eating disorder causes and effects essay

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Eating Disorders, Essay Example

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Introduction

Eating disorders affect men and women of all ages, although adolescents tend to be the age group that is more susceptible. This is because, as their bodies are changing, they may feel more pressure by society as well as peer groups to look attractive and fit in (Segal et al). Types of eating disorders include Anorexia, Bulimia and Compulsive Overeating, which can also be related to the first two. The reasons behind Eating Disorder usually stem from a reaction to low self-esteem and a negative means of coping with life and stress (Something Fishy).  Eating disorders are also often associated with an underlying psychological disorder, which may be the reason behind the eating disorder or which may develop from the Eating Disorder itself. Mental health disorders that are often associated with Eating Disorder include Anxiety, Depression, Multiple Personality Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, BiPolar, BiPolar II, Borderline Personality Disorder, Panic Disorder and Dissociative Disorder. The longer a person suffers from ED, the more probable that they will be dealing with another mental illness, most likely Anxiety or Depression (Something Fishy). The eventual outcome of Eating Disorder can be deadly. “Some eating disorders are associated with a 10-15% mortality rate and a 20-25% suicide rate. Sometimes, anorexia, bulimia and compulsive eating may be perceived as slow suicide (Carruthers).” In order to prevent the deadly consequences of Eating Disorder and to prevent it from becoming more pervasive in society, it is necessary to recognize the correct treatment method for this disease.  Traditional treatments have focused on providing risk information to raise awareness of the consequences of Eating Disorder (Lobera et al 263). However, since Eating Disorder is a mental illness, a more effective treatment is one that offers psychological evaluation, counseling and treatment. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is emerging as a more robust and effective method that can be used not only to treat Eating Disorder but the associated mental illnesses that may accompany it.

The Problem

Eating disorder is pervasive in society and can have deadly consequences on those that suffer from it. Many time Eating Disorder goes undetected by family members and friends because those suffering will go to great lengths to hide their problem. However, there are some signs and symptoms that can be clues that a person is suffering from some sort of eating disorder. According to Segal, these signs can include:

• Restricting Food or Dieting: A change in eating habits that includes restricting food or excessive dieting. The person my frequently miss meals or not eat, complaining of an upset stomach or that they are not hungry. A use of diet pills or illegal drugs may also be noticed.
• Bingeing: Sufferers may binge eat in secret, which can be hard to detect since they will usually do it late at night or in a private place. Signs of potential bingeing are empty food packages and wrappers and hidden stashes of high calorie junk food or desserts.
• Purging: Those who suffer from bulimia will force themselves to throw up after meals to rid their body of added calories. A sign that this is occurring is when a person makes a trip to the bathroom right after eating on a regular basis, possible running water or a fan to hide the sound of their vomiting. They may also use perfume, mouthwash or breath mints regularly to disguise the smell. In addition to vomiting, laxatives or diuretics may also be used to flush unwanted calories from the body.
• Distorted body image and altered appearance: People suffering from Eating Disorder often have a very distorted image of their own body. While they may appear thin to others, they may view themselves as fat and attempt to hide their body under loose clothing. They will also have an obsessive preoccupation with their weight, and complain of being fat even when it is obvious to others that this is not the case.

There are several possible side effects from Eating Disorders, both physical and psychological. Physical damage can be temporary or permanent, depending on the severity of the eating disorder and the length of time the person has been suffering from it.  Psychological consequences can be the development of a mental illness, especially depression and anxiety. Some sufferers of Eating Disorder will also develop a coping mechanism such as harming themselves, through cutting, self-mutilation or self-inflicted violence, or SIV (Something Fishy).

Physical consequences of Eating Disorders depend on the type of eating disorder that the person has. Anorexia nervosa can lead to a slow heart rate and low blood pressure, putting the sufferer at risk for heart failure and permanent heart damage. Malnutrition can lead to osteoporosis and dry, brittle bones. Other common complications include kidney damage due to dehydration, overall weakness, hair loss and dry skin. Bulimia nervosa, where the person constantly purges through vomiting, can have similar consequences as Anorexia but with added complications and damage to the esophagus and gastric cavity due to the frequent vomiting. In addition, tooth decay can occur because of damage caused by gastric juices. If the person also uses laxatives to purge, irregular bowel movements and constipation can occur. Peptic ulcers and pancreatitis can also common negative heath effects (National Eating Disorders Association).  If the Eating Disorder goes on for a prolonged time period, death is also a possible affect, which is why it is important to seek treatment for the individual as soon as it is determined that they are suffering from an Eating Disorder.

Once it is recognized that a loved one may be suffering from an Eating Disorder, the next step is coming up with an effective intervention in time to prevent any lasting physical damage or death. The most effective treatment to date is Cognitive-behavioral therapy, an active form of counseling that can be done in either a group or private setting (Curtis). Cognitive-behavioral therapy is used to help correct poor eating habits and prevent relapse as well as change the way the individual thinks about food, eating and their body image (Curtis).

Cognitive-behavioral therapy is considered to be one of the most effective treatments for eating disorders, but of course this depends on both the counselor administrating the therapy and the attitude of the person receiving it.  According to Fairburn (3), while patients with eating disorders “have a reputation for being difficult to treat, the great majority can be helped and many, if not most, can make a full and lasting recovery.” In the study conducted by Lobera et al, it was determined that students that took part in group cognitive-behavioral therapy sessions showed a reduced dissatisfaction with their body and a reduction in their drive to thinness. Self esteem was also improved during the group therapy sessions and eating habits were significantly improved.

“The overall effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy can depend on the duration of the sessions. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is considered effective for the treatment of eating disorders. But because eating disorder behaviors can endure for a long period of time, ongoing psychological treatment is usually required for at least a year and may be needed for several years (Curtis).”

  Alternative solutions

Traditional treatments for Eating Disorders rely on educating potential sufferers, especially school aged children, of the potential damage, both psychological and physical, that can be caused by the various eating disorders .

“ Research conducted to date into the primary prevention of eating disorders (ED) has mainly considered the provision of information regarding risk factors. Consequently, there is a need to develop new methods that go a step further, promoting a change in attitudes and behavior in the  target population (Lobera et al).”

The current research has not shown that passive techniques, such as providing information, reduces the prevalence of eating disorders or improves the condition in existing patients. While education about eating disorders, the signs and symptoms and the potential health affects, is an important part of providing information to both the those that may know someone who is suffering from an eating disorder and those that are suffering from one, it is not an effective treatment by itself. It must be integrated with a deeper level of therapy that helps to improve the self-esteem and psychological issues from which the eating disorder stems.

Hospitalization has also been a treatment for those suffering from an eating disorder, especially when a complication, such as kidney failure or extreme weakness, occurs. However, treating the symptom of the eating disorder will not treat the underlying problem. Hospitalization can effectively treat the symptom only when it is combined with a psychological therapy that treats the underlying psychological problem that is causing the physical health problem.

Effectively treating eating disorders is possible using cognitive-behavioral therapy. However, the sooner a person who is suffering from an eating disorder begins treatment the more effective the treatment is likely to be. The longer a person suffers from an eating disorder, the more problems that may arise because of it, both physically and psychologically. While the deeper underlying issue may differ from patient to patient, it must be addressed in order for an eating disorder treatment to be effective. If not, the eating disorder is likely to continue. By becoming better educated about the underlying mental health issues that are typically the cause of eating disorder, both family members and friends of loved ones suffering from eating disorders and the sufferers themselves can take the steps necessary to overcome Eating Disorder and begin the road to recovery.

Works Cited

“Associated Mental Health Conditions and Addictions.” Something Fishy, 2010. Web. 19 November2010.

Carruthers, Martyn. Who Has Eating Disorders?   Soulwork Solutions, 2010. Web. 19 November 2010.

Curtis, Jeanette. “Cognitive-behavioral Therapy for Eating Disorders.” WebMD (September 16, 2009). Web. 19 November 2010.

Fairburn, Christopher G. Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Eating Disorders. New York: The Guilford Press, 2008. Print.  

“Health Consequences of Eating Disorders” National Eating Disorders Association (2005). Web. 21 November 2010.

Lobera, I.J., Lozano, P.L., Rios, P.B., Candau, J.R., Villar y Lebreros, Gregorio Sanchez, Millan, M.T.M., Gonzalez, M.T.M., Martin, L.A., Villalobos, I.J. and Sanchez, N.V. “Traditional and New Strategies in the Primary Prevention of Eating Disorders: A Comparative Study in Spanish Adolescents.” International Journal of General Medicine 3  (October 5, 2010): 263-272. Dovepress.Web. 19 November 2010.

Segal, Jeanne, Smith, Melinda, Barston, Suzanne. Helping Someone with an Eating Disorder: Advice for Parents, Family Members and Friends , 2010. Web. 19 November 2010.

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Essay on Eating Disorder

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Eating disorders represent a complex intersection of psychological, physical, and social issues. They are not just about food but are serious mental health conditions. This essay aims to delve into the various aspects of eating disorders, exploring their types, causes, effects, and treatments, providing a comprehensive understanding for students and individuals keen on understanding this intricate topic.

Eating Disorders

Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions characterized by an unhealthy preoccupation with eating, exercise, and body weight or shape. They can have devastating physical and psychological consequences. The most common eating disorders include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder.

• Anorexia Nervosa: Anorexia is characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image, leading individuals to restrict their food intake drastically. This can result in severe malnutrition, physical health issues, and even life-threatening conditions.
• Bulimia Nervosa: Bulimia involves recurrent episodes of binge eating, followed by behaviors aimed at compensating for the excessive calorie intake, such as purging through vomiting, excessive exercise, or laxative use. This cycle of overeating and purging can have serious health consequences.
• Binge-Eating Disorder: Binge-eating disorder is marked by recurrent episodes of consuming large quantities of food in a short period, often without control. Unlike bulimia, individuals with this disorder do not engage in purging behaviors, which can lead to obesity and related health issues.
• Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID): ARFID is characterized by highly selective eating patterns, avoiding certain foods or food groups based on sensory issues, aversions, or limited interest in food. This disorder can result in nutritional deficiencies and impaired growth in children.
• Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorders (OSFED): OSFED, previously known as EDNOS (Eating Disorder Not Otherwise Specified), includes a range of eating disorders that do not fit the strict criteria for anorexia, bulimia, or binge-eating disorder. It encompasses various disordered eating patterns.
• Night Eating Syndrome: Individuals with night eating syndrome consume a significant portion of their daily caloric intake during the nighttime. They may wake up to eat, often experiencing insomnia and emotional distress.
• Muscle Dysmorphia (Bigorexia): Muscle dysmorphia primarily affects men and is characterized by an obsessive desire to gain muscle mass and an intense fear of being inadequately muscular. It can lead to excessive exercise and supplement use.

Causes of Eating Disorders

Eating disorders are caused by a complex interplay of genetic, biological, behavioral, psychological, and social factors.

• Genetic Factors : Family and twin studies suggest a genetic predisposition to eating disorders.
• Psychological Factors : Low self-esteem, perfectionism, and impulsive behavior are commonly associated with eating disorders.
• Social Factors : Cultural pressures that glorify thinness and body shaming can trigger eating disorders.

Effects of Eating Disorders

The effects of eating disorders can be severe and far-reaching.

• Malnutrition: Eating disorders often lead to severe malnutrition, resulting in vitamin and mineral deficiencies, weakened immune system, and fragile bones.
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Individuals with eating disorders may experience digestive problems such as constipation, bloating, and acid reflux.
• Cardiovascular Problems: Heart complications, such as irregular heart rhythms, low blood pressure, and increased risk of heart attack, can occur.
• Dental Issues: Frequent vomiting associated with some eating disorders can lead to dental problems, including tooth decay and erosion.
• Hair and Skin Problems: Hair loss, brittle nails, and dry, discolored skin are common physical effects.
• Anxiety and Depression: Eating disorders are often co-occurring with anxiety and depression, exacerbating these mental health conditions.
• Obsessive Thoughts: Individuals with eating disorders may become obsessed with food, body size, and weight, leading to distressing and intrusive thoughts.
• Low Self-esteem: Persistent body dissatisfaction and distorted body image contribute to low self-esteem and poor self-worth.
• Social Isolation: Eating disorders can lead to social withdrawal, isolation, and strained relationships with friends and family.
• Emotional Instability: Mood swings, irritability, and emotional instability are common effects of eating disorders.
• Secrecy and Deception: Many individuals with eating disorders engage in secretive behaviors related to eating, hiding their disordered eating habits.
• Ritualistic Eating: Rigid food rituals and routines, such as eating specific foods in specific orders, are common among those with eating disorders.
• Excessive Exercise: Over-exercising is often seen in individuals with certain eating disorders, leading to physical strain and potential injuries.
• Food Hoarding or Bingeing: Some may hoard food or engage in secretive binge-eating episodes, followed by guilt and shame.
• Electrolyte Imbalance: Frequent purging behaviors (vomiting, laxative use) can disrupt electrolyte balance, leading to potentially life-threatening conditions like cardiac arrhythmias.
• Osteoporosis: Malnutrition can result in bone density loss, increasing the risk of fractures and osteoporosis.
• Lanugo Hair: Fine, downy hair growth on the body, known as lanugo, may develop in response to malnutrition.
• Organ Damage: Long-term consequences of eating disorders can include damage to vital organs, such as the liver and kidneys.
• Menstrual Irregularities: In females, eating disorders can lead to amenorrhea (absence of menstruation) or irregular menstrual cycles.
• Fertility Problems: Reduced fertility and complications during pregnancy may occur due to hormonal imbalances and nutritional deficiencies.

Treatment of Eating Disorders

Treating eating disorders generally involves a multidisciplinary approach, including medical care, nutritional counseling, and therapy.

• Medical Treatment : Focuses on addressing any immediate health risks.
• Nutritional Counseling : Helps in developing a healthy relationship with food.
• Psychotherapy : Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is particularly effective in treating eating disorders.

Coping Strategies and Support

• Support Groups : Sharing experiences with others facing similar challenges can be comforting.
• Healthy Lifestyle Choices : Engaging in regular physical activity and eating a balanced diet can improve mood and health.
• Professional Help : Seeking timely professional help is crucial for recovery.

In conclusion, Eating disorders are complex conditions that require a comprehensive understanding of their causes, effects, and treatment options. Awareness and education are key in preventing these disorders and encouraging those affected to seek help. As a community, it is vital to foster an environment where body positivity is embraced, and mental health is taken seriously.

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What Causes Eating Disorders?

Reviewed by Psychology Today Staff

No one fully understands what gives rise to these painful and confounding illnesses. Eating disorders likely emerge from a complex relationship between genetics, personality traits, and environmental influences such as childhood experiences, social comparison, stressful or traumatic events, and cultural beauty standards. Although the roots of disordered eating will likely remain a mystery for some time, treatment can help those suffering embark on a successful recovery.

On This Page

• Which personality traits and attitudes are linked to eating disorders?
• Are eating disorders genetic?
• Do stress and trauma lead to eating disorders?
• How do culture, media, and beauty ideals influence eating disorders?
• How common are eating disorders?
• Has the prevalence of eating disorders increased over time?

Eating disorders are connected to perfectionism, obsessive compulsive tendencies, and sensitivity to negative emotions. Low self-esteem and body dissatisfaction are risk factors, as well as mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression.

One of the strongest predictors of eating disorders among girls, research suggests, is the value peers place on weight and eating. This tendency is heightened in college, a community of individuals the same age with few older adults to provide broader perspective. The influence of peer perception may contribute to the proliferation of eating disorders on college campuses.

Research in twins, biological families, and adoptive families show that genetics can render people at greater risk of developing a disorder. People who have a family member with an eating disorder face a much greater risk of developing one themselves. For example, studies show that people are 7 to 12 times more likely to develop anorexia or bulimia if they have a relative with an eating disorder.

Those genetic underpinnings may also help explain why eating disorders often overlap with certain conditions, such as depression, anxiety, and obsessive compulsive disorder.

However, one’s genetic predisposition is only one piece of the puzzle. For most people, a triggering event would also be necessary to spur the development of a disorder.

Eating disorders can be spurred by life transitions as well as stressful or traumatic events. Those incidents—such as starting a new job, a sexual assault, or the death of a loved one—can lead to overwhelming and uncontrollable emotions.

Restricting food intake and regulating weight can lead people to feel a sense of control amid the chaos. And sometimes this is the only aspect of life they think they can control. In this way, a triggering event can lead to a persistent disorder.

Eating disorders are prominent in Western cultures, which place a strong emphasis on thinness, weight, and beauty. This can lead young adults, especially women, to believe that their self-worth is tied to their weight.

Exposure to images of filtered, edited, and perfected bodies leads to self-comparison—a process that occurs quickly, effortlessly, and sometimes unconsciously. Constant comparison can take a heavy toll on self-esteem and body satisfaction.

Cultural and media scripts may contribute to the development of an eating disorder. However, they cannot produce the condition on their own.

The lifetime prevalence of eating disorders among adolescents in the U.S. is 3.8 percent for women and 1.5 percent for men, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Among adults in the U.S., the overall prevalence of binge-eating disorder is 1.2 percent, the overall prevalence of anorexia is 0.6 percent, and the overall prevalence of bulimia is 0.3 percent.

Studies that slightly expand the diagnostic criteria find higher estimates of eating disorders, such as 5 percent of adolescent girls or nearly 8 percent of individuals overall. Eating disorders can occur at any time, but they typically develop in one’s adolescence or early twenties.

Although eating disorders have existed throughout human history, they seem to be growing more widespread today. One large review study found that 3.5 percent of people suffered from an eating disorder in the years 2000 to 2006, yet nearly 8 percent suffered from one in the years 2013 to 2018.

A particularly unsettling trend is that anorexia may be increasing among children. One recent study found that anorexia had increased among 8- to 12-year-olds in the past decade, which is consistent with other research showing that the age of onset for anorexia may be decreasing.

Eating disorder treatment is rife with sensitive and ethical treatment considerations. Adding telehealth therapy to the mix creates new opportunities and potential risks.

Explore the impact of thin privilege on mental health and society at large. Dismantle harmful norms and set intentions for authentic well-being.

Culinary medicine helps people make personal decisions about accessing and eating high-quality meals that help prevent and treat disease and restore well-being.

The popularity of this Type 2 diabetes medication is rising, but some warn of the effects of off-label use by those with eating disorders.

Eating well is a complex challenge of respecting personal desires and societal influences. Don't fight with these tensions or succumb to them—embrace them as polarities to manage.

Specific cognitive factors are associated with attrition, weight loss, and maintenance, but are not usually addressed by the treatment of obesity

There may be important nuances in disordered eating among neurodivergent people, including when disordered eating is considered a clinical concern.

Stop people-pleasing and tuning into one’s wants and desires can help combat disordered eating.

Explore the roots of body insecurity and challenge unrealistic beauty standards for personal and collective liberation.

Research shows that what you eat can improve your well-being. But that doesn’t mean a new fad diet is the way to get those benefits. 

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Factors associated with eating disorders in adolescents: a systematic review

Candy laurine suarez-albor.

1 Faculty of Nursing, Universidad Popular del Cesar, Valledupar, Colombia

Maura Galletta

2 Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Monserrato, Italy

Edna Margarita Gómez-Bustamante

3 Faculty of Nursing, University of Cartagena, Cartagena de Indias, Colombia

Background and aim:

The World Health Organization has placed eating disorders among the priority mental illnesses for children and adolescents given the risk they imply for their health. Recognizing the risk factors associated with this problem can serve as the basis for the design of timely and effective interventions. The objective of the study was to identify the factors associated with eating behavior in adolescents through a systematic review.

Systematic review. Search of the literature in the bibliographic sources CINAHL, CUIDEN, Pubmed, Dialnet, SCIELO and Science Direct. The search was conducted in October and November 2020. The search terms were Eating Disorders, Food Intake, and Adolescents. The evaluation of the methodological quality was carried out using a specific guide for observational epidemiological studies. A narrative synthesis of the findings was made. Additionally, the vote counting and sign test technique was applied.

25 studies were selected. The associated factors were body dissatisfaction, female gender, depression, low self-esteem, higher BMI that increases the risk of eating disorders.

Conclusions:

a high impact of psychological factors was observed. These should be considered in the design of effective interventions to prevent this disease, although the search needs to be broadened to identify larger and more complex studies that allow for a more comprehensive review. ( www.actabiomedica.it )

Introduction

Eating disorders (EDs) are complex and multifactorial pathologies that affect physical and mental health and are life threatening. They are characterized by an excessive preoccupation with the weight and shape of the body or a frank deviation of the body image, accompanied by voluntary restriction of the intake or the presence of episodes of binge eating that cause great suffering, impairment of health and quality of life ( 1 ). The prevalence of eating disorders is variable; in the last two decades several studies have been carried out, especially by the National Institute of Mental Health of the United States, which has compiled cases even from European countries. The countries with the highest cases are Switzerland 12%, Chile 8.3% and Spain 6.2% ( 2 ); Colombia is followed by 4.5% ( 3 ), the United Kingdom 3.7% ( 2 ) and Portugal 3.06% ( 2 ). Countries such as the United States, Italy, Costa Rica, Mexico, Honduras, Venezuela, have numbers between 0.5% -1.5% ( 4 , 5 ). Most of these disorders are more common in women and begin in adolescence, a stage of change where body image is consolidated. This in turn generates numerous crises of identity, physical appearance, friendly or sexual requirements and a struggle for autonomy, traits of perfectionism and self-demand that can lead to low self-esteem, dependence on the environment, difficulty in expressing emotions or expressing aggressiveness ( 6 , 7 ).

The World Health Organization (WHO) has placed eating disorders among the priority mental illnesses for children and adolescents given the risk they imply for their health and the great psychiatric comorbidity ( 8 ). Among the most frequent, depressive disorders 23.3%, anxiety disorders 10%, adaptive disorders 3.3% and negative perception of family relationships 43.3%, which aggravate the problem and cause important complications in the state of health ( 7 , 9 ). For this reason, EDs have become more relevant for the interest in the clinic, research and epidemiology ( 9 ). Various factors intervene in the occurrence of eating disorders and show a higher attributable risk such as biological, psychological, family and sociocultural ( 2 - 7 ). Thus, scientific evidence is abundant when addressing various aspects of eating disorders, however the state of the art revealed that in the last five years no literature review have been published on the subject, which is relevant to design or guide effective interventions that allow professionals to prevent these events. In this sense, the aim of this work was to carry out an exhaustive review of the published evidence about the factors associated with eating behaviour in adolescents.

A systematic review was carried out according to the guidelines of the PRISMA ( 10 ) statement, in the bibliographic sources LILACS, CUIDEN, Pubmed, Dialnet, SCIELO and Science Direct and MEDES. The search was carried out in October and November 2020. The search terms to be used were consulted in the DECS and MESH libraries, to guarantee their standardization, in English and Spanish, they were conjugated in search equations with the Boolean operators AND and OR thus: AND factors (Eating Disorders OR Food Intake OR Eating Behavior) AND adolescent.

Inclusion and exclusion criteria

Articles were selected from cohort, cross-sectional, and case control studies about factors associated with EDs in adolescents. The inclusion criteria were (a) free access articles in full text, (b) primary studies published between 2009 and 2020 to ensure that as many necessary and relevant studies as possible have been included in the review, (c) studies with a sample of adolescents aged from 10 to 19 years, according to the classification provided by the WHO ( 9 ). Dissertation, meta-analysis, review, experimental, intervention, or treatment studies were excluded, as well as studies with a mixed sample (children, adolescents, adults), and investigations without statistical information of association.

Article selection and evaluation of methodological quality

The selection of the articles was carried out in 4 phases. First, title and abstract were read to determine the suitability of the study and elimination of duplicates. Second, full text was read and the inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied. Third, a reverse and forward search was performed on the included studies to locate as many documents as possible. Fourth, the risk of bias was assessed through critical reading based on the Critical Reading Guide for Observational Studies in Epidemiology ( 11 , 12 ). A guide to assess cross-sectional studies was used ( 11 ). This instrument included 31 items that allow for minimizing biases and the confounding effect of internal validity. It was evaluated qualitatively using MB: very good, B: good, A: regular, and NI: does not report. A second guide was used to assess cohort studies and case-control studies ( 12 ). The instrument included 21 items and evaluated qualitatively the followings aspects: selection of subjects, validation of question, evaluation of the final outcomes, confounding factors, statistical analysis, general evaluation of the study, and description of the study, using A: adequately, B: partially, C: improperly, and D: I don’t know. This process was carried out by the first author and was audited by the other authors.

Data extraction

The data were consolidated through a structured booklet in Excel based on two types of information: (i) information about articles’ characteristics such as study sample, main author, year of publication, language, country, design; (ii) information about eating disorder risk factors such as biological, psychological, sociocultural, and family factors.

Data analysis

The information was treated qualitatively and analysed in a narrative way. The results were organized in tables and figures according to the PRISMA statement. Additionally, the found results exceeded the number of 20 articles, so the vote counting technique was applied. Such a technique consisted in granting a positive vote for studies with a statistically significant relationship between a risk factor and EDs, and a negative vote when there was no significant association. Subsequently, the sign test ( 13 , 14 ) was applied to determine if the difference in the number of positive studies was significantly greater than the opposite result. A significance value was established to be less than 0.05. It is important to notice that these techniques are limited but they can help to guide the results of the review in the absence of meta-analysis ( 14 ).

General diagram of the study

Methodological quality assessment

About the cross-sectional studies, 54.5% (n = 12) obtained high methodological quality, 27.2% (n = 7) medium quality, and 4.6% (n = 1) low methodological quality. This study was excluded by the revision. With regard to the cohort studies, it was assumed that studies with adequate rating in 23-26 items were considered to be of high methodological level; medium level was attributed to studies with adequate rating in 19-22 items, and low methodological level was attributed to studies with adequate rating in 18 items or less. In this sense, 100% (n = 3) of the cohort studies obtained a medium methodological quality ( Tab. 1 and Tab. 2 ).

Critical reading and assessment of methodological quality for cross-sectional studies.

Note . Internal validity. It defines whether the study design allows minimizing biases and the confounding effect ( 12 ).

The Items used were:

2. The inclusion and exclusion criteria of participants are indicated, as well as the sources and selection methods.

3. The selection criteria are adequate to answer the question or the objective of the study.

4. The study population, defined by the selection criteria, contains an adequate spectrum of the population of interest.

5. An estimate was made of the size, the level of confidence or the statistical power of the sample to estimate the measures of frequency or association that the study intended to obtain.

6. The number of potentially eligible people is reported, those initially selected, those who accept and those who finally participate or respond; fifteen. Statistical analysis was determined from the beginning of the study.

16. The statistical tests used are specified and appropriate

17. Participant losses, lost data or others were correctly treated

18. The main possible confounding elements were taken into account in the design and in the analysis.

Assessment: MB=very good; B=good; R=regular; NA=not applicable; NI=no information.

Critical reading and assessment of methodological quality for cohort studies.

Note . Cohort studies allow a direct determination of relative risk and allow calculation of the interval between exposure or risk factor and overall study disease ( 12 ). It was scored according to the validity of the question, selection of subjects, evaluation, confounding factors, statistical analysis, general assessment and description of the study. Rating: according to the author, the items were rated as follows: A: adequately; B: partially; C: improperly; D: I don’t know. For the purposes of this review, it was assumed that studies with adequate rating in 23-26 items were considered to be of high methodological level; medium level was attributed to studies with adequate rating in 19-22 items, and low methodological level was attributed to studies with adequate rating in 18 items or less.

Characteristics of the studies

Among the selected studies, 86.4% (n = 19) were cross-sectional design (15─33), 13.6% (n = 3) were cohort studies (34─36). Fifty-percent (n = 11) of the studies were conducted in Latin America (18, 20─22, 24─27, 31─33), 31.8% (n = 7) in Europe (15, 19, 23, 29, 30, 33, 34), 9% (n = 2) in Asia ( 16 , 34 ) 4.6% (n = 1) in Africa ( 17 ), and 4,6% (n = 1) in North America ( 28 ) ( Tab. 3 ).

Synthesis of the studies included in the review.

Factors associated with eating disorders

Different instruments were used to measure the factors associated with eating disorders. In 14.2% (n = 7) of the analysed studies, authors used the Eating Attitude Test (EAT-26) ( 17 , 18 , 20 , 21 , 25 , 30 , 31 ), 11% (n = 5) the Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ) ( 21 , 25 , 27 , 29 , 31 ), and 9.5% (n = 4) the Sociocultural Attitudes Questionnaire towards appearance-3 (SATAQ-3) ( 20 , 28 , 32 , 36 ). About 93% (n = 14) of the studies analysed risk factors and about 7% (n = 1) analysed correct self-image and hours of practiced sport as protective factors (B = 0.11; p = 0.047) ( 30 ). Regarding the risk factors, psychological risks were the most frequently analysed by the studies (71%). They included dissatisfaction with body image, low self-esteem, high depression, high perfectionism, stress, impulsivity, personal and interpersonal insecurity, emotional dysregulation, and ineffectiveness. About 14% of the studies analysed sociocultural factors such as alcohol use-related problematics, internalization of the thinness ideal, influence of media, ridicule related to weight, and being an immigrant adolescent. Also, 7.1% of the studies analysed family factors such as authoritarian family style, family functioning, poor communication, and family care. Lastly, 7.1% of the studies analysed biological factors such as being female. The complete description of the factors is summarized in Tab. 3 .

Analysis of vote counting and sign test

It was found that there was a greater number of studies that reported statistically significant relationships between factors such as body dissatisfaction, female gender, depression, low self-esteem, and higher body mass index (BMI) with eating disorders ( Tab. 4 ). In this sense, adolescents with those risk factors are more likely developing eating disorders.

Analysis by vote counting and sign test.

In the present review, the results show that the main factors associated with eating disorders were psychological-type with a prevalence of the factor inherent the dissatisfaction with body image ( 16 ─ 18 , 21 , 25 , 27 , 29 , 31 , 32 , 35 ). Literature refers that dissatisfaction with body image increases significantly in adolescence due to environmental pressures like media (e.g., television, social networks, virtual and written press) ( 20 , 28 ). They represent channels of transmission of the current body aesthetic model and have a positive or negative impact on an adolescent’s body image. This is more common in women, as it was the biological factor reported in this review. However, the findings are consistent with other studies where dissatisfaction with body image occurs more frequently in females and is positively associated with BMI as a predictor of eating disorders. ( 37 , 38 ). Similarly, BMI appears directly related to dissatisfaction with one’s own body, namely the higher the BMI, the higher the body dissatisfaction ( 25 , 31 ─ 33 , 36 ). This association is more recurrent in female gender ( 17 , 22 , 26 , 28 , 30 ) as girls generally show greater instability of self-image, lower self-esteem and general dissatisfaction with their body, if compared to boys. In most studies, the sample studied was female ( 29 , 33 , 34 , 36 ). Other psychological factors were emerged from the review. They were: appearance orientation ( 28 ), high level of perfectionism ( 23 , 29 ), low self-esteem ( 18 , 29 , 33 , 34 , 36 ), impulsivity ( 22 ), stress, suicidal idea and depression ( 22 , 26 , 27 , 29 , 34 ), eat in the absence of hunger ( 28 ), concern about being overweight, submission ( 24 ), personal and interpersonal insecurity ( 29 , 36 ), and emotional dysregulation ( 33 ). A teenager with low self-esteem shows a negative attitude and evaluation towards himself. In fact, low self-esteem has been repeatedly considered as a relevant factor of vulnerability for the development of EDs. This evidence is supported by a previous review ( 39 ). It is also important to identify depressive and anxiety manifestations that have an impact on food restriction and concerns about figure and weight. The number of studies that supported the relationship between psychological factors and eating disorders was statistically significant according to the sign test.

Socio-cultural factors were analysed in 14.2% of the selected studies ( 15 , 16 , 20 , 24 , 26 , 32 , 36 ). The most frequently revealed were the internalization of the thin ideal followed by the influence of media, weight-related bullying , and immigrant adolescents. These sociocultural factors and the desire to conform to body aesthetic models promoted by media and advertising have a greater likelihood to developing perceptions of body dissatisfaction. Moreno ( 40 ) showed a very high relationship between the influence of the media and the presence of eating disorders in the adolescent population. This is a cultural problem that comes from long ago where the idea that a perfect body is thin and that this it is accepted by society. The media are very important agents in the transmission of messages about the desire for thinness that is constantly present in eating disorders; the media channel social pressure to be thin is obviously stronger on females than males ( 40 ).

A few studies analysed the relationship between family factors and eating disorders ( 19 , 21 , 34 ). However, family functioning, poor communication, family care, and authoritarian styles are factors described in the literature as predisposing to eating disorders by impacting the way adolescents worry about the amount of calories in food and obsessed with food and weight gain. In this sense, parents can play a protective role, but they can also represent a risk factor for their children’s eating behaviour, as adolescents regulate their behaviour according to their parental model from early childhood ( 40 , 41 ).

In this review, we found only one research that addressed protective factors related to physical exercise and correct ideas about body image. This could be due to the fact that research in the last two decades has focused on mitigating or controlling risk factors as the sole basis for interventions to prevent eating disorders in adolescents. However, protective factors make adolescents less vulnerable to the development of eating disorders and facilitate the achievement of physical and mental health, the quality of life of adolescents, the development of healthy habits and social welfare. Protective factors are susceptible to being modified and intensified and do not necessarily occur spontaneously or at random. In this sense, interventions focused on strengthening those factors could be effective to prevent eating disorders behaviours. This requires the development of research that identifies and analyses the protective factors that can be strengthened in adolescents ( 42 ─ 44 ).

Most of the studies included in this systematic review are cross-sectional and in a lower percentage are cohort studies. Spain is the country that has done the most research on the factors associated with eating disorders in adolescents, thus showing a particular interest in this topic. However, this review has shown that there is a plurality of studies in the scientific community from different sociocultural contexts. This can explain why there is variability of risk factors for eating behaviour, although body dissatisfaction is the most common factor emerged from the revision.

The limitations of the review reflect the heterogeneity of the study that does not allow to carry out a meta-analysis and statistic associations between factors. Although the vote count and the sign test allow giving an additional value to the narrative synthesis of the results, they are limited procedures to establish reliable statistical associations with data. In this sense, reviews around the subject with quantitative analysis procedures would be necessary.

Conclusions

Psychological factors were found to be the main risk factors directly related to eating disorders in adolescents. The most common were: dissatisfaction with body image, depression, low self-esteem and higher BMI. Being a woman was also identified as the most reported biological factor associated with eating disorders. These risk factors become relevant when guiding the creation of mental health promotion programs for adolescents and the prevention and early detection of the eating disorders in adolescents.

Conflict of Interest:

Each author declares that he or she has no commercial associations (e.g. consultancies, stock ownership, equity interest, patent/licensing arrangement etc.) that might pose a conflict of interest in connection with the submitted article.

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Argumentative Essay on Eating Disorders

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Going off of these findings, Rieger et al. (2010) came up with an eating disorder-specific model of interpersonal psychotherapy. Due to the significance of social relevance in eating disorders, Rieger et al. laid out factors that played an important role in the development and maintenance of eating disorders. For example, a 2010 study of 208 patients who were diagnosed with AN or bulimia were assessed for interpersonal issues pre- and post-hospitalization. Eating pathology, symptom severity, and interpersonal patterns were examined. […]

Eating Disorders Anorexia

"Abraham, Suzanne, and Derek Llewellyn-Jones. ""Bulimia Nervosa.""Palla, Barbara, and Iris F. Litt. ""Medical Complications Of Eating DisordersIn Adolescents."" Medical Complications occur with eating disorders take place inanyones life. Adolescents being at such a young age if medical complications occur can affect them when they are older as well. For example, bulimia nervosa can mess with a young women's menstrual cycle and when they get older, they might not be able to have kids. This article will help when informing adolescents […]

Body Image and Self Esteem

The impact of low self-esteem and negative body image is adversely affecting adolescents as they try to fit in in a never-ending society of expectations. The definition of body image according to Merriam-Webster's dictionary is "a subjective picture of one's own physical appearance established both by self-observation and by noting the reactions of others. Body image is not just decided by ourselves, it is also decided by others. This occurs when people have physical reactions and facial expressions. The definition […]

The Thin Documentary Analysis: Eating Disorder

Thin documentary is a film that follows four women at the Renfrew facility in Florida who are undergoing treatment for eating disorders. These women include Polly, Shelly, Brittany, and Alisa who range from 15 to 30 years old. The film follows them as they interact with their therapists, nurses, staff, other patients and with one another. Indeed, the documentary exploration regarding the struggles these anorexic women face in this institution in their attempt to improve and live a positive life. […]

Types of Eating Disorders and Treatments

Feeding and eating disorder affects more than 13% of men and woman coming from western countries (Reichenberg & Seligman, 2016). Out of that portion of the population, only about 40%-60% of those affected are said to be in remission from their disorder (Reichenberg & Seligman, 2016). There are many factors that come into play that contribute to the onset of such disorders including, family history, peer dieting, concepts of an ideal body, and some cultural considerations (Reichenberg & Seligman, 2016). […]

Social Media and Eating Disorders: Unveiling the Impact

INTRODUCTION Eating disorders have increased along with the use of social media. Individuals suffering from eating disorders frequently express dissatisfaction with themselves and their identities. They believe that losing weight will help them feel better (Warbrick, 2008). According to the UAMS Department of Pediatrics: Adolescent Medicine, an eating disorder is defined as “a condition in which an individual has an unusual relationship with food and/or consumption of food. This can include restricting food, bingeing, vomiting or otherwise purging after eating, […]

Relationship between Depressive Disorder and Eating Disorder

Abstract Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a mood disorder characterized by intense and persistent feelings of melancholy and disinterest in regular activities for an extended period of time. Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a type of eating disorder categorized by significant weight loss, an intense fear of gaining weight, and a distorted perception of how one views their body shape or weight. These disorders frequently co occur with one another, in fact, according to a study posted on the National Eating […]

The Real Skinny on Anorexia a Merciless Battle with the Mirror

According to the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD) (2018), at least 30,000,000 people of all ages and genders suffer from an eating disorder at any given time in the United States. Of those 30,000,000, at least one person dies every 62 minutes as a direct result of their disorder. Most often, eating disorders affect women between the ages of 12 and 35. Compared to all other mental illnesses, eating disorders have the highest mortality rate (National […]

Eating Disorder and Mental Health Components

Introduction To begin my final project I would like to offer background about my topic in terms of why I choose this and why it is important to me. Mental health is something that has made recent headline’s and is yet shoved under the bed. Mental illness awareness and mental health in general is a touchy topic for most because it does not always convey physical signs and symptoms and often has a negative connotation. Mental health is the well […]

Anorexia Nervosa: Literature Review

Anorexia nervosa, or better known as anorexia, is an eating disorder with which countless women and men battle every day, with worldwide prevalence. Anorexia is considered to be a psychiatric illness, which has long term effects on those who suffer from it, both psychologically and physically. The etiology of anorexia is multifactorial with genetic, biological, environmental, psychological and sociocultural influences. There are many different models of intervention to treat anorexia, which are each met with different measures of success. Social […]

Anorexia: a Mental Disorder

Mental disorders are something that can be found in any human. One of the deadliest mental illnesses is anorexia nervosa. Anorexia nervosa is defined as a serious eating disorder that is characterized primarily by a pathological fear of weight gain leading to faulty eating patterns, malnutrition, and usually excessive weight loss. It has a higher mortality rate than any other mental illness. This disease affects people of all ages, races, genders, sexual orientation, and ethnicities. One in 200 American women […]

Anorexia and Bulimia

Introduction Anorexia and Bulimia are server disorders that is mostly found in girls. Anorexia has the highest mortality rate of any mental disorders, with an estimated 56 times more likely to commit suicide then those who do not suffer from anorexia (Tabitha Farrar, 2014). Being able to recognize the signs and symptoms of anorexia is very important, if recognized early treatment can be started quickly to better help these individuals sooner. Warning Signs Anorexia has many warning signs some of […]

Anorexia Nervosa: Hunger and Satiety

Anorexia Nervosa is defined as a lack of appetite. It is a state of mind that makes the person affected believe that they are too fat and must lose as much weight as possible. ""People with anorexia generally restrict the number of calories, and the types of food they eat. Some people with the disorder also exercise compulsively, purge via vomiting and laxatives, and/or binge eat. (www.nationaleatingdisorders.org). It is a heart-breaking disorder and has affected millions of people every year […]

Anorexia Nervosa: Abnormally Low Body Weight and Fear of Gaining Weight

""Anorexia Nervosa is an eating disorder that has abnormally low body weight and fear of gaining weight. People with anorexia care about what others think of them. Society plays a key role to people who have anorexia because; they put very thin people on the cover of magazines and advertisement. This causes individuals with anorexia to feel, un-pretty, rejected, and fat. This is all based on what the media puts out to the world. (works cited: 1). ""People with anorexia […]

Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia

Introduction Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia are serious disorders among our adolescent girls. According to the eating disorder hope website Anorexia has the highest mobility rate out of all mental disorders, it is important to recognize the signs and symptoms (Hamilton, 2018) so these girls can get the treatment they need. Warning Signs There are many warning signs to Anorexia and Bulimia. According to Nicole Williamson PhD at the Tampa General seminar, (May8, 2018) People with Anorexia might dress in layers, […]

Miss Representation : a Trendy Way Towards Self-Destruction

The marketing media (advertising) and the entertainment industry (movies/tv-shows) created a standard of beauty by which females are taught to judge their own bodies and how others perceive their beauty. The marketing media and the entertainment industry are both powerful tools that barrage young women with extreme images of what is an acceptable body. This is why the marketing media and the entertainment industry are responsible for the increase of body shaming in young women, which has led to an […]

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• Patient Care & Health Information
• Diseases & Conditions
• Binge-eating disorder

Binge-eating disorder is a serious condition. It always involves feeling like you're not able to stop eating. It also often involves eating much larger than usual amounts of food.

Almost everyone overeats on occasion, such as having seconds or thirds of a holiday meal. But regularly feeling that eating is out of control and eating an unusually large amount of food may be symptoms of binge-eating disorder.

People who have binge-eating disorder often feel embarrassed or ashamed about eating binges. People with the disorder often go through periods of trying to restrict or severely cut back on their eating as a result. But this instead may increase urges to eat and lead to a cycle of ongoing binge eating. Treatment for binge-eating disorder can help people feel more in control and balanced with their eating.

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If you have binge-eating disorder, you may be overweight or obese, or you may be at a healthy weight. Most people with binge-eating disorder feel upset about their body size or shape no matter what the number on the scale is.

Symptoms of binge-eating disorder vary but can include:

• Feeling that you don't have control over your eating behavior, for example, you can't stop once you start.
• Often eating much larger than usual amounts of food in a specific amount of time, such as over a two-hour period.
• Eating even when you're full or not hungry.
• Eating very fast during eating binges.
• Eating until you're uncomfortably full.
• Often eating alone or in secret.
• Feeling depressed, disgusted, ashamed, guilty or upset about your eating.

A person with bulimia nervosa, another eating disorder, may binge and then vomit, use laxatives or exercise excessively to get rid of extra calories. This is not the case with binge-eating disorder. If you have binge-eating disorder, you may try to diet or eat less food at mealtimes to compensate. But restricting your diet may simply lead to more binge eating.

How much eating binges affect your mood and ability to function in daily life gives an idea of how serious the condition is for you. Binge-eating disorder can vary over time. The condition may be short-lived, may go away and come back, or may continue for years if left untreated.

When to see a doctor

If you have any symptoms of binge-eating disorder, get medical help as soon as possible. Talk with your healthcare professional or a mental health professional about your symptoms and feelings.

If you're embarrassed by your eating and are worried about talking to your healthcare professional, start by talking with someone you trust about what you're going through. A friend, family member, teacher or faith leader can encourage and support you in taking the first steps to successful treatment of binge-eating disorder.

Talking with a professional with specialty training in eating disorders or reaching out to an organization specializing in eating disorders might be a good place to find support from someone who understands what you're going through.

Helping a loved one who has symptoms

Someone who has binge-eating disorder may become an expert at hiding behavior. This is usually because of feelings of shame and embarrassment about the symptoms. Hiding symptoms can make it hard for others to notice the problem. If you think a loved one may have symptoms of binge-eating disorder, have an open and honest talk about your concerns, but remember to approach the topic with sensitivity. Eating disorders are mental health conditions, and the behaviors are not the fault or choice of the person with this condition.

Give encouragement and support. Offer to help your loved one find a healthcare professional or mental health professional with experience in treating eating disorders. You may help make an appointment. You might even offer to go along.

The causes of binge-eating disorder are not known. But certain genes, how your body works, long-term dieting and the presence of other mental health conditions increase your risk.

Risk factors

Binge-eating disorder is more common in women than in men. People of any age can have binge-eating disorder, but it often begins in the late teens or early 20s.

Factors that can raise your risk of having binge-eating disorder include:

• Family history. You're much more likely to have an eating disorder if your parents or siblings have — or had — an eating disorder. This may point to genes passed down in your family that increase the risk of having an eating disorder.
• Dieting. Many people with binge-eating disorder have a history of dieting. Dieting or limiting calories throughout the day may trigger an urge to binge eat.
• Mental health conditions. Many people who have binge-eating disorder feel negatively about themselves and their skills and accomplishments. Triggers for bingeing can include stress, poor body self-image and certain foods. Certain situations also can be triggers, for example, being at a party, having downtime or driving in your car.

Complications

Mental health conditions and physical problems can happen from binge eating. Complications from binge-eating disorder may include:

• Not feeling comfortable or able to enjoy your life.
• Problems functioning at work, in your personal life or in social situations.
• Isolating or feeling isolated from others socially.
• Weight gain.
• Medical conditions related to weight gain. These may include joint problems, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), poor nutrition and some sleep-related breathing disorders.

Mental health conditions that are often linked with binge-eating disorder include:

• Depression.
• Substance use disorders.
• Suicidal thoughts and behavior.

If you have a child with binge-eating behaviors:

• Model body acceptance, regardless of body shape or size. Make it clear that dieting or restricting food is not healthy unless there's a diagnosed food allergy.
• Talk with your child's healthcare professional about any concerns. The healthcare professional may be in a good position to identify early symptoms of an eating disorder and help get expert treatment right away. The professional also can recommend helpful resources you can use to support your child.
• Binge-eating disorder. In: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders DSM-5-TR. 5th ed. American Psychiatric Association; 2022. https://dsm.psychiatryonline.org. Accessed Dec. 8, 2023.
• Binge eating disorder. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/weight-management/binge-eating-disorder. Accessed Dec. 8, 2023.
• Binge eating disorder. Office on Women's Health. https://www.womenshealth.gov/mental-health/mental-health-conditions/eating-disorders/binge-eating-disorder. Accessed Dec. 8, 2023.
• Giel KE, et al. Binge eating disorder. Nature Reviews. Disease Primers. 2022; doi:10.1038/s41572-022-00344-y.
• Guerdjikova AI, et al. Update on binge eating disorder. Medical Clinics of North America. 2019; doi:10.1016/j.mcna.2019.02.003.
• Scrandis DA, et al. Binge-eating disorder. Nurse Practitioner. 2023; doi:10.1097/01.NPR.0000000000000125.
• Vyvanse (prescribing information). Takeda Pharmaceuticals; 2023. https://www.vyvanse.com. Accessed Dec. 11, 2023.
• Dietary supplements for weight loss. National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/WeightLoss-HealthProfessional/. Accessed Dec. 13, 2023.
• Hewlings SJ. Eating disorders and dietary supplements: A review of the science. Nutrients. 2023; doi:10.3390/nu15092076.
• Ralph AF, et al. Management of eating disorders for people with higher weight: Clinical practice guideline. Journal of Eating Disorders. 2022; doi:10.1186/s40337-022-00622-w.
• Sysko R, et al. Binge eating disorder in adults: Overview of treatment. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Dec. 14, 2023.
• Lebow JR (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic. Dec. 28, 2023.
• Atwood ME, et al. A systematic review of enhanced cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT-E) for eating disorders. International Journal of Eating Disorders. 2019; doi:10.1002/eat.23206.
• Peterson CB, et al. Comparing integrative cognitive-affective therapy and guided self-help cognitive-behavioral therapy to treat binge-eating disorders using standard and naturalistic momentary outcome measures: A randomized controlled trial. International Journal of Eating Disorders. 2020; doi:10;1002/eat.23324.
• Hope starts here. National Eating Disorders Association. https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/. Accessed Jan. 9, 2024.
• What is F.E.A.S.T? Families Empowered And Supporting Treatment for Eating Disorders (F.E.A.S.T.). https://www.feast-ed.org/what-is-feast/. Accessed Jan. 8, 2024.

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Essay on Eating Disorders

Students are often asked to write an essay on Eating Disorders in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Eating Disorders

Understanding eating disorders.

Eating disorders are serious health problems. They occur when individuals develop unhealthy eating habits that can harm their body. They often start with an obsession with food, body weight, or body shape.

Types of Eating Disorders

There are three main types of eating disorders: Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, and Binge Eating Disorder. Each has different symptoms but all can be harmful.

Impact on Health

Eating disorders can damage important body parts like the heart and brain. They can also affect mental health, causing anxiety or depression.

Getting Help

If you or someone you know has an eating disorder, it’s important to seek help. Doctors, therapists, and support groups can provide treatment and support.

250 Words Essay on Eating Disorders

Introduction.

Eating disorders, a category of mental health conditions, have been a subject of increasing concern in contemporary society. They are characterized by severe disturbances in eating behaviors and related thoughts and emotions, often driven by body dissatisfaction and distorted body image.

The most common types are Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, and Binge Eating Disorder. Anorexia is defined by a refusal to maintain a healthy body weight and an obsessive fear of gaining weight. Bulimia involves frequent episodes of binge eating followed by behaviors like forced vomiting to avert weight gain. Binge Eating Disorder is characterized by frequent overeating episodes but without subsequent purging actions.

Sociocultural Influences

Sociocultural factors play a significant role in the onset of eating disorders. The media’s portrayal of an ‘ideal’ body size and shape can contribute to body dissatisfaction and consequently, disordered eating behaviors.

Health Implications

The health implications of eating disorders are severe, impacting both physical and mental health. These can range from malnutrition, organ damage, to increased risk of suicide.

Eating disorders, therefore, are serious conditions that require comprehensive treatment. Increased awareness, early diagnosis, and interventions can significantly improve the prognosis and quality of life for those affected.

500 Words Essay on Eating Disorders

Introduction to eating disorders.

Eating disorders represent a group of serious conditions characterized by abnormal eating habits that can negatively affect a person’s physical and mental health. These disorders often develop from a complex interplay of genetic, psychological, and sociocultural factors.

The Types of Eating Disorders

The most common types of eating disorders are Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, and Binge Eating Disorder. Anorexia Nervosa is characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight, leading to self-starvation and excessive weight loss. Bulimia Nervosa involves cycles of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors like vomiting or excessive exercise. Binge Eating Disorder, the most common eating disorder in the U.S., involves recurrent episodes of eating large amounts of food, often very quickly and to the point of discomfort.

The Underlying Causes

Eating disorders are typically multifactorial and can’t be attributed to a single cause. They often coexist with other mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Genetic predisposition plays a significant role, suggesting that eating disorders can run in families. Sociocultural factors, including societal pressures to be thin, can also contribute to the development of these disorders.

The Impact on Physical and Mental Health

The physical consequences of eating disorders are profound and can be life-threatening. They range from malnutrition, heart conditions, and bone loss in anorexia, to gastrointestinal problems and electrolyte imbalances in bulimia. Binge eating disorder can lead to obesity and related complications like heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

The mental health consequences are equally severe and include depression, anxiety, and increased risk of suicide. Eating disorders can also lead to social isolation and impaired functioning at work or school.

Treatment and Recovery

Treatment for eating disorders typically involves a multidisciplinary approach, combining medical, psychological, and nutritional therapy. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is often effective, helping individuals to understand and change patterns of thought and behavior that lead to disordered eating.

Early intervention is crucial for recovery. However, stigma and lack of understanding about these disorders can often delay treatment. Therefore, raising awareness and promoting understanding about eating disorders is essential.

Eating disorders are serious and complex mental health conditions with significant physical and psychological consequences. Understanding their multifactorial nature is crucial for developing effective prevention and treatment strategies. The importance of early intervention and the role of societal attitudes in both the development and recovery from these disorders cannot be overstated. As a society, we must strive to promote body positivity and mental health awareness to help those struggling with these debilitating conditions.

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, discussing my eating disorder in college essays – too personal or potentially impactful.

Hey guys, so here's the thing – I’ve battled with an eating disorder, and it’s been a significant part of my high school experience. Should I write about overcoming this challenge in my essays, or would it be better to choose a less sensitive subject?

Your courage in facing and overcoming such a personal challenge is commendable. When choosing an essay topic, the key is to focus on how the experience has shaped you and enabled personal growth. If you believe that your journey with an eating disorder has been a transformational part of your high school experience and has changed you in a significant way, it is worth considering as an essay topic.

However, ensure that your narrative is one of resilience and that it showcases how this experience has helped you build up your strengths, rather than solely focusing on the struggle itself. For example, avoid graphic descriptions of what you dealt with, as they may be uncomfortable for admissions officers to read, especially if they have struggled with eating disorders themselves—remember, you never know who is going to be reading your essay.

Rather, focus on how overcoming the hardship of this experience has taught you important life skills, by talking about accomplishments or formative experiences that were enabled by the abilities you developed as a result of your struggle with your eating disorder. This approach will give colleges what they are interested in in any personal statement, which is your ability to persevere and how your experiences have prepared you for the challenges of college life.

In summary, this topic is not too personal if framed correctly. If you're wondering if your approach is working, you can always check out CollegeVine's free peer essay review service, or submit it to an expert advisor for a paid review. Since they don't know you, they can provide an objective perspective that will hopefully give you a sense of how an actual admissions officer would read you essay. Good luck!

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CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.

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Eating Disorders Essay Examples

Unrealistic influences: social media and body image.

Too fat, too skinny, too short, too tall. Am I pretty enough? Why did my friend get more likes on her picture than mine? Nothing is ever good enough. In this generation, media has become a huge influence in our youth and the way we...

Tell Me About Yourself Essay: My Eating Disorder

I never realised how much an eating disorder could control your life, until I had one. I want you to envision a time where you really, truly felt ashamed of who you were. A moment where the people surrounding you didn't get it, and more...

An Overview of Bulimia, Its Symptoms, Causes, Effects, and Treatment Options

Mental disorders consist of a range of ailments that usually have different symptoms. Mental disorders are generally characterized by an expression of abnormal behavior, thoughts, relationship, and emotions with others. There are several mental disorders attributed to general medical conditions, such as catatonia, acquired agraphia,...

Overview of the Causes of Bulimia

There are diverse foundations for bulimia. Ordinarily, when an individual gets a dietary issue a couple of causes are capable in the meantime. It is never only one reason. How about we take a gander at the most widely recognized reasons for bulimia. In opposition...

Eating Disorder: Types, Symptoms and Causes

An eating disorder is a serious and fatal illness that will affect in thoughts and eating behavior. It involves ether eating too little that the person will be thin or eating too much in the same time which will lead to weight gain. Eating disorder...

Eating Disorders in Athletes

Athletes are not immune to mental illness. They suffer from a variety of psychiatric conditions. Ranging from depression and anxiety to eating disorders. Disordered eating in athletes is quite common, especially in female athletes. Many female athletes feel pressured into fitting into the stereotypical appearance...

Eating Disorders and Sweets: Getting Through Halloween

For those with an eating disorder, Halloween is a challenging time. Eating disorders and sweets do not typically go together easily, so all that holiday candy can increase stress and hamper recovery. However, it is possible to enjoy Halloween while in recovery from an eating...

Eating Disorders: Your School Isn’t Safe

On a common Monday of December, with 31 years, Kate Chilver lost the fight against anorexia. The British girl died after suffering almost 20 years of the disease. Her case has been described by the doctors of the United Kingdom as the worst seen ever....

Malnutrition – One of the Urgent Problems Nowadays

Malnutrition is a common Health problem. It is the unhealthy condition that results from not eating enough food or not eating enough healthy food. Also, it is the general term for the medical condition caused by an improper insufficient diet. This is a serious condition...

The Public Health Issue of Malnutrition, and Its Solutions

Malnutrition is a significant public health issue facing the world today. It is seen in every country. Worldwide, nearly 2 billion people are overweight and nearly half a million are underweight (WHO, 2016). Generally defined as “deficiencies, excesses or imbalances in energy intake or nutrients”...

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About Eating Disorders

An eating disorder are behavioral conditions characterized by severe and persistent disturbance in eating behaviors and associated distressing thoughts and emotions.

Types of eating disorders include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, avoidant restrictive food intake disorder, other specified feeding and eating disorder, pica and rumination disorder.

Genetics, psychological issues, personality traits, celiac disease, environmental influences, food insecurity, trauma, heterosexism.

Serious health problems, depression and anxiety, suicidal thoughts or behavior, problems with growth and development, social and relationship problems, substance use disorders, work/education issues, death.

30 million people in the U.S. have an eating disorder and 95 percent of people with eating disorders are between the ages 12 and 25. Eating disorders have the HIGHEST risk of death of any mental illness, they affect all genders, all races, and every ethnic group. Genetics, environmental factors, and personality traits all contribute to the risk of developing an eating disorder.

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