Eating Disorders

An eating disorder is marked by extremes. The affected person is extremely concerned or obsessed about their physical appearance in the form of their weight and body shape.  Eating disorders are present when a person experiences severe disturbances in eating behavior, such as extreme reduction of food intake or extreme overeating.

The two main types of eating disorders are Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa.  

• Anorexia nervosa is a psychiatric disorder characterized by an unrealistic fear of weight gain, self-starvation, and conspicuous distortion of body image. The individual is obsessed with becoming increasingly thinner and limits food intake to the point where health is compromised. The disorder may be fatal.
• Bulimia nervosa is a serious and sometimes life-threatening eating disorder affecting mainly young women. People with bulimia consume large amounts of food (binge) and then try to rid themselves of the food and calories (purge) by fasting, excessive exercise, vomiting, or using laxatives. The behavior often serves to reduce stress and relieve anxiety. Because bulimia results from an excessive concern with weight control and self-image, and is often accompanied by depression, it is also considered a psychiatric illness.

Eating disorders, though more common in females (especially in adolescence), can affect both males and females.  There is treatment available for these illnesses and it is recommended to consult a qualified medical professional. 

For more information on eating disorders, visit:
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/eating-disorders/index.shtml
http://www.mentalhealthamerica.net/go/information/get-info/eating-disorders