The behaviors that are characteristic of eating disorders involve a lot of planning and careful control and discipline of eating and exercise habits. Those who are diagnosed with anorexia, for example, exhibit a high level of control over their caloric intake and are very rigid in their exercise routines. Bulimia nervosa also requires a high …
Health care providers across the world convene each February for National Eating Disorders Awareness Week. Regardless of language, culture or geography, most share the same concern – the reality that most people who suffer from eating disorders don’t seek help, and don’t get treatment, despite advances in awareness for the disease.
In addition to the disordered eating behavior patterns that characterize an eating disorder, anorexia and bulimia nervosa also often carry with them a burden of shame and isolation. Those suffering from the disorders hide their disordered behaviors, making excuses for awkward disappearances after mealtimes or not participating in mealtimes at all.
Some sports are especially focused on a lean physical appearance for females. Participating in a sport such as gymnastics or figure skating can put pressure on young women to maintain a particular weight, and disordered patterns of eating behaviors often push them into dangerous malnutrition.
It is easy to believe that eating disorders only afflict the young. Those who are haunted by picture of skinny models and Hollywood portrayals of beauty that is only found in a size two find reality very difficult to manage. According to a recent UPI report, however, these disorders are now increasingly being found in …
Eating Disorders Becoming More Common Among Older Adults Read More »
Anorexia and bulimia nervosa are caused by a complex combination of genetic and environmental factors. The development of the disorders can occur at many different ages, often emerging during adolescence, but sometimes after a significant life event or milestone, such as a divorce.
