Eating Disorders

 

🧠 What Are Eating Disorders?

Eating disorders are illnesses where people develop unhealthy thoughts and behaviors around food, weight, or body shape.

They’re not about vanity — they’re often connected to stress, anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem.

🍎 The Main Types

  1. Anorexia Nervosa

    • Extreme restriction of food or calories

    • Intense fear of gaining weight

    • Can cause serious health issues like weak bones, heart problems, and fatigue

  2. Bulimia Nervosa

    • Eating large amounts of food (bingeing), then trying to get rid of it (purging) through vomiting, fasting, or excessive exercise

    • Often tied to guilt and shame

  3. Binge Eating Disorder (BED)

    • Frequently eating large amounts of food without purging

    • Feels out of control and leads to emotional distress

  4. Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)

    • Avoiding certain foods or eating very little, but not because of weight concerns — often due to sensory issues or fear of choking

⚠️ Signs to Watch For

  • Skipping meals or eating very little 

  • Obsessing over calories, body weight, or mirrors

  • Feeling guilty after eating

  • Wearing baggy clothes to hide weight changes

  • Dizziness, hair loss, or fatigue

  • Isolation from friends or activities

If you notice these signs in yourself or someone else, it’s important to reach out for help — early support can save lives. 

🩺 Why It’s So Serious

Eating disorders affect every system in the body — heart, brain, digestion, hormones, and bones.
They can be life-threatening, but with treatment and compassion, full recovery is possible.

Treatment usually includes:

  • Therapy (to heal emotions and self-image)

  • Nutrition counseling

  • Medical monitoring

  • Support from family and friends

 Recap

  • Eating disorders = serious mental + physical health issues

  • Common types: anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, ARFID

  • They’re not a choice — they’re illnesses that need care

  • Recovery is possible with the right support 

🧠 Fun Fact: Your brain uses about 20% of your body’s energy — that’s why proper nutrition is essential for clear thinking, focus, and emotional balance.

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