Eating Disorders are chronic and persistent behaviors having to do with a person’s relationship with food and/or exercise. These behaviors can have a negative impact on a person’s physical and mental health, their relationships, as well as their careers.
There are 3 basic types of eating disorders:
- Anorexia is defined by a strong pre-occupation with weight gain and often a distorted body image. In order to avoid gaining weight, there is often restriction of food intake, over exercising, and even taking laxatives. Not all individuals with anorexia are significantly underweight.
- Bulimia– Typically, people with bulimia can eat large amounts of food in a short period of time. They then try to get rid themselves of the calories by either vomiting, taking laxatives or over-exercising.
- Binge Eating Disorder is very much a mindless behavior. Typically, individuals who binge eat frequently overeat large amounts of food, having nothing to do with hunger or pleasure.
Eating disorders are complicated symptoms that are often connected to emotional issues. It can affect not only the individual, but their families, or partners, as well. If you or a family member is experiencing any symptoms of disordered eating, please contact us for a consultation. Help is available. Counseling, often in partnership with a nutritionist and possibly your PCP, can lead to a happier, healthier, more fulfilling life.