Eating disorders: Types, symptoms and treatments

The eating disorders They are serious conditions that affect both physical and emotional health. These diseases are characterized by extreme eating behaviors and an obsession with body shape, weight, or appearance, which negatively impacts quality of life.

More specifically, eating disorders are mental disorders characterized by abnormal and often unhealthy eating behaviors. These behaviors may include extreme food restriction, episodes of excessive eating, or compulsive exercise patterns. Eating disorders are complex conditions that can lead to serious consequences, including heart, bone, digestive problems and, in severe cases, death.

Types of Eating Disorders

There are several types of recognized eating disorders, and each has specific characteristics. Among the most common are:

1. Anorexia Nervosa

Anorexia nervosa is characterized by extreme restriction of caloric intake due to intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted perception of one’s body. People with anorexia nervosa often see themselves as overweight, even when they are dangerously thin.

Symptoms:

• Extreme weight loss
• Obsession with food, weight and calories
• Restrictive dietary practices
• Body image distortion
• Absence of menstruation in women (amenorrhea)

Risks:

• Anemia, damage to vital organs, osteoporosis and heart problems.

2. Bulimia Nervosa

Bulimia nervosa is characterized by episodes of excessive food intake, followed by purging behaviors to “compensate” for the eating, such as self-induced vomiting, laxative use, or extreme exercise. Unlike anorexia, people with bulimia usually maintain an average body weight.

Symptoms:

• Binge eating episodes (eating large amounts of food in a short time)
• Recurrent purging behaviors
• Shame and guilt after episodes
• Constant worry about weight

Risks:

• Damage to the esophagus, dental problems, electrolyte imbalances and risk of cardiac arrhythmias.

3. Binge Eating Disorder

Binge eating disorder is one of the most common and is characterized by frequent episodes of excessive food intake without purging behaviors. These episodes are often accompanied by feelings of loss of control, shame, or guilt.

Symptoms:

• Overeating in a short period of time, even when you are not hungry
• Eating in secret
• Feelings of distress or shame after binge eating episodes
• Fluctuations in body weight

Risks:

• Obesity, type 2 diabetes, hypertension and heart problems.

4. Selective Eating Disorder

This disorder, also known as Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), is characterized by avoiding certain foods or food groups due to texture, color, smell, or appearance. It is not associated with a concern about weight, but rather with an extreme aversion or sensitivity to certain foods.

Symptoms:

• Persistent avoidance of certain foods or food groups
• Significant weight loss or nutritional deficiencies
• Difficulty eating in social situations

Risks:

• Malnutrition, vitamin deficiencies and growth problems in children.

Risk Factors and Causes of Eating Disorders

Eating disorders are complex and do not have a single cause. However, there are several risk factors:

• Genetic Factors: Studies suggest that there is a genetic predisposition that may increase the likelihood of developing an eating disorder.
• Psychological Factors: People with self-esteem problems, anxiety, depression or perfectionism are more vulnerable to eating disorders.
• Sociocultural Factors: Social pressure and the promotion of unattainable beauty ideals in the media and social networks also play an important role.
• Family atmosphere: A critical or high-pressure family environment can increase the risk.

Consequences of Eating Disorders

The consequences of eating disorders can be serious and affect both physical and emotional health. Long-term health problems include:

• heart problems: Due to malnutrition and electrolyte imbalances.
• Organ damage: The liver, kidneys, and digestive system may suffer permanent damage.
• Decline in bone health: Lack of nutrients can lead to osteoporosis.
• Psychological impact: Anxiety, depression and social isolation.

Treatments for Eating Disorders

Treatment of eating disorders is often complex and multidisciplinary, and includes:

1. Psychological Therapy

• The cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective. Helps change negative thought patterns and unhealthy behaviors.
• The family therapy It is very useful, especially in adolescents, for family members to support recovery.
• Other therapies, such as dialectical-behavioral therapy (TDC) and the acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), are also used to address emotional regulation.

2. Medical attention

• In severe cases, hospital treatment may be necessary to address the physical effects of malnutrition and electrolyte imbalance.
• The supervised nutrition and the dietary advice They are essential to establishing healthy eating habits.

3. Medication

• Although there are no specific medications for eating disorders, certain antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications can help manage symptoms such as depression and anxiety that often accompany these disorders.

4. Support Groups

• Support groups, both in person and online, offer a safe space to share experiences and receive support from people with similar situations.

Prevention

Preventing eating disorders involves promoting a healthy view of food and the body, especially in young people. Education about healthy eating habits, reducing pressure around body image, and boosting self-esteem can help prevent the onset of these disorders.