Eating Disorders can be Deadly

ELEVEN MILLION people in the U.S. have an eating disorder, and you may never suspect it by their physical appearance. Here are the major types of eating disorders, and symptoms and behaviors to look for.

Anorexia nervosa is an intense fear of getting fat, even if underweight. People with this disorder may frequently complain of being cold, suddenly become vegetarian, eat only certain foods, insist on preparing their own food or avoid eating altogether. Due to malnutrition induced chemical disturbances, they may develop fine facial and body hair, suddenly behave differently, have difficulty making decisions and think irrationally. Often they are hospitalized due to dehydration, malnutrition or heart and kidney problems. Anorexia has a mortality rate of 20 percent, the highest of any mental-health condition.

Bulimia nervosa causes recurrent episodes of binge eating, zoning out on food, eating secretly and then getting rid of the food. People who are bulimic may vomit, causing swollen glands at the jaw and cheeks; misuse medications such as laxatives and diuretics; fast; or exercise excessively. They may feel full after even a small meal, with an urge to get rid of the food. Bulimia is a potentially serious condition that disrupts the body’s chemistries, harms the digestive tract, erodes tooth enamel and creates the risk of potentially fatal heart irregularities.

Binge eating means consuming large amounts of food in a short period of time until the eater feels uncomfortably full. Binge eaters may feel that they cannot control what or how much they eat once they start and later feel disgusted with themselves, depressed or guilty. They often eat alone, embarrassed by how much or what they eat.

Compulsive overeating means eating when one is not physically hungry. Some compulsive overeaters eat when upset or stressed to get through the day. They may
“graze” throughout the day as they work. They constantly think about what to eat orrnnot eat, and about their weight. Eating disorders do not go away untreated. It is a good idea to start with intense treatment with experienced eating disorder professionals. This will help the person manage the underlying reasons for the eating disorder and create a foundation for lasting recovery.
Rebecca Cooper is a certified eating disorder specialist, author and the founder of Rebecca’s House Eating Disorders Treatment Program™ (www.Rebeccashouse.org).