D i s o r d e r e d   E a t i n g   F a c t s

Definition

Eating disorders are extreme expressions of a range of weight and food issues. Some symptoms are food obsession, eating large amounts of food, intentional vomiting after meals and self-starvation in order to lose weight or maintain normal weight. Food is not the primary problem, but a symptom of a serious emotional problem that results in loss of self-control, obsession, anxiety, guilt and depression.

Types

• Anorexia Nervosa:
  Self-starvation and obsession with thinness. Body weight is below normal.
  
  
• Bulimia Nervosa:
  Repeated episodes of binge eating (eating large amounts of food) followed by purging (using vomiting, laxatives and/or diuretics to avoid weight gain). Body weight is usually normal to overweight.
  
  
• Binge and Compulsive Eating Disorder:
  Impulsive over-eating or continuous eating which is not followed by purging. Body weight may vary from normal to mild, moderate, or severe obesity.
  
  
• Other Eating Disorders:
  Abnormal eating patterns that do not quite fit the criteria of anorexia nervosa but may still be life-threatening.

Warning Signs

• Always dieting
  
• Denial of hunger
  
• Excessive exercise
  
• Excessive weight gain/loss
  
• Extreme concern with weight
  
• Regular use of laxatives
  
• Fear of weight gain
  
• Food obsession
  
• Refusal to eat
  
• Secret eating
  
• View self as fat when very thin

What to Do

• Seek professional help.
  
  
• A multidisciplinary medical team is most effective (e.g., medical doctor, registered dietitian, psychiatrist or psychologist).
  
  
• Expect resistance: people with eating disorders usually do not believe they need help.
  
  
• Realize that recovery may take several months to several years.
  
  
• Early detection and treatment are crucial for successful recovery.