Eating disorders are not simply about food or dieting. These are serious, complex mental health conditions that affect both physical and emotional well - being.
Content Written by: Paul O'Halloran - Head of Mental Health - Center for Mental Health Care - Vinmec Times City International Hospital.
Understanding Eating Disorders Correctly
While these disorders most commonly begin during adolescence and young adulthood, they can emerge at any age. The core causes stem from a combination of psychological vulnerabilities, biological factors, and social pressures, which together make eating - and even thinking about food - feel overwhelming or emotionally distressing.
Research shows that the global prevalence of eating disorders almost doubled between 2000 and 2018, highlighting the increasing need for early recognition and effective treatment methods.
Common Types of Eating Disorders and Their Symptoms
These disorders include anorexia nervosa (AN), bulimia nervosa (BN), binge eating disorder (BED), avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), and other specified eating disorders (OSFED).
Anorexia Nervosa (AN)
This condition is characterized by severe restriction of food intake, an intense fear of weight gain, and a distorted body image. Individuals may believe they are overweight despite being significantly underweight.
- Physical signs: Prolonged fatigue, feeling cold, brittle hair and nails, and menstrual changes in females.
- Behavioral signs: Avoiding meals, engaging in excessive exercise, or social withdrawal.
Bulimia Nervosa (BN)
Bulimia involves cycles of uncontrolled binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors such as vomiting, fasting, laxative misuse, or excessive exercise. Individuals with bulimia may maintain a normal body weight, making physical signs harder to spot. Common signs of bulimia are dental erosion, a sore throat, swollen salivary glands, and frequent trips to the bathroom after meals.
Binge Eating Disorder (BED)
Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is defined by eating unusually large amounts of food in a short period while feeling a debilitating lack of control. Individuals may eat rapidly, eat when not hungry, or eat alone due to feelings of shame.
The key difference in BED is in the absence of purging behaviors seen in bulimia. However, it is strongly associated with feelings of guilt, distress and sometimes weight-related health issues.
Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)
ARFID is distinct because the avoidance or restriction of food intake is not related to concerns about body weight or shape. The restriction stems from factors like sensory sensitivities, fear of choking or vomiting, or low interest in eating. ARFID can lead to critical nutritional deficiencies and dependence on external supplements.
Why Eating Disorders Occur
Eating disorders are the result of complex interplay between several factors.
Psychological factors
Traits such as perfectionism, anxiety, rigidity, and low self-esteem are common in anorexia. Bulimia is often associated with emotional instability, impulsivity, and difficulties managing emotions. Binge eating may develop as a way to cope with stress, sadness, or long periods of restrictive dieting.
Biological factors
Genetics, brain chemistry, and hormonal influences play an important role. Differences in neurotransmitters that regulate mood, hunger, and reward can contribute to the development and maintenance of eating disorders.
Social and cultural factors
Societal pressures - such as the idealization of thinness, exposure to edited images on social media, and appearance-related teasing - can significantly influence body image and eating behaviors. Certain sports and activities that emphasize weight or shape also increase vulnerability.
Health and Social Consequences of Eating Disorders
More than just emotional difficulties, Eating Disorders also cause serious physical and psychological impacts, creating long-term consequences that can require urgent medical intervention.
Medical and Physical Impacts
Eating disorders in its severe form, can lead to malnutrition, heart problems, digestive issues, hormone disturbances, bone density loss, infertility, kidney damage, dental erosion, and increased risk of chronic illness. Anorexia has one of the highest mortality rates for all mental health conditions.
Psychological Impacts
Individuals often experience anxiety, depression, obsessive thoughts about food, shame, guilt, and low self-esteem. Concentration is affected, and emotional regulation becomes increasingly difficult. Suicidal thoughts may occur in severe cases.
Social Effects
Eating disorders often cause withdrawal from social situations, avoidance of meals with others, and strained relationships. The secretive nature of the disorder can lead to isolation and loneliness.
Long-term risks
Even after symptoms improve, long-term medical risks may persist for years, including chronic complications related to the heart, metabolism, bone weakness, and digestive problems.
Why Early Detection and Treatment Matter
Early intervention significantly improves recovery. Treatment typically involves medical monitoring, nutritional rehabilitation, and psychological intervention or psychotherapy (such as CBT-E and Family-Based Treatment for adolescents). Recovery is not only about changing eating behaviors but also healing the emotional and psychological drivers behind the disorder.
Seeking help and supporting others
If you or someone you care about shows signs of an eating disorder, seeking help early is essential. Supportive steps include listening without judgement, avoiding comments about weight, encouraging professional assessment, and providing consistent emotional support. With appropriate treatment and compassion, recovery is absolutely achievable.
To arrange an appointment, please call HOTLINE or make your reservation directly HERE. You may also download the MyVinmec app to schedule appointments faster and manage your reservations more conveniently.
