Eating Disorders

Eating Disorder: An extreme & damaging eating behavior that can lead to sickness & even death. Statistics 7 – 10 million females suffer from anorexia or bulimia. 1 million males suffer from anorexia or bulimia. 25 million males/females suffer from binge eating disorder.

Anorexia Extreme fear of weight gain, which leads to self-inflicted starvation.

Bulimia Binge eating followed by self-induced purging (vomiting), use of laxatives, or excessive exercise to prevent weight gain.

Binge Eating Eat large amounts of food in short periods, but DO NOT engage in purging or other behaviors.                

Warning Signs

Anorexia Obsession w/ calories and fat content of food Visible food restriction & self-starvation/Denial of hunger Comments on being fat despite weight loss Consistent excuses to avoid mealtimes/situations involving food

Bulimia Makes excuses to use bathroom after meals May buy large amounts of food which suddenly disappears Swelling around the jaw Discoloration/staining of teeth

Binge Eating A sense of lack of control during binge episode(feel as if can’t stop) Eat large amounts of food when not hungry Eat alone to avoid being embarrassed Feel disgusted with oneself, depressed, or very guilty after overeating

Causes of Eating Disorders

Low self-esteem Feelings of inadequacy or lack of control in life Depression, anxiety, anger, or loneliness Difficulty expressing emotions/feelings

Teased or ridiculed based on size or weight Physical or sexual abuse Cultural pressure - “thinness” or “perfect body” Biochemical - certain chemicals in brain that control hunger, appetite, & digestion are unbalanced

Medical Complications

Anorexia Slow heart rate/low BP Reduction of bone density/muscle loss Severe dehydration (Kidney failure) Fainting/fatigue Dry hair and skin, hair loss

Bulimia Chemical imbalances – irregular heartbeats, heart failure, death Potential gastric & esophagus rupture Tooth decay, staining Constipation

Binge Eating High BP High Cholesterol Heart disease Type II diabetes

Treatment

Anorexia 3 phases: 1. Restoring weight lost due to severe dieting 2. Treating psychological disturbances (low self-esteem, body image, etc…) 3. Achieving long-term remission & rehabilitation, or full recovery

Bulimia/Binge Eating Psychological counseling Nutritional counseling In-patient/out-patient care