Understanding Eating Disorders

1. Types of Eating Disorders

A. Anorexia Nervosa

Key Features:

• Extreme restriction of food intake, leading to severe weight loss.
• Intense fear of gaining weight, even when underweight.
• Distorted body image—seeing oneself as overweight despite being very thin.
• Excessive exercise, vomiting, or use of laxatives to control weight.

Health Risks:

• Malnutrition, osteoporosis, heart problems, organ failure.
• Highest mortality rate among all mental disorders.

B. Bulimia Nervosa

Key Features:

• Episodes of binge eating (eating large amounts of food in a short time).
• Purging behaviors (vomiting, laxatives, excessive exercise) to "undo" the binge.
• Feeling out of control during binge episodes.
• Normal weight or slightly overweight, unlike anorexia.

Health Risks:

• Dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, heart issues.
• Tooth erosion from frequent vomiting.

C. Binge Eating Disorder (BED)

Key Features:

• Frequent binge eating episodes, often done in secret.
• No purging behaviors (unlike bulimia).
• Feeling guilt, shame, or distress after eating.
• Often leads to weight gain or obesity.

Health Risks:

• Increased risk of diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure.
• Emotional distress and depression.

D. Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)

Key Features:

• Avoidance of certain foods due to sensory sensitivity, fear of choking, or past trauma.
• Not related to body image concerns, unlike anorexia or bulimia.
• Can lead to malnutrition, weight loss, or growth problems in children.

Health Risks:

• Deficiencies in vitamins, minerals, and energy intake.
• Anxiety around eating or food situations.

2. Causes of Eating Disorders

Eating disorders develop due to a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors:

A. Biological Factors

• Genetics: Having a family history of eating disorders increases risk.
• Brain Chemistry: Abnormal levels of serotonin and dopamine can influence eating behaviors.

B. Psychological Factors

• Low self-esteem or body dissatisfaction.
• Perfectionism and fear of losing control.
• Depression, anxiety, or trauma history.

C. Social & Environmental Factors

• Cultural pressure to be thin (social media, fashion industry, diet culture).
• Bullying, weight stigma, or pressure from sports/activities.
• Family dynamics, including stress, controlling environments, or childhood trauma.

3. Signs & Symptoms of Eating Disorders

Physical Signs

• Drastic weight changes (gain or loss).
• Dizziness, fatigue, fainting.
• Hair thinning, dry skin, brittle nails.
• Frequent stomach pain, constipation, or bloating.
• Irregular or missing periods (in females).

Behavioral Signs

• Skipping meals, extreme dieting, or avoiding food groups.
• Obsession with calories, weight, or body shape.
• Frequent trips to the bathroom after meals (possible purging).
• Eating in secret, hoarding food, or hiding wrappers.
• Excessive exercise, even when tired or injured.

Emotional Signs

• Extreme fear of gaining weight.
• Feeling out of control with food.
• Shame, guilt, or distress after eating.
• Mood swings, irritability, or isolation.

4. Effects of Eating Disorders on Mental & Physical Health

If untreated, eating disorders can lead to serious health complications, including:

Heart problems (irregular heartbeat, heart failure).

Gastrointestinal issues (bloating, ulcers, acid reflux).

Bone loss (osteoporosis) due to nutrient deficiencies.

Weakened immune system, making illness more likely.

Severe anxiety, depression, or suicidal thoughts.

5. How Nafs Health can help:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Helps change disordered thoughts and behaviors around food.
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) – Teaches emotional regulation and coping skills.
• Nutritional Counseling – Guides balanced eating habits and repairs the body.
• Group Therapy & Support Groups – Provides encouragement from others facing similar struggles.

Eating disorders are not just about food—they are mental health conditions that require support, understanding, and treatment. With the right help, full recovery is possible, and individuals can rebuild a healthy relationship with food and their body.