Disordered Eating Facts

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 See your health care provider for a referral. 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.