what are eating disorders?

Eating Disorders:

An Overview:

Eating disorders are serious and sometimes life-threatening conditions that involve intense emotions, attitudes, and behaviors surrounding weight and food. These disorders can significantly impact physical health, mental well-being, and overall quality of life. While the root causes of eating disorders are multifaceted, encompassing a combination of genetic, psychological, environmental, and sociocultural factors, they all entail severe disruptions in eating behaviors.

1. Anorexia Nervosa:

Definition: Anorexia nervosa is characterized by self-starvation, an intense fear of gaining weight, and a distorted body image.

Symptoms:

• Severe restriction of food intake leading to significant weight loss
• Intense fear of weight gain
• Distorted view of body weight and shape
• In females, absence of menstruation
• Denial of the severity of the condition

Complications: Heart problems, osteoporosis, kidney failure, and malnutrition.

2. Bulimia Nervosa:

Definition: Bulimia nervosa involves episodes of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors like vomiting, using laxatives, or excessive exercise to prevent weight gain.

Symptoms:

• Recurrent episodes of binge eating
• Feeling of loss of control during bingeing
• Purging behaviors to prevent weight gain
• Fear of gaining weight
• Self-esteem overly related to body image

Complications: Tooth decay, esophagus inflammation, gastrointestinal problems, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalance.

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