What is Chewing and Spitting Disorder (CHSP) and How to Get Support
Although CHSP falls under the category of OFSED (other specified feeding and eating disorders), CHSP follows a pattern of disordered eating behaviors. CHSP stands for chew and spit disorder, where individuals chew and spit their food out instead of swallowing.
By: Regina Colie
While the condition is not formally recognized in the DSM-5-TR, individuals struggling with this disorder should seek support for themselves or someone they love from healthcare professionals.
What Is CHSP?
Chewing and spitting disorder is a lesser-known eating disorder that occurs when individuals regularly chew their food, but instead of swallowing, they spit it out. Research shows that CHSP follows a similar pattern to binge eating disorder. However, the latest edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Eating Disorders (DSM-5-TR) does not feature CHSP as an eating disorder. These behaviors come about as a way to alter or control body image or size. CHSP can come from other mental health disorders like anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and depression.
Some signs of CHSP include eating alone, lying about foods eaten, and avoiding gatherings with others that involve meals. CHSP can cause individuals to experience dental issues such as cavities, gum disease, and gastrointestinal problems. People who engage in CHSP behaviors often see them as an addiction. Even though CHSP can be overwhelming and troubling, there are many ways for individuals to receive support and treatment for this disorder.
Getting Support For CHSP
The best way to get support for chewing and spitting disorders is to seek advice and treatment from your healthcare professional, such as a doctor or therapist. Look for signs such as discolored teeth, excessive exercise behaviors, and fear of eating in public with others. Cognitive behavioral therapy can help individuals with their compulsions of chewing and spitting. Individuals can also engage in mindful and intuitive eating practices to help change their perspectives on eating without feeling guilty or shameful.
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This post was written by BALANCE Blog Contributor, Regina Colie (she/her).
Regina Colie is currently pursuing her Masters in General Psychology at The New School For Social Research. She is interested in working with women who have eating disorders and postpartum depression. Upon her graduation from Marymount Manhattan College, she had the opportunity to be published in Dr. Nava Silton’s book, The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Child, Adolescent, and Adult Development. Her previous work has been featured in Project HEAL, BALANCE, Olive Branch Nutrition, and Nourishing NY.
References
Ekern, J. (2023). How do I know if I need help for chewing and spitting disorder? Eating Disorder Hope. https://www.eatingdisorderhope.com/blog/help-chewing-spitting-disorder
Clerkin, B. (2023, March 22). Chew and Spit Disorder (CHSP) | Signs, effects & treatment. Within Health. Retrieved August 10, 2023, from https://withinhealth.com/learn/articles/chew-and-spit-disorder-chsp
Tait, A. (2016, July 6). The eating disorder no one ever talks about. Refinery29. Retrieved August 10, 2023, from https://www.refinery29.com/en-us/2016/06/115857/chewing-and-spitting-eating-disorder
Ceds, L. M. P. (2022). Understanding chewing and spitting in eating disorders. Verywell Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/chew-and-spit-eating-disorder-behavior-4100664