Eating disorders are complicated medical conditions with substantial physical, emotional and psychological implications. Eating disorders are characterised by an unhealthy way of eating that interferes with daily activities.
Eating disorders are more common than we may realise. We reached out to Nutritionist Dr. Rohini Patil, Author of The Lifestyle Diet, and asked her to shed some light on them. Read on to know the three most common eating disorders and their characteristics, as shared by Dr. Patil.
via GIPHY
1. Binge-Eating Disorder
A binge-eater consumes vast quantities of food in a short period of time with little control, on a regular basis (at least once a week for three months). The amount of food consumed by people with binge-eating disorder is typically embarrassing. They may keep food hidden and overeat in secret. People with this illness frequently attempt to diet without success or make promises to cut down on their eating habits. They believe they are unable to control their desire to consume enormous amounts of food. They may become overweight or obese as a result of bingeing.
2. Bulimia
Bulimia affects those who eat a lot of food at once (bingeing). They subsequently vomit or take laxatives to get the meal out of their system (called purging). A person with bulimia may fast after a binge (not eat for a period of time). Alternatively, they may over-exercise in order to avoid gaining weight. Bulimics may also take laxatives, diet pills, or water pills to “manage” their weight. They frequently try to conceal their bingeing and purging behaviours. They could keep food hidden in case they have a binge. People who have bulimia are usually near to normal weight, however their weight fluctuates.
3. Anorexia
People who suffer from anorexia are fixated with their weight. They are averse to putting on weight and refuse to eat. They may be continually concerned about the caloric and fat content in their food. To lose weight, they may use diet pills, laxatives, or water pills. They may overexert themselves. Anorexics often believe they are obese despite their extreme svelteness. They may become so frail that they appear ill.
