What is an eating disorder? An eating disorder is an obsession with food and weight that harms a person's well-being. Although we all worry about our weight sometimes, people suffering from an eating disorder go to extremes in monitoring their food intake. For more information on specific types of eating disorders, please see Eating Disorder Information.
What do I do if I think my friend has an eating disorder? Set aside a time to speak to your friend(s) in private so that you can openly discuss your concerns in a caring and respectful way. Avoid being critical, giving simple solutions to treat their eating disorder, imposing your judgments on to them, or rushing them through their process of recovery. It is important to express your unconditional support to your friend(s) and let them know that you will continue to be there for them. It is important to keep in mind that your friend(s) needs you, even if they act angry or deny your concerns.
What causes an eating disorder? While eating disorders might start with an obsession with food, they are caused by much deeper issues that arise from genetic, emotional, behavioral, psychosocial, and personality factors. It is important to keep in mind that the cause and purpose of a persons disorder is highly variable. However, most commonly, those who suffer from eating disorders often use food to suppress their distressing feelings and emotions.
Is there a treatment for eating disorders? Absolutely, eating disorders and the underlying issues behind a persons disorder can be treated. The sooner a person seeks out treatment, the better the outcomes are for recovery. Because of their complexity, eating disorders require a comprehensive treatment plan involving psychological counseling, medical care, and nutrition therapy. At the time of diagnosis, the clinician must determine whether the person is in immediate danger and in requirement of hospitalization.
Can eating disorders be prevented? Parents who maintain healthy body images within the home while providing nutritious food choices for their families can help to prevent the development of an eating disorder. Parents can be powerful role models by displaying positive attitudes about body image and eating. While eating disorders have a high genetic component1, building a positive foundation with food and body image is essential.
What are the warning signs of an eating disorder? Unnatural concern about body weight (even if the person is not overweight)
Obsession with calories, fat grams and food
Use of any medicines to prevent weight gain (diet pills, laxatives, water pills)
Refusing to eat or lying about how much was eaten
Throwing up after meals
Fainting
Over-exercising
Loss of menses.
Increased anxiety about weight
What are possible medical complications related to eating disorders? Anorexia Nervosa:
Abnormally slow heart rate
Low blood pressure
Increased risk for heart failure
Osteoporosis
Severe dehydration, which can lead to kidney failure
Fainting
Fatigue
Dry hair and skin.
Lanugos hair, or a downy layer of hair caused by the bodys effort to keep itself warm
Hair loss
Bulimia Nervosa:
Electrolyte imbalances, which can lead to an irregular heartbeat
Increased risk of heart failure
Potential for gastric rupture during periods of binging
Inflammation and possible rupture of the esophagus from frequent vomiting
Tooth decay and staining from stomach acids released during frequent vomiting
Chronic irregular bowel movements and constipation as a result of laxative abuse
Peptic ulcers
Pancreatitis
Binge Eating Disorder:
High blood pressure
High cholesterol levels
Heart disease as a result of elevated triglyceride levels
Type II diabetes mellitus
Gallbladder disease
1 Bulik, C. M., Sullivan, P. F., Wade, T. D., Kendler, K. S. (2000). Twin studies of eating disorders: A review. International Journal of Eating Disorders, 27, 120.
