Eating Disorders

What is an Eating Disorder

An eating disorder is a mental health condition characterized by abnormal eating habits that negatively affect a person's physical and mental health. types of eating disorders include anorexia nervosa, bulia nervosa, binge eating disorder. It important to seek professional help if you or someone know is struggling with an eating disorder.

Types of Eating Disorders

Bulimia

Anorexia

Binge Eating Disorder

Other

Bulimia

Bulimia is an eating disorder characterized by binge eating followed by pur. People with bulimia often feel a lack of control during their binge episodes and then try to compensate for the overeating by inducing vomiting, using laxatives, or engaging in excessive exercise. It is a serious mental health condition that requires professional treatment.

If you are experiencing Bulimia, you may feel...

Shameful and Guilty

Bulimia can be a difficult and isolating experience, and it's common to feel guilty and ashamed.

Hatred towards your body

Bulimia can cause feelings of hatred towards your body. The cycle of binge and purging can lead to physical discomfort and negative emotions, which can contribute to a negative body image and self-esteem.

You may feel like you are Fat

Bulimia can cause individuals to feel fat due to the binge-purge cycle that can lead to weight fluctuations and body dysmorphia.

Feel scared of others finding out

Bulimia can cause fear of family and friends finding out about their symptoms.

Depressed and anxious

Bulimia can cause feelings of depression and anxiety. The physical emotional toll of the disorder lead to a range of negative emotions, including low self-esteem, guilt, and shame.

Lonely

Bulimia can indeed cause feelings of loneliness. The secrecy and shame associated with the disorder can lead to social isolation, while the physical and emotional toll it takes can it difficult to maintain relationships.

Quick or sudden changes in your mood

Bulimia can cause fluctuations in mood. The binge-purge cycle can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and anxiety, which affect a person's emotional state. Additionally, the physical effects of bulimia, such as electrolyte imbalances, can also contribute to mood changes.

Numb

Numbness or tingling in the hands and feet. This may due to a lack of essential vitamins and minerals in the body, which can occur as a result of purging behaviours. It's important to seek professional help if you're experiencing any symptoms related to bulimia.

Physical symptoms of Bulimia...

Eating lots of food in one sitting (binge)

You may binge to reduce stress and ease anxiety.

Go through daily cycles of eating, feeling guilty, purging, feeling hungry and eating again.

The disorder have a significant impact on daily life, including physical health problems, social isolation, and emotional distress. People with bulimia may experience shame and guilt related to their eating behaviours, which can make it to maintain daily routines.

Binge on foods that you think are bad for you

People with symptoms of bulimia often binge on foods that are considered unhealthy or high in calories. This is because the urge to binge is often accompanied by a feeling of loss of control, leading to the consumption of large amounts of food in a short period of time.

Starve yourself in between binges

People with bulimia symptoms may engage in periods of restrictive eating between binges. This behaviour is often referred to as "binge-purge-restrict" cycle and can have serious physical and emotional consequences.

Eat in Secret

It is common for individuals with bulimia to eat in secret due to feelings of shame and guilt associated with their eating behaviours.

Crave only certain types of food

People suffering from bulimia symptoms may experience cravings for certain foods, but it's important to note that this can vary from person to person. Some individuals may crave high-calorie or high-fat foods, while others may crave sugary or salty snacks.

Try to get rid of food you've eaten (purge) by making yourself sick, using laxatives or exercising a lot.

Anorexia

Anorexia is an eating disorder characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight, a distorted image, and a persistent restriction of food intake. It can lead to severe physical and mental health problems, and in some, can be life. It's important to seek professional help if you or someone know is struggling with anorexia.

If you are experiencing Anorexia, you may feel...

Unable to think about anything other than food

One of the common symptoms anorexia is obsessive thinking about food, which can lead to restrictive eating habits and severe weight loss.

Like you need to be perfect or you're never good enough

Individuals with anorexia often feel the need to be perfect and have an intense fear of gaining weight.

Lonely, especially if no one knows about your diagnosis

It is common for individuals with anorexia to experience feelings of loneliness and isolation as they navigate their diagnosis and treatment. The physical and emotional effects of the disorder can make it difficult to connect with others and maintain relationships.

A need for control, that you feel you lose by eating

Individuals with symptoms of anorexia may feel like they are losing control or giving up something by eating. This can be due to a distorted body image and a fear of gaining weight.

That you're hiding things from family and friends

It is common for individuals with anorexia to feel like they are hiding their behaviours and symptoms from friends and family. This can be to feelings of shame, guilt, or fear of judgment.

That you are fat and scared of putting on weight

Individuals with anorexia often have an intense fear of gaining weight or becoming overweight even if they are underweight.

That losing weight isn't enough

It is common for individuals with anorexia to feel like losing weight is never enough, even when they have an unhealthy weight or are underweight.

Like you want to disappear

It is common for individuals with anorexia to experience a desire to disappear or become invisible. This feeling may stem from a desire control their body and weight, as well as a sense shame or inadequacy.

Angry if someone challenges you about your weight or food intake

Mentioning weight could trigger negative emotions such as anger or shame. It's best avoid discussing weight unless it's necessary for medical reasons and to approach the topic with care and compassion.

Tired and not interested in things you normally enjoy

A person with symptoms of anorexia may experience a decreased interest in activities they once enjoyed. This can due to the physical and emotional toll that the disorder on the body and mind.

Like you cannot see a way out, even depressed or suicidal

A person with symptoms of anorexia may feel like there is no way due to the overwhelming nature of the disorder. However, it's important to remember that recovery is possible and seeking professional help can make a significant difference in their journey towards healing.

Anxious or panicky, especially around mealtimes

Individuals with anorexia may feel anxious or picky around meal times. This is because may have a fear of weight or losing control over their eating habits.

Like it's an achievement to deny yourself food or over-exercise

It is common for individuals with anorexia to feel a sense of achievement or control when they deny themselves food. It is also common for individuals with anorexia to engage in excessive exercise as a means of burning calories and losing weight.

Physical symptoms of Anorexia...

Reduce your food intake or totally stop eating

Someone with symptoms of anorexia may reduce their food intake or stop eating altogether. It is a serious mental health condition that can have severe physical and emotional consequences.

Spend a lot of time counting calories of everything you eat

It's possible for someone with anorexia symptoms to spend time counting calories as it's a common behaviour associated with the disorder. However, it's important to approach the topic with sensitivity and avoid triggering language or promoting harmful behaviours.

Hide food or secretly throw it away

It is common for individuals with symptoms of anorexia to hide food or throw it away as a way to control their food intake and maintain their weight.

Avoid 'dangerous' foods, like those with high amounts of calories or fat

It is possible for someone with symptoms of anorexia to avoid foods that are high in calories or fats However, it is important to note that anorexia is a complex mental health disorder and each individual's experience may vary.

Read recipe books and cook meals for others, without eating them yourself

Someone with symptoms of anorexia might cook meals but not eat them because they may feel a sense of control and satisfaction from preparing food for others, without feeling the pressure to consume it themselves. Additionally, they may experience anxiety or guilt around eating, leading them to avoid food altogether.

Use drugs that claim to reduce your appetite or speed up digestion

It is not uncommon for individuals with symptoms of anorexia to use medication to reduce appetite or speed up digestion. However, it is important to note that these medications can have serious side effects and may not address the underlying issues causing the eating disorder.

Spend your time thinking about losing weight, checking and weighing yourself

A person with symptoms of anorexia spends time thinking about losing weight and checking their weight because they have an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted image. They may believe that they are overweight even when they are underweight, and they may feel a sense of control and accomplishment when they see the number on scale go down. However, this behaviour can be harmful and lead to serious health consequences.

Exercise a lot, with strict rules about how much you must do

People with anorexia often exercise excessively and follow strict rules around food intake as a way to control their weight and shape. This behavior can be a symptom of the disorder, as individuals with anorexia often have a distorted body image and an fear of gaining weight. Exercise can also be used as a way to compensate for eating, allowing individuals to feel like they are burning off calories and maintaining control over their body.

Develop very structured eating times

Someone with symptoms of anorexia may develop very structured eating times as a way to maintain control over their food intake. By sticking to a strict schedule, they can ensure that they are not consuming more calories than they feel comfortable with. Additionally, having a set routine can provide a sense of predictability and stability in an otherwise chaotic and stressful situation.

Make up rules about food – for example listing 'good' and 'bad' types or only eating certain colours of food

Someone with symptoms of anorexia may make up rules about good or bad food or only eating colors as a way to exert control over their eating habits. These rules can provide a sense of structure and order in a life that may feel chaotic or overwhelming. Additionally, they may believe that following these rules will help them achieve their desired weight or body shape. However, these rules can be harmful and contribute to the development and maintenance of an eating disorder.

You may experience...

Weigh less than you do normally, or should do for your age and height

Anorexia causes underweight due to restrictive eating habits and distorted body image.

Lose weight very fast

People with anorexia may lose weight very fast due to a combination of factors, including restricted food intake, excessive exercise, and a high metabolic rate. The body may also break down muscle tissue for energy, leading further weight loss.

Become physically underdeveloped, especially if anorexia starts before puberty

Anorexia can lead to physical underdevelopment due to malnutrition. When someone with anorexia restricts their food intake, their body doesn't receive enough nutrients to support growth and development. This can result stunted growth, delayed puberty, and other physical complications.

Feel very cold and weak

Someone with anorexia may feel cold and weak due to the lack of nutrients and energy in their body. Anorexia can cause a significant decrease in body weight, which can lead to lower metabolic rate and reduced ability to regulate body temperature.

Move around more slowly than normal

An individual with anorexia may move slower than normal due to the lack of energy and nutrients in their body. The body is not receiving enough fuel to function properly, which can result in fatigue and weakness. Additionally, anorexia can lead to muscle loss, which can further contribute to a slower pace of movement.

Have irregular periods or none at all, if you usually menstruate

When the body is not getting enough nutrients, it goes into survival mode and shuts down non-essential functions, such as menstruation. This can lead to irregular or no periods in individuals with anorexia. Additionally, low body weight and body fat can also to menstrual irregularities.

Lose your hair or start to have very thin hair

Anorexia can cause hair loss due to the lack of nutrients that the body needs to maintain healthy growth. When the body is not receiving enough calories and nutrients, it prioritizes the organs that are essential for survival, such as the heart and brain, over the hair follicles. This can lead to weakened hair shafts, breakage, and eventually hair loss.

Develop fine fuzzy hair on your arms and face, called lanugo

Individuals with anorexia nervosa may develop lanugo as a result of their body's response to malnutrition. Lanugo is the body's way of trying to keep itself warm due to the lack of body fat, which is a common symptom of anorexia.

Lose interest in sex, or find you're not able to have or enjoy sex

People with anorexia may lose interest in sex due to a variety of factors, such as hormonal imbalances, physical weakness, and psychological distress.

Find it hard to concentrate

Someone with anorexia may find it hard to concentrate due to the lack of nutrients and energy their body is receiving. The brain requires a certain amount of energy to function properly and when the body is in a state of starvation, the brain may not be getting enough energy to focus and concentrate effectively. Additionally, anxiety and depression, which are common in individuals with anorexia, can also contribute to difficulty concentrating.

Develop fragile bones or problems like osteoporosis – this is a disease that makes your bones break easily

People with anorexia often have inadequate intake of nutrients, including calcium and vitamin D, which are essential for bone health. This can lead to a decrease in bone density and an increased risk of osteoporosis, a condition in which bones become weak and brittle.

Binge Eating Disorder

Binge eating disorder is a serious mental health condition characterized by recurrent episodes of consuming large amounts of food in a short period of time, accompanied by a sense of loss of control over eating. People with binge eating disorder often feel ashamed and guilty about their eating habits, which can lead to emotional distress and negative health consequences. Treatment for binge eating disorder typically involves combination of therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes.

If you have Binge eating Disorder, you may feel...

Out of control

Binge eating disorder can cause individuals to feel out of control when it comes to their eating habits. People with this disorder often experience intense cravings for food and may feel compelled to eat large amounts of food in a short of time, even they are not hungry. can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and embarrassment, which can further perpetuate the cycle of binge eating.

As if you can't stop eating

The disorder is characterized by recurrent episodes of eating large amounts of food in a period of time, accompanied by feelings of guilt or shame. The urge to eat can be overwhelming and difficult to control, leading to a cycle of bingeing and negative emotions.

Ashamed of how much you eat

People with binge eating disorder may feel ashamed of how much they eat due to societal stigma and misconceptions surrounding overeating. They may also feel guilty for not being able to control their eating habits, leading to feelings of shame and self-blame. This can further perpetuate the cycle of binge eating and negative emotions.

Lonely and empty

People with this disorder often turn to food as a way cope with negative emotions, which can create a cycle of shame guilt. This can lead to social isolation and a sense of disconnection from others, exacerbating feelings of loneliness and emptiness.

Very low, even worthless

The individual may feel like they have no control over their eating habits, leading to a sense of powerlessness and self-loathing. This can result in a negative self-image and feelings of worthlessness.

Unhappy about your body

People with binge eating disorder often struggle with negative body image. They may feel unhappy about their body size, shape, or weight, and may engage in behaviours such as avoiding mirrors or wearing loose clothing to hide their body. This can lead to feelings of shame, guilt, and low-esteem.

Stressed and anxious

The fear of gaining weight or not being able control their eating habits can cause significant distress. Additionally, social situations or emotional triggers may lead binge episodes, which can further exacerbate feelings of anxiety and stress.

If you experience Binge Eating Disorder, you might...

Eat large amounts all at once (bingeing)

This behaviour is often triggered by emotional distress, such as stress, anxiety, or depression.

Eat without really thinking about it, especially when doing other things

Someone with binge eating disorder might eat without thinking about it or realizing it they often experience a loss of control during a binge episode. This means that they may feel compelled to eat large amounts of food quickly without being fully aware of what they are doing

Often eat unhealthy food

Someone with binge eating disorder might eat unhealthy foods often because they experience intense cravings and a loss of control over their eating habits.

Eat for comfort when you feel stressed, upset, bored or unhappy

Binge eating disorder is a complex mental health condition that can triggered by various factors, including stress, boredom, and emotional distress. People with this disorder may turn to food as a way to cope with negative emotions and find comfort in the act of eating.

Eat until you feel uncomfortably full or sick

People with binge eating disorder may eat until they are uncomfortably full or sick as a way to cope with negative emotions or to feel a sense of control.

Hide how much you are eating

People with binge eating disorder may hide how much they are eating due to feelings of shame and guilt. They may also fear judgment from others and worry about being seen as out of. Hiding their eating habits can also be a way to maintain a sense of control over their disorder.

Find dieting hard whenever you try it.

Dieting can be a trigger for binge eating behaviours, as it can create a of deprivation and restriction. It's important for individuals with binge eating disorder to seek help and support in managing their symptoms and developing a healthy relationship with food.

While experiencing binge eating disorder, you might:

Put on weight

People with this disorder often consume large amounts of food in a short period of time, even when they are not hungry. This cause them to consume more calories than their body needs, leading to weight gain over time.

Feel sick a lot

Binge eating disorder is a serious condition that can cause a range of physical and emotional symptoms. One common symptom is feeling sick or nauseous after a binge. This is because the body is not used to processing such a large amount of food at once, which can lead to discomfort and digestive issues.

Have shortness of breath

Binge eating disorder can lead to obesity, which can cause shortness of breath due to the extra weight putting pressure on the lungs diaphragm. Additionally, binge eating can cause acid reflux, which also contribute to breathing difficulties.

Get sugar highs and lows, which means having bursts of energy then feeling very tired

When someone with this disorder consumes large amounts of sugary foods, they may experience a "sugar high" followed by a "sugar low." This is because the body releases insulin to help regulate blood levels, which can cause rapid drop in blood sugar levels after a. This can lead feelings of fatigue, irritability, and cravings for more sugary foods, which can perpetuate the cycle of binge eating.

Develop health problems, such as acid reflux and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

Binge eating disorder can lead to the development irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) acid reflux due to the excessive intake of food. Overeating can cause the stomach to expand, leading to pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter which can cause acid reflux. Additionally, binge eating can cause changes in gut bacteria, leading to inflammation and digestive issues such as IBS.

Develop problems linked to being overweight – for example type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or joint and muscle pain

People with binge eating disorder are more likely to develop problems linked to being overweight due to the excessive amount of food they consume during binges. This can lead to weight gain, obesity, and higher risk of health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, and high pressure.

Pica

Pica is a disorder characterized by an appetite for substances that are largely non-nutritive, such as ice, hair, paper, drywall or paint, sharp objects, metal, stones, soil, glass, feces, and chalk. The condition is more common in children and pregnant women, and it can lead to serious health problems if left untreated.

Rumination disorder

Rumination disorder is a condition where a person persistently regurgitates and re-chews food that has already been swallowed. This behavior is not due to a medical condition or a lack of appetite, but rather a psychological issue. It can lead to malnutrition, weight loss, and other health.

Diabulimia

Diabulimia is a term used to describe an eating disorder that affects people with type 1 diabetes. It involves the deliberate manipulation of insulin doses in order to lose weight This can lead to serious health complications, including damage, kidney disease, and even death. It is important for those with diabetes to seek professional help if they suspect they may be struggling with diabulimia.

Advice for Family and Friends

Let them know you are there

Letting someone with an eating disorder know that you are there for them can be incredibly. It shows that you care and are willing to support them through their struggles. This can a sense of comfort safety, which is especially when dealing with such difficult and often isol condition.

Try not to get angry or frustrated.

Keeping calm can be helpful for someone with an eating disorder in several ways. Firstly, it can help to reduce anxiety and stress levels, which are often triggers disordered eating behaviors. Secondly, it can help to promote a sense of mindfulness and self-awareness, allowing individuals to better recognize and manage their thoughts and emotions around food. Finally, it can help to foster a more positive and compassionate mindset, which is essential for long-term recovery from an eating disorder.

Don't make assumptions.

Assuming that someone is "healthy" or "unhealthy" based on their appearance or eating habits can be harmful and perpetuate harmful stereotypes. Instead, it's important to approach each individual with empathy and understanding, and to avoid making assumptions about their experiences or needs. By doing so, we can create a more and inclusive environment for those struggling with eating disorders.

Include them in social activities

Eating disorders can be isolating and lonely, so being around others who understand what they're going through can be beneficial. Additionally, being included in social activities and events can help individuals with eating disorders feel more connected and less alone.

Keep meal times as stress-free as possible.

To keep meal times stress-free for someone with an eating disorder, it's important to create a calm and supportive environment. Avoid discussing food or weight-related topics during meal times and instead focus on positive conversation topics. Encourage the person to eat at a comfortable pace and offer support and encouragement throughout the meal. It's also important to avoid making comments about the amount of food being eaten or the person's body size or shape.

Find safe ways to talk about it.

When discussing eating disorders, it's important to approach the topic with sensitivity and care. Additionally, it's important to avoid making assumptions or judgments about someone's experience with an eating disorder. Providing resources and support can also be helpful in creating a safe and informative conversation.

Help them find good information and avoid bad sources.

Helping someone with an eating disorder find useful information can be incredibly beneficial for their recovery. By providing them with accurate and reliable resources, they can learn more about their condition and how to it. This can lead to a greater understanding of their own behaviours and thought patterns, and ultimately help them make positive changes towards a healthier relationship with food and their body.

Share stories from other people.

Sharing stories from other people who have struggled with an eating disorder can be powerful tool in helping those who are currently struggling. Hearing about the experiences of others can help individuals feel less alone and more understood, while also providing hope and inspiration for recovery. Additionally, hearing about the challenges and successes of others can help individuals gain new insights and perspectives on their own struggles, which can be invaluable in the recovery process.

Encourage them to seek professional help.

Encouraging someone with an eating disorder to seek help can be a crucial step towards their recovery. Seeking professional help can provide them with the necessary tools and support to overcome their struggles and improve their overall well-being. It's important approach the conversation with empathy and understanding, and to offer resources and support throughout their journey towards recovery.