EATING DISORDER FACTS Up to 30 million people of all ages and genders suffer from an eating disorder in the U.S. Eating disorders have the highest mortality rate of any mental illness, Eating disorders are more than just unhealthy eating habits. They involve distorted attitudes about weight, food, and body image. Over time, people with eating disorders lose the ability to see themselves objectively and their unhealthy relationship to food dominates their entire life.

Anorexia affects 1 out of every 100 young women. Bulimia occurs in another 2 to 5 out of every 100 young women. Binge Eating affects about 10-15% of mildly obese individuals.

BINGE EATING DISORDER Characterized by episodes of eating significantly more food in a short period of time than most people would normally eat. It may include: Eating extremely fast Eating beyond feeling full Eating large amounts of food when not hungry Eating alone to hide how much one is eating Feeling guilt or shame after a binge Binge Eating Disorder is the most common eating disorder among U.S. adults and is more than twice as prevalent as bulimia and anorexia combined. People with binge eating disorder lose control over their eating. These periods are NOT followed by compensatory behaviors like purging, excessive exercise, or fasting. As a result, these people often are overweight or obese. They experience guilt, shame, and distress about their binge which can lead to more binge eating.

BULIMIA People with bulimia are overly concerned with their body’s shape and weight and they engage in detrimental behaviors in an attempt to control their body image. Binging—recurrent and frequent episodes of eating unusually large amounts of food and a feeling of lack of control over these episodes. Purgeing—behavior that compensates for the overeating such as forced vomiting, excessive use of laxatives or diuretics, fasting, excessive exercise, or a combination of these behaviors. Most people with bulimia usually maintain what is considered a healthy or normal weight. They often fear gaining weight, want desperately to lose weight, and are intensely unhappy with their body size and shape. This behavior is usually done secretly because it is often accompanied by feelings of disgust or shame. The binge eating and purging cycle can happen several times a week to many times a day.

ANOREXIA Anorexia is the third most common chronic illness among adolescents. It is a serious and potentially life- threatening illness. It includes: Self-induced starvation resulting in low body weight Fear weight gain and/or engage in persistent behaviors to avoid weight gain. People with anorexia often become very fearful of food and weight gain, and can have a distorted view of their body shape and weight. Eating, food, and weight control become obsessions. They typically weigh themselves repeatedly, portion food carefully, and eat very small quantities of only certain foods.

TREATMENT Treatment plans are tailored to individual needs and goals may include: Restoring adequate nutrition Bringing weight to a healthy level Reducing excessive exercise Stopping binge eating and purging behaviors Treatment Team: Doctor—monitors overall health, treats medical conditions, and prescribes any medications that are needed. Therapist/psychologist—identifies and counsels for any emotional issues other mental health issues. Dietician—provides information about a healthy diet and helps develop a plan to address healthy eating and exercise patterns. Complete recovery is possible!

Warning Signs of Eating Disorders: Low self-esteem and body image Dramatic weight loss Pre-occupation with weight, food facts, and meal rituals Binging on and hoarding large amounts of food Increased use of laxatives, diuretics, or diet pills Compulsive exercising Withdrawn from friends and family In the early stages of an eating disorder it can be hard to tell the difference between an eating disorder and normal concerns about weight or dieting and many people with an eating disorder hide their unhealthy behaviors.

Remember: Eating disorders can virtually take over your life. If you’re experiencing any of these problems, or if you think you may have an eating disorder, seek medical treatment as soon as possible. The most important thing to know is that early treatment makes a difference! The sooner an individual receives treatment, the more likely she/he will be to recover.