of beauty and thinness. IE allowed women to develop a more peaceful relationship with their diet, and was accepted as a welcome alternative to dieting.

2022

Positive body image, intuitive eating, and psychosocial functioning among older women :
Scientific paper ArODES
testing an integrated model

Rachel F. Rodgers, Rachel Berry, Katherine Laveway, Isabelle Carrard

Eating behaviors,  2022, vol. 45, article 101627

Link to the publication

Summary:

Background : Research on the body image and eating behaviors of older women is scarce. Moreover, the scant existing research has lacked a focus on positive dimensions, such as positive reappraisal and acceptance, body appreciation, appearance satisfaction, and intuitive eating among older women. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to examine a model of the relationships among these positive dimensions and psychological functioning in older women. Methods : A sample of 171 women aged 60–75 years were recruited through social media to respond to a survey assessing body image, eating behaviors, and psychological wellbeing. Results : The final model was a good fit to the data. In this model, positive reappraisal and acceptance of age-related appearance changes was associated with higher body appreciation, in turn associated with higher body image related quality of life, higher levels of intuitive eating, and lower levels of depressive symptoms. Conclusion : Positive body image and positive reappraisal of aging-related changes in appearance are associated with psychological wellbeing among older women. Longitudinal data are needed to clarify the direction of these relationships and inform interventions. Body image remains an important dimension among older women and should be accounted for in broader health promotion efforts among this group.

2021

A study protocol for a preliminary randomised controlled trial assessing the acceptability and effectiveness of two eating disorders prevention interventions in Switzerland :
Scientific paper ArODES
the HEIDI BP-HW project

Isabelle Carrard, Sophie Bucher Della Torre

PLOS ONE,  2021, vol. 16, no. 11, article e0259796

Link to the publication

Summary:

Because of the serious consequences of eating disorders on young women’s lives and because of the lack of specialised care facilities, assessing and implementing evidence-based prevention interventions is necessary. Switzerland, like other Western countries, has high prevalence rates of eating disorders. However, no prevention interventions have been evaluated in this country so far. This paper presents the protocol of a preliminary study with the aim to evaluate the acceptability and effectiveness of two interventions, the Body Project (BP) and the Healthy Weight Program (HW), for female students from French-speaking Switzerland. These two interventions were chosen because they have been widely evaluated and they proved to be effective in various countries. They take place in groups and include four weekly sessions over one month. Because of the pandemic situation, the group sessions will take place online on an collaborative platform. The design is a three-arm randomised controlled study. Ninety female students aged 18–25 and presenting with at least moderate body dissatisfaction will be randomised into three groups: (1) one-month BP intervention, (2) one-month HW intervention, and (3) one-month waiting-list control group followed by the BP intervention. Assessments of body dissatisfaction, thin-ideal internalisation, dietary restraint, negative affect, and eating disorder psychopathology will be conducted before and after the interventions or waiting list and after a one-month follow-up. ANCOVA and ANOVA with repeated measures will be used to assess group differences and follow-up stability. Acceptability will be assessed with a questionnaire on participants’ satisfaction with the interventions, group discussion at the end of the intervention, and with participants’ rate of attendance to the group sessions. The study results will provide additional data on these two eating disorders prevention interventions and will suggest ways for their dissemination and further evaluation in Switzerland.

Body image concerns and intuitive eating in older women
Scientific paper ArODES

Isabelle Carrard, Stéphane Rothen, Rachel F. Rodgers

Appetite,  2021, vol. 164, article 105275

Link to the publication

Summary:

Intuitive eating has been described as representing a positive relationship with food that can support health. However, to date, most of the extant research on intuitive eating has been conducted among young women, limiting our understanding of how intuitive eating can contribute to supporting health in aging women. This study aimed to bridge this gap by exploring body image and eating correlates of intuitive eating in older women. The hypotheses were that among older women, intuitive eating would be significantly associated with lower disordered eating, weight and shape concerns, and fewer depressive symptoms, and that an indirect relationship between BMI and intuitive eating via weight and shape concerns would exist. Community women aged 60–75 (N = 200) completed questionnaires assessing intuitive eating, disordered eating, body concern, depressive symptoms and body mass index (BMI). Higher intuitive eating global scores were associated with lower restraint, lower eating concern, lower body concern, fewer depressive symptoms, and lower BMI. An indirect relationship between BMI and intuitive eating via weight and shape concern emerged, suggesting that being preoccupied by one's appearance hinder the ability to practice intuitive eating. These results suggest that intuitive eating is associated with positive outcomes among older women and might be a useful target for interventions designed to increase healthy aging.

Healthy snacks in school :
Scientific paper ArODES
how do regulations work? A mixed-design study

Sophie Bucher Della Torre, Sidonie Fabbi, Isabelle Carrard

Journal of school health,  2021, vol. 91, no. 9, pp. 697-705

Link to the publication

Summary:

Background: School is an important setting to promote healthy eating habits for children. We compared the effects of 4 conditions on the nutritional quality of snacks brought to school. We also investigated teachers’ opinions regarding the process, barriers, and facilitators in regulation implementation. Methods: We compared the nutritional quality of morning snacks based on 1958 photographs from schools divided into 4 conditions: regulation based on a list of permitted foods and beverages; regulation banning sweets, chips, and sugary drinks; information without regulation; or no intervention. Based on 5 focus groups (N = 18 participants), we investigated factors influencing regulation implementation. Results: In schools with a list of permitted foods and beverages, 76% of the children had a healthy snack, compared to 52% to 54% in the 3 other conditions (p < .01). They also brought less sweet foods compared to those in the other conditions (41% vs. 68% to 71%, p < .01). In focus groups, most teachers supported regulation but also expressed ambivalence about their legitimacy. Conclusions: In this study, a regulation based on a list of permitted foods and beverages showed the best results. All actors should be involved in a progressive implementation process to increase acceptance of such regulation.

Une plateforme en ligne pour évaluer les besoins et faciliter l'orientation des personnes proches aidantes d'individus avec démence
Book chapter ArODES

Sandrine Pihet, Noémie Pasquier, Sylvie Tétreault, Alexandre Cotting, Isabelle Carrard

Dans Ludwig, Catherine, Oulevey Bachmann, Annie, Tétreault, Sylvie, Proches aidant·e·s : des alliés indispensables aux professionnels de la santé  (pp. 154-223). 2021,  Genève : Georg

Link to the publication

Diet quality in middle-aged and older women with and without body weight dissatisfaction :
Scientific paper ArODES
results from a population-based national nutrition survey in Switzerland

Angeline Chatelan, Isabelle Carrard

Journal of nutritional science,  2021, vol. 10, article e38

Link to the publication

Summary:

Body weight dissatisfaction is associated with unhealthy dietary behaviours in young adults, but data are scarce regarding how this relationship evolves with age. The objectives of the present study were to assess the prevalence of body weight dissatisfaction and the association between body weight dissatisfaction, nutrient intake and diet quality in middle-aged and older women. We used data of a population-based sample of 468 middle-aged (50–64 y/o) and older (65–75 y/o) women, extracted from the cross-sectional 2014–15 Swiss National Nutrition Survey. Body weight dissatisfaction was assessed by questionnaire. Dietitians assessed dietary intakes using two non-consecutive computer-assisted multi-pass 24-h dietary recalls and performed anthropometric measurements. Nutrient intakes were calculated and compared with national dietary guidelines, and diet quality scored with the 2010 Alternate Healthy Eating Index (2010-AHEI). 41⋅1 % of women reported body weight dissatisfaction, and 49⋅8 % wanted to lose weight. Body weight dissatisfaction was associated with weight loss desire and a higher body mass index (BMI; P < 0⋅001). Women with body weight dissatisfaction consumed significantly less carbohydrates and dietary fibres, even when BMI was controlled for (P < 0⋅05). They also fell short of national dietary guidelines for magnesium and iron. Body weight dissatisfied women obtained lower 2010-AHEI scores than satisfied women (β −4⋅36, 95 % CI −6⋅78, −1⋅93). However, this association disappeared when the BMI was introduced in the equation. This highlights the importance of targeting both body dissatisfaction and unhealthy eating in obesity prevention and treatment at all ages.

Assessing overall diet quality :
Scientific paper ArODES
development and evaluation of the performance of a short self-administrated questionnaire SCASA

Maaike Kruseman, Angeline Chatelan, Eddy Farina, Isabelle Carrard, Jeremy Cela, Idris Guessous, Pedro Marques-Vidal

Nutrients,  2021, vol. 13, no. 2, article 677

Link to the publication

Summary:

Several tools assessing diet quality have been developed over the last decades, but their use in public health and clinical practice is limited because they necessitate detailed quantitative assessment of food intake. Our goal was to develop and validate a score (Score d’Alimentation Saine, SCASA) based on a short self-administrated online questionnaire to assess overall diet quality. SCASA targets the adult population in French-speaking Switzerland, but it was designed in a way enabling its adaptation for other regions. The choice of the items involved experts and lay volunteers. Construct validation and inter-method reliability were assessed by screening meal plans and by comparing the self-rated scores with food-record derived scores (kappa and Bland–Altman). SCASA (17 components) discriminated adequately balanced from imbalanced meal plans (93–95% and 44–46% of maximal score). Agreement between self-assessed and food record-based scores ranged between >90% (3 items), 80–89% (3 items), 70–79% (4 items), and <70% (5 items). The Bland–Altman plot showed a mean difference of −1.60 (95% CI −2.36 to −0.84), indicating a slight overestimation of the self assessed diet quality compared to the food record. SCASA offers a reliable way to assess overall diet quality without requiring burdensome data collection or nutrient calculations.

2020

Body image and disordered eating in older women :
Scientific paper ArODES
a tripartite sociocultural model

Isabelle Carrard, Stéphane Rothen, Rachel F. Rodgers

Eating behaviors,  2020, vol. 38, article 101412

Link to the publication

Summary:

Evidence suggests that body image concerns and disordered eating exist in women even at older ages. Few studies have examined the factors that are related with body image and eating concerns in this age group. In particular, the roles of sociocultural influences and thin-ideal internalization remain unclear. In the present study, we tested a modified tripartite sociocultural model of body image and disordered eating behaviors in a sample of 222 women aged 60 to 75 years, using structural equation modeling. After adjustment, a model similar to that observed in young women was a good fit to the data. Perceived pressure from the media revealed a direct relationship with body image concerns, as well as an indirect relationship mediated by thin-ideal internalization. Peer pressure was directly associated with body image concerns, and thin-ideal internalization was associated with dieting. In older women, pressure to conform to appearance ideals, in particular from the media, may impact the internalization of appearance ideals and body image concerns that might, in turn, increase disordered eating. The usefulness of sociocultural models for framing body image and eating concerns in older women implies that similar prevention interventions to those used in younger women could be adapted to fill a gap in available resources for this group.

Troubles des conduites alimentaires et obésité à l’adolescence :
Scientific paper ArODES
implications cliniques

Catherine Chamay Weber, Isabelle Carrard

Revue médicale suisse,  2020, vol. 16, no. 691, pp. 769-772

Link to the publication

Summary:

Binge eating disorder (BED) is associated with obesity and a quarter of adolescents with weight excess may suffer from the complete or a partial form of this disorder. A systematic screening for BED should be performed in this population as non-identification will complicate the patient’s management. A short screening tool named ADO-BEDs, was specifically developed for these adolescents. This latter tool appears to be useful to guide the medical consultation. As such, the health professional will be able to refer the Patient for further evaluation in case of BED suspicion. Health Professionals should be aware that body dissatisfaction or teasing triggered by the adolescent’s body are not an incentive to lose weight and increase the risk of eating disorders. Therefore, negative comments should be avoided in consultation.

2019

Associations between body dissatisfaction, importance of appearance, and aging anxiety with depression, and appearance-related behaviors in women in mid-life
Scientific paper ArODES

Isabelle Carrard, Marios Argyrides, Xaris Ioannou, Ingela Lundin Kvalem, Karin Waldherr, Diana Harcourt, Siobhan McArdle

Journal of women and aging,  2019

Link to the publication

Summary:

The impacts of body dissatisfaction have been widely studied among adolescent girls, but much less in women in mid-life. In this study, we evaluated the associations between body dissatisfaction, psychological health and behaviors used to manage age-related changes, in an online survey of 331 women aged 45–65. Body dissatisfaction, importance of appearance and aging anxiety were associated with higher depression scores. Moreover, importance of appearance and aging anxiety were associated with the probability of using “anti-aging” behaviors. It seems that with age, for a subgroup of women, the pressure to stay young may be added to that of staying thin.

La promotion d’une image corporelle positive chez les jeunes
Scientific paper ArODES

Isabelle Carrard, Sophie Bucher Della Torre, Michel Levine

Santé publique,  2019, vol. 31, no. 4, pp. 507-515

Link to the publication

Summary:

Introduction: positive body image is a recent concept that includes several facets, such as the acceptance of one’s body and the ability to take care of it with safe, nurturing methods. The purpose of this article is to explain this concept and its importance, and to review prevention and health promotion interventions that might be effective for its development. Method: We conducted a narrative review, including the latest publications that summarize the concept’s usefulness and the effectiveness of prevention programs that may contribute to the development of positive body image in youth. Results: The development of a positive body image is proposed a sa key factor that would allow integrated prevention of the entire spectrum of weight and eating issues in young people, as well as other problems such as depression. Three approaches used for prevention interventions developed primarily to target body dissatisfaction as a risk factor might promote certain aspects of positive body image. It would be advisable to adopt a universal and ecological prevention approach, in order to standardize the messages received throughout the social environment regarding healthy eating, an active lifestyle, and respect for the diversity of weight, shape, and beauty. Conclusion: This review highlights the importance of positive body image for public health, as well as the various preventive interventions that have proven effective for youth and young adults, so that future developments can build on what has already been performed.

Factors associated with disordered eating behaviors and attitudes in older women
Scientific paper ArODES

Isabelle Carrard, Stéphane Rothen

Eating and weight disorders - studies on anorexia, bulimia and obesity,  2019, pp. 1-9

Link to the publication

Summary:

Purpose : The present study explored the potential factors associated with disordered eating behaviors and attitudes in older women. Methods : Women aged 60–75 years were recruited in the community (n = 203) and completed questionnaires. The Eating Disorder Examination-Questionnaire (EDE-Q) was used to evaluate disordered eating behaviors and attitudes. The independent variables were BMI, age, importance of appearance, importance of body competence, cognitive reappraisal, and fear of age-related appearance changes. Spearman correlation analyses and zero-inflated negative binomial regression models were used to analyze the data. Results : BMI was positively associated with EDE-Q restraint, EDE-Q eating concern, and EDE-Q frequency of objective binge-eating episodes. Importance of appearance was positively related to EDE-Q restraint, and fear of age-related appearance changes to EDE-Q eating concern and objective binge-eating episodes. Cognitive reappraisal was negatively associated with EDE-Q eating concern and excessive exercise in bivariate associations, but the relationships disappeared in the multivariate analyses. Conclusions : BMI, importance of appearance, and fear of age-related appearance changes turned out to be positively associated with eating disordered behaviors and attitudes, similarly to what can be observed in middle-aged samples. However, the role of cognitive reappraisal was unclear and should be investigated further.

2018

Desire to lose weight, dietary intake and psychological correlates among middle-aged and older women. The CoLaus study
Scientific paper ArODES

Isabelle Carrard, Maaike Kruseman, P. Marques-Vidal

Preventive medicine,  August 2018, vol. 113, pp. 41-50

Link to the publication

Summary:

Body dissatisfaction has been regularly associated with negative consequences on health of young women, but less is known regarding middle-aged or older women. However, body dissatisfaction in women has been seen for long as a “normative discontent” (i.e. widespread and chronic dissatisfaction) because of its high prevalence among all age categories. The goal of this study was to explore the relationships between the desire to lose weight, energy intake and psychological health in community-dwelling women issued from the second wave (cross-sectional data) of the cohort study CoLaus (2009–2012, Switzerland), taking age categories (40–59 and 60–80) and body mass index (BMI, normal and overweight/obese) into account. Results showed that the desire to lose weight was common even in women with normal BMI and whatever the age category. Women with normal BMI who wished to lose weight reported lower energy and protein intake per kg of body weight, more signs of depression and less satisfaction with their quality of life than those who did not wish to lose weight in both age groups. The desire to lose weight was similarly associated with psychological health in women with overweight/obesity, in both age categories as well. These results indicate that the desire to lose weight may be associated with an impaired psychological health also in middle-aged and older women, even in those with normal BMI. This should not be considered as normal by health care professionals but as a possible indicator of psychological health and of the capacity to comply with dietary recommendations.

Effects of a Weight Loss Program on Metabolic Syndrome, Eating Disorders and Psychological Outcomes :
Scientific paper ArODES
Mediation by Endocannabinoids ?

Zoltan Pataky, Isabelle Carrard, Valerie Gay, Aurélien Thomas, Anne Carpentier, Elisabetta Bobbioni-Harsch, Alain Golay

Obesity facts,  2018, vol. 11, no. 2, pp. 144-156

Link to the publication

Summary:

Objective: To evaluate the effects of weight loss on endocannabinoids, cardiometabolic and psychological parameters, eating disorders (ED) as well as quality of life (QoL) and to elucidate the role of endocannabinoids in metabolic syndrome (MS). Methods: In total, 114 patients with obesity were prospectively included in a 12-month weight loss program. Plasma endocannabinoids were measured by mass spectrometry; ED, psychological and QoL-related parameters were evaluated by self-reported questionnaires; physical activity was measured by accelerometer. Nutritional assessment was done by a 3-day food diary. Results: Among completers (n = 87), body weight decreased in 35 patients (–9.1 ± 8.6 kg), remained stable in 39 patients, and increased in 13 patients (+5.8 ± 3.4 kg). 75% of patients with MS at baseline were free of MS at follow-up, and their baseline plasma N-palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) values were significantly lower when compared to patients with persisting MS. At baseline, there was a positive relationship between PEA and waist circumference (p = 0.005, R 2 = 0.08), fasting glucose (p < 0.0001, R 2 = 0.12), total cholesterol (p = 0.001, R 2 = 0.11), triglycerides (p = 0.001, R 2 = 0.11), LDL-cholesterol (p = 0.03, R 2 = 0.05) as well as depression score (p = 0.002, R 2 = 0.29). Conclusion: Plasma PEA might play a role in metabolic improvement after weight loss. Even in subjects without weight loss, a multidisciplinary intervention improves psychological outcomes, ED, and QoL.

2017

Impact d'un atelier vocal sur la perception corporelle et vocale de soignants
Scientific paper ArODES

Anne Bolli, Isabelle Carrard, Alain Golay

Éducation thérapeutique du patient = Therapeutic patient education,  December 2017, vol. 9, no. 2, article 20201

Link to the publication

Summary:

Introduction : Perceptual dimension in therapeutic education is seldom investigated. We have long known that the singing voice has a positive impact on the physiological, emotional and social systems of the person who emits. Objectives : Our study focuses on the changes in body and speech perception of 60 health care providers after a vocal workshop. Listening and voice perception of others as well as the expression of a clear rejection (“no”) were also studied. Results : The results collected using a questionnaire (before and after vocal workshop) indicate that health care providers feel significantly lighter, more available, less cramped, more peaceful, less concerned with a further breathing after vocal workshop and a large majority say they feel their voice in their bodies. Perception of their own voice is also changed significantly positive (pleasant, empathetic, free, powerful volume). Conclusion : Body and voice perception is changed after a vocal workshop as well as the voices of others.

Long-term weight maintenance strategies are experienced as a burden by persons who have lost weight compared to persons with a lifetime normal, stable weight
Scientific paper ArODES

Maaike Kruseman, Noémi Schmutz, Isabelle Carrard

Obesity facts,  2017, vol. 10, no. 4, pp. 373–385

Link to the publication

Summary:

Objective : To assess dietary intake, eating patterns, physical activity and eating behaviors, and to explore strategies and perceptions of the experience of weight maintenance in weight loss maintainers (weight loss maintenance (WLM) ≥ 10% weight loss maintained for ≥1 year) and in matched controls with a lifetime stable normal weight. Methods : Volunteers (32) were recruited by a snowball procedure in this cross-sectional, mixed-methods study. Diet, physical activity, and eating behaviors were assessed with validated questionnaires. Strategies and experiences were investigated during interviews. Descriptive coding, thematic analysis (qualitative data) as well as descriptive analysis and t-tests (quantitative data) were performed. Results: Both groups had similar energy and macronutrient consumption. Those in the WLM group reported higher levels of exercise and scored higher on several dimensions of eating disorders. Four themes – « food choices », « quantities » and « portion control », « physical activity », and « burden » - emerged from the qualitative data. Both groups used similar weight maintenance strategies, but those in the WLM group experienced a higher burden, expressing effortful control which contrasted with the control group's confidence in their internal cues. Conclusion : Our results show an additional burden related with maintaining weight loss compared to keeping a stable normal weight. They provide evidence to devise interventions that will address the difficulty of regulating intake.

Assessment of dysfunctional cognitions in binge-eating disorder :
Scientific paper ArODES
factor structure and validity of the mizes anorectic cognitions questionnaire-revised (MAC-R)

Isabelle Carrard, Stéphane Rothen, Maaike Kruseman, Yasser Khazaal

Frontiers in psychology,  February 2017, vol. 8, pp. 1-10

Link to the publication

Summary:

Background: Dysfunctional cognitions regarding weight and shape and their implications for self esteem are considered core features of anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa. However, they have also been associated with the severity of binge eating disorder (BED). Therefore, they should be screened with appropriate instruments to tailor treatment to individual patient needs. The Mizes Anorectic Cognitions-Revised (MAC-R) is a self-report questionnaire that lists dysfunctional cognitions related to three hypothesized core beliefs typical of the psychopathology of eating disorders: weight and eating as the basis of approval from others; the belief that rigid self-control is fundamental to self-worth; and the rigidity of weight- and eating-regulation efforts. Objectives: The goal of the study was to confirm the factor structure and to assess the validity of the MAC-R among a sample that met full-threshold and subthreshold criteria for BED. Methods: We used data of women meeting full-threshold (n = 94) and subthreshold (n = 22) criteria for BED to conduct confirmatory factor analyses and to compute Spearman’s correlations, in order to assess factorial, convergent, and discriminant validity. Results: Two models having a structure of three factors with or without a total score proved to be acceptable. The MAC-R total score was correlated with questionnaires assessing dimensions related to eating disorder psychopathology, adding to the validity of the questionnaire. Conclusion: These results were similar to those found in studies on the psychometric properties of the MAC among samples with anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa, encouraging the use of the MAC-R as a research or clinical tool in order to further document the core beliefs underlying BED.

Development and evaluation of e-CA, an electronic mobile-based food record
Scientific paper ArODES

Sophie Bucher Della Torre, Isabelle Carrard, Eddy Farina, Brigitta Danuser, Maaike Kruseman

Nutrients,  2017, vol. 9, no. 1, article 76

Link to the publication

Summary:

Measures that capture diet as validly and reliably as possible are cornerstones of nutritional research, and mobile-based devices offer new opportunities to improve and simplify data collection. The balance between precision and acceptability of these data collection tools remains debated, and rigorous validations are warranted. Our objective was to develop and evaluate an electronic mobile based food record for a research setting. We developed e-CA, which includes almost 900 foods and beverages classified in 14 categories and 60 subcategories. e-CA was evaluated using three different methods: (1) usability and acceptability through a logbook and qualitative interviews; (2) dietary intake accuracy through comparison with 2 unannounced 24-h phone recalls on overlapping days; and (3) reliability and process comparison with a paper-based food record in a laboratory setting with a randomized design. e-CA proved to be intuitive and practical and was perceived as modern, trendy, and fun. Comparisons of e-CA with 24-h telephone recalls or paper-based food records in a laboratory setting with two small convenient samples showed good agreement but highlighted the well-known difficulty of estimating portion sizes and a necessary learning time to use the app. e-CA is a functional tool that has the potential to facilitate food intake measurement for research by increasing the pleasure of using the food record tool and reducing the perceived burden for the participants. It also decreases the workload, costs and the risk of transcription errors for researchers.

2016

Qualitative analysis of the role of self-weighing as a strategy of weight control for weight-loss maintainers in comparison with a normal, stable weight group
Scientific paper ArODES

Isabelle Carrard, Maaike Kruseman

Appetite,  October 2016, vol. 105, pp. 604-610

Link to the publication

Summary:

Self-weighing seems to have a primary role in weight-loss maintenance. The use of this strategy may help correct even slight weight regain and contribute to long-term weight stability. However, self-weighing has also been associated with negative psychological health consequences in specific subgroups. This study aimed to explore the use and the behavioral and psychological consequences of self-weighing in a group of weight-loss maintainers (WLoMs). We chose a qualitative design to conduct this investigation. Eighteen WLoMs were interviewed and compared to a matched comparison group of 18 participants with a lifelong normal stable weight (NSW). Analyses showed that most WLoMs needed regular self-weighing to be aware of their weight. The weight displayed on the scale helped WLoMs sustain the continuous efforts needed to maintain weight loss and also at times triggered corrective actions that were sometimes drastic. Weight changes generated both negative and positive affect among WLoMs, who could experience anxiety because of self-weighing or have their self-esteem impaired in the case of weight gain. In comparison, the NSW group rarely used self-weighing. They relied on a conscious way of living to control their weight and needed fewer strategies. NSW participants simply went back to their routine when they felt a slight increase in their weight, without experiencing consequences on their mood or self-esteem. Regular self-weighing as a component of weight-loss maintenance should be encouraged to help WLoMs regulate their food and physical activity, provided that potential consequences on psychological well-being, including self-esteem, are screened and addressed when needed.

2015

Factor structure of a French version of the eating disorder examination-questionnaire among women with and without binge eating disorder symptoms
Scientific paper ArODES

Isabelle Carrard, Marie My Lien Rebetez, Olivia Mobbs, Martial Van der Linden

Eating and weight disorders - studies on anorexia, bulimia and obesity,  2015, vol. 20, pp. 137-144

Link to the publication

Summary:

The Eating Disorder Examination-Questionnaire (EDE-Q) is a self-report questionnaire that is widely used to investigate the core features of eating disorders. The EDE-Q is derived from the Eating Disorder Examination, a semi-structured interview considered as the “gold standard” in the assessment of eating disorders. To verify the factor structure of both instruments, originally composed of four subscales, factor analyses have been conducted with various samples. Heterogeneous results were found. Because no study had investigated the factor structure of the EDE-Q in individuals with binge eating disorder, the goal of our study was to fill this gap. We started with a review of the studies on the EDE and EDE-Q factor structure to decide which models to compare. Among 21 studies that were identified, three models had been replicated several times. We compared these three models—a 22-item, 3-factor model, a brief 7-item, 3-factor model and a brief 8-item, 1-factor model—in two samples of participants, one with threshold and subthreshold criteria for binge eating disorder (N = 116) and one without eating disorders (N = 161). Confirmatory factor analysis revealed a good fit for the brief 7-item, 3-factor model for both populations, whereas other solutions were not acceptable. Cronbach’s alpha coefficients of the three factors were acceptable to good, ranging between 0.714 and 0.953. The group with binge eating disorder symptoms had significantly higher scores for each factor. This brief 7-item instrument might be useful for screening or short interventions.

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