Eating Disorders

An eating disorder is any one of a variety of ailments which causes one to eat (or withhold from eating) in a fashion that is not considered "normal". The term also includes an unusual feeling of distress over one's body weight or shape. An eating disorder can start with a simple diet but end up spinning out of control. Researchers do not fully understand eating disorders and they are a very complex issue.http://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/nedaDir/files/documents/handouts/WhatIsEd.pdf

An eating disorder is often considered a psychological disorder, and is thus treated with therapy sessions or other forms of alternative treatment.http://www.nedic.ca/knowthefacts/foodweight.shtmlhttp://www.cmha.ca/bins/content_page.asp?cid=3-98

Anorexia Nervosa - Despite drastic weight loss, anorexics feel they are fat, and are terrified that they may gain weight with even the healthiest of diets. Some anorexics eat small amounts of food, much less than their bodies require, while others eat nothing at all.

Bulimia Nervosa - The practice of causing oneself to vomit after eating with the goal of weight loss. Bulimia is often paired with binge eating - where one eats uncontrollably, then vomits to avoid the weight gain.

Binge Eating Disorder - The practice of overeating uncontrollably, amounting more food than one needs. This is often partnered with bulimia or crash diets or periods of anorexic behaviour. http://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/nedaDir/files/documents/handouts/WhatIsEd.pdf

The exact cause of eating disorders in unknown although researchers believe genetics might be involved. People with eating disorders usually have mental and emotional issues which contribute to eating disorders. The Western culture focuses on "thin is beautiful" which can also cause pressure to lose weight, especially among young girls. http://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/nedaDir/files/documents/handouts/WhatIsEd.pdfhttp://www.wrongdiagnosis.com/e/eating_disorder_not_otherwise_specified_endos/intro.htmhttp://www.nedic.ca/knowthefacts/foodweight.shtml

Eating disorders are treatable. The treatment will focus on psychotherapy to teach you to trade your unhealthy habits for healthy ones. Cognitive behavioral therapy is commonly used as a treatment for eating disorders. Other treatments for eating disorders can include nutrition education and medications. In some cased hospitalization might be needed.http://www.nedic.ca/knowthefacts/foodweight.shtml

The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you think you suffer from an eating disorder, please consult your doctor.