Eating Disorders
Eating Disorders
What is it?
An eating disorder is a complex mental health condition characterized by abnormal eating behaviors that have a negative impact on physical and psychological well-being. Each type of eating disorder involves a range of attitudes, emotions, and behaviors concerning food, body image, and weight.
Anorexia Nervosa (AN)
Anorexia nervosa is characterized by extreme weight loss, an intense fear of gaining weight, and a distorted body image. People with anorexia severely restrict their food intake, often engage in rituals around food, and may exercise excessively. Physical symptoms include fatigue, thinning hair, and feeling cold.
Bulimia Nervosa (BN)
Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating, followed by behaviors to compensate for overeating, such as vomiting, fasting, or excessive exercise. Individuals with bulimia often have a negative body image and intense fear of weight gain. This disorder can lead to various physical health issues, such as electrolyte imbalances, digestive problems, and dental issues.
Binge Eating Disorder (BED)
Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is characterized by frequent episodes of consuming large amounts of food in a short period, accompanied by a sense of loss of control. Unlike bulimia, individuals with BED do not engage in regular compensatory behaviors such as vomiting or excessive exercise. BED is often linked to emotional distress, and it can lead to weight gain and related health concerns.
Other Specified Feeding and Eating Disorder (OSFED)
Other Specified Feeding and Eating Disorder (OSFED) is an eating disorder category that includes individuals who exhibit disordered eating behaviors but do not meet the specific criteria for anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating disorder. OSFED encompasses a range of symptoms and behaviors, such as atypical food restrictions, purging without binge eating, and recurrent episodes of overeating (such as night feeding disorder and purging disorder). Despite not fitting the standard diagnostic criteria, OSFED can still have significant physical and psychological impacts.
Unspecified Feeding or Eating Disorder (UFED)
Unspecified Feeding or Eating Disorder (UFED) is a category that applies when an individual's symptoms do not fully meet the criteria for specific eating disorders like anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating disorder. Despite not fitting a defined diagnosis, UFED indicates the presence of disordered eating patterns and behaviors that still impact physical and mental well-being.
Pica
Pica is an eating disorder characterized by the consumption of non-nutritive, non-food substances such as dirt, paper, chalk, or hair. This behavior typically persists for more than one month and is not culturally or developmentally appropriate. Pica is often associated with nutritional deficiencies, underlying medical conditions, or psychological factors. It can lead to serious health complications if left untreated.
Rumination Disorder
Rumination Disorder is an eating disorder characterized by the regurgitation of food that has been previously swallowed, followed by rechewing, reswallowing, or spitting out. This behaviour is not due to a medical condition and typically occurs within the first 30 minutes after eating. It's often associated with repeated regurgitation and can lead to weight loss, nutritional deficiencies, and other health issues.
Contact us
"*" indicates required fields
