Below is a list of some celebrities who have come forward about there eating disorders. This list does not include all that have admitted to suffering from a disorder.
Alanis Morissette
Canadian singer Alanis Morissette has admitted that she struggled with anorexia and bulimia between the ages of 14 and 18, but is now recovered.
"I work out about two times a week instead of nine," she said. "I'm still a part of society, but I'm better able to challenge it than when I was 14."
Ana Carolina Reston
Brazilian fashion model Ana Carolina Reston died at age 21 from complications of anorexia in November of 2006.
"Take care for your children because their loss is irreparable," Reston's mother, Miriam, told the O Globo newspaper. "Nothing can make the pain go away. No money in the world is worth the life of your child."
Ashlee Simpson
American singer Ashlee Simpson, the younger sister of highly successful actress and singer Jessica Simpson, admits battling an eating disorder in her pre-teen years. Despite being photographed at very low weights in the recent past, Ashlee insists that she has fully recovered.
"I think I have good curves, and they're womanly," she says. "I hate it when girls lose their curves. "I think it's sexy not to be a bone and it's sad when people get too weight-conscious and don't look in the mirror and see themselves as being as beautiful as they are."
Barbara Niven
Actress Barbara Niven has come forward about her hidden struggle:
"I did it all: anorexia, bulimia, binging, over-exercise. But no matter how much weight I lost I could never look "skinny". It's not my body type! So I always felt disgusting and like a failure. I hated myself and my body, but always tried to hide how I felt behind a smile. It was my secret shame."
Calista Flockhart
The actress made famous as "Ally McBeal" long denied having an eating disorder, but later came forward to admit that she had.
"I am much more healthy these days," she says, despite no evidence of significant weight gain.
Cathy Rigby
Gymnast Cathy Rigby was the first American woman to win a gold medal in a World Gymnastics Competition, which she did at the 1968 Summer Olympics. She now reports that most of the USA national team suffered from eating disorders, without the official label. "We didn't know very much about nutrition. Neither did the coaches," she says.
Cathy got help for her eating disorder in the 1980's, and now travels the country speaking about her experiences, in the hopes of helping someone else.
Christy Henrich
In 1988, Christy was told by a U.S. judge that she had to lose weight in order to make the Olympic team. When she failed the cut, her weight dropped drastically. She died from complications of anorexia, at 22 years old and 60 pounds.
Daniel Johns
Australian rocker Daniel Johns from the band Silverchair has been open about his history of anorexia and depression, which nearly led him to suicide in his teenage years.
The incidence of eating disorders in Australia has doubled in the past ten years, recent studies show.
Elisa Donovan
Actress Elisa Donovan engaged in chronic dieting as a teenager, leading to a battle with anorexia nervosa, from which she is now recovered. "At first, I'd eat no fat," Elisa says of her disordered eating. "Then, I'd just eat breakfast--cereal and toast--and not eat again until night."
Elton John
The legendary British musician and composer entered rehabilitation in 1990 for substance abuse problems and bulimia. Post-recovery, he came out as a homosexual, and today enjoys as much success as ever.
In 1997, he was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II.
Felicity Huffman
Actress Felicity Huffman fought anorexia and bulimia throughout her teens and into her early twenties. She sought help with the support of her family at age 22.
Today, Felicity stars in the wildly popular ABC hit Desperate Housewives.
Fiona Apple
Singer-songwriter Fiona Apple developed anorexia in her young teens. She attributes her disorder, not to a desire to be thin, but to the emotional trauma she sustained from her rape at age 12.
Gelsey Kirkland
Renowned ballerina Gelsey Kirkland published a co-authored autobiography in 1986, chronicling her double-life as an acclaimed dancer and self-hating anorexic.
Wikipedia bills Gelsey as "one of the first Ballet dancers to embrace plastic surgery to improve her on-stage 'line' and working herself literally almost to death."
Geri Halliwell
Geri Halliwell, best known as "Ginger" from the pop sensation the Spice Girls, publicly admits struggling with anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating for many years. Her weight has yo-yoed throughout her career, but she champions honesty as the path to recovery.
"I can honestly tell you from personal experience, that worrying about an eating disorder really can get you down. There's nothing to be ashamed about. You'll be amazed at the difference it'll make to your whole life if you tell someone you trust. There are lots of people who want to help and you really CAN'T fight this one on your own. It might be a hard decision to make, to tell people and to seek help but, trust me it's nowhere as hard as trying to deal with it on your own," she says.
Heidi Guenther
Ballerina Heidi Guenther was told at 5'5" and 96 lbs that she was too "chunky" by a theater company. In 1997, she died of complications of anorexia, at age 22 and less than 93 lbs.
Jane Fonda
Multi-talented celebrity Jane Fonda was one of the first famous women to openly discuss her eating disorder. In the late 1970s, she went public with her "bulimarexia."
She has enjoyed success as a fitness guru and actress, her career spanning more than three decades.
Karen Carpenter
In one of the most widely publicized deaths due to anorexia, singer Karen Carpenter suffered cardiac arrest at age 32 as a direct result of self-starvation.
Kate Beckinsale
British actress Kate Beckinsdale has been open from the start about her struggle with anorexia before pursuing film. She prefers not to make the story of her eating disorder the main point of focus in her career.
"People keep asking me about it but I don't want to be famous for being a former anorexic," she says.
Kate Dillon
Kate Dillon starved herself to maintain the body she needed as a high-fashion model. Today, post-recovery, she is more successful than ever in her career as a plus-size model.
Kate Winslet
British-born actress Kate Winslet admits to eating disorder problems in her youth, though she has, over the years, put on a healthy amount of weight.
"I'm happy with the way I am," she says now. "I'm not like American film stars. I'm naturally curvy. This is me, like it or lump it."
Katherine McPhee
American Idol Season 5 runner-up Katherine McPhee has been outspoken about her recovery from bulimia. She spent time between the inital auditions and the live show in a rehabilitation program, and credits the show as the motivation she needed to seek help for her 5-year battle.
Mary-Kate Olsen
Actress Mary-Kate Olsen is the poster child for the pro-anorexia online movement, and is commonly used as "thinspiration" on these sites. Following a long period of denial, Mary-Kate eventually entered rehab, but has been unsuccessful at gaining and maintaining a significant amount of weight.
Paula Abdul
Pop singer Paula Abdul admits to struggling with bulimia and issues with compulsive over-exercise in the past.
She was one of three judges on the Fox show American Idol, amidst scandal surrounding alleged drug use.
Princess Diana
England's beloved Princess Diana, activist and ex-wife of Prince of Wales Charles, confessed self-harm and bulimia to the British media.
Diana died tragically in a car accident involving a paparazzi chase in August 1997.
Sally Field
Actress Sally Field fought a 3-year bout with eating disorders, beginning at age 20, believing that "everyone was Twiggy, except me."
Sandra Dee
Actress and cultural icon Sandra Dee says: "I was anorexic for many, many years -- even before people knew what it was. They didn't even have a name for it back then."
Today, Sandra is constantly under a doctor's supervision, and goes in for monthly blood tests, as years of starvation and substance abuse have taken a toll on her body.
Tracey Gold
Actress Tracey Gold, made famous on the show "Growing Pains," was diagnosed with an eating disorder in 1990, after years of struggle, and recovered with the help of her family, friends, and husband. She has written a book to help others overcome what she suffered through.
Victoria Beckham
"Posh Spice" Victoria Beckham, wife of the famous soccer player, denied allegations of anorexia for a long time, before admitting to her problem in an excerpt from her book, Learning to Fly
Wynonna Judd
Country singer Wynonna Judd has admitted to struggling with compulsive over-eating. She has been through rehabilitation, but continues to have problems with her weight.
Monday, April 26, 2010
Improve your self-image
Self-help for eating disorders: Improving your self-image
You are more than what you weigh, a fact you lose sight of when you have an eating disorder. When you base your self-worth on physical appearance alone, you’re ignoring all the other qualities, accomplishments, and abilities that make you beautiful. Think about your friends and family members. Do they love you for the way you look or who you are? Chances are, your appearance ranks low on the list of what they love about you–and you probably feel the same about them. So why does it top your own list?
Placing too much importance on how you look leads to low self-esteem and insecurity. But you can learn to see yourself in a positive, balanced way:
• Make a list of your positive qualities. Think of all the things you like about yourself. Are you smart? Kind? Creative? Loyal? Funny? What would others say are your good qualities? Include your talents, skills, and achievements. Also think about bad qualities you don’t have.
• Focus on what you like about your body. Instead of searching for flaws when you look in the mirror, appreciate the things you like about your appearance. If you’re distracted by “imperfections,” remind yourself that nobody’s perfect. Even supermodels get airbrushed.
• Challenge negative self-talk. When you catch yourself being self-critical or pessimistic, stop and challenge the negative thought. Ask yourself what evidence you have to support the idea. What is the evidence against it? Just because you believe something, doesn’t mean it’s true. Answering these questions will help you see things in a more realistic light.
Tips to Improve your Body Image
Wear clothes you feel comfortable in.
- Dress to express yourself, not to impress others. You should feel good in what you wear.
Cut labels out of your clothes
- Don’t focus on a number. The size on the tags shouldn’t dictate your mood for the day!
Stay away from the scale
- If your weight needs to be monitored, leave that up to the doctors. How much you weigh should never affect your self-esteem.
Stay away from fashion magazines
- Unless you can look through these magazines knowing they are purely fantasy, it’s just better to stay away from them.
Do nice things for your body
- Get a massage, a manicure, or a facial. Pamper yourself with a candlelight bath, scented lotion, or a new perfume.
(Something FISHY website)
You are more than what you weigh, a fact you lose sight of when you have an eating disorder. When you base your self-worth on physical appearance alone, you’re ignoring all the other qualities, accomplishments, and abilities that make you beautiful. Think about your friends and family members. Do they love you for the way you look or who you are? Chances are, your appearance ranks low on the list of what they love about you–and you probably feel the same about them. So why does it top your own list?
Placing too much importance on how you look leads to low self-esteem and insecurity. But you can learn to see yourself in a positive, balanced way:
• Make a list of your positive qualities. Think of all the things you like about yourself. Are you smart? Kind? Creative? Loyal? Funny? What would others say are your good qualities? Include your talents, skills, and achievements. Also think about bad qualities you don’t have.
• Focus on what you like about your body. Instead of searching for flaws when you look in the mirror, appreciate the things you like about your appearance. If you’re distracted by “imperfections,” remind yourself that nobody’s perfect. Even supermodels get airbrushed.
• Challenge negative self-talk. When you catch yourself being self-critical or pessimistic, stop and challenge the negative thought. Ask yourself what evidence you have to support the idea. What is the evidence against it? Just because you believe something, doesn’t mean it’s true. Answering these questions will help you see things in a more realistic light.
Tips to Improve your Body Image
Wear clothes you feel comfortable in.
- Dress to express yourself, not to impress others. You should feel good in what you wear.
Cut labels out of your clothes
- Don’t focus on a number. The size on the tags shouldn’t dictate your mood for the day!
Stay away from the scale
- If your weight needs to be monitored, leave that up to the doctors. How much you weigh should never affect your self-esteem.
Stay away from fashion magazines
- Unless you can look through these magazines knowing they are purely fantasy, it’s just better to stay away from them.
Do nice things for your body
- Get a massage, a manicure, or a facial. Pamper yourself with a candlelight bath, scented lotion, or a new perfume.
(Something FISHY website)
Healthy eating tips
Self-help for eating disorders: Learning healthy eating habits
If you’ve been struggling with an eating disorder, chances are you’ve forgotten what healthy eating looks like. But learning and establishing healthy eating habits is an essential step in recovery from anorexia and bulimia.
• Stick to a regular eating schedule. You may be used to skipping meals or fasting for long stretches. But when you starve yourself, food becomes all you think about. To avoid this preoccupation, make sure to eat every three hours. Plan ahead for meals and snacks, and don’t skip!
• Challenge your strict eating rules. Strict rules about food and eating fuel anorexia and bulimia, so it’s important to replace them with healthier ones. For example, if you have a rule forbidding all desserts, change it into a less rigid guideline such as, “I won’t eat dessert every day.” You won’t gain weight by enjoying an occasional ice cream or cookie.
• Don’t diet. Healthy eating–not dieting–is the key to avoiding weight gain. Instead of focusing on what you shouldn’t eat, focus on nutritious foods that will energize you and make your body strong. Think of food as fuel for your body. Your body knows when the tank is low, so listen to it. Eat when you’re truly hungry, then stop when you’re full. If you follow these simple guidelines, your body will look and feel its best.
Developing a plan for healthy eating
In order to make a healthy eating plan, you need to know the basics about nutrition. Once you learn what a well-balanced diet looks like, you’ll be able to make healthier choices for yourself.
If you’ve been struggling with an eating disorder, chances are you’ve forgotten what healthy eating looks like. But learning and establishing healthy eating habits is an essential step in recovery from anorexia and bulimia.
• Stick to a regular eating schedule. You may be used to skipping meals or fasting for long stretches. But when you starve yourself, food becomes all you think about. To avoid this preoccupation, make sure to eat every three hours. Plan ahead for meals and snacks, and don’t skip!
• Challenge your strict eating rules. Strict rules about food and eating fuel anorexia and bulimia, so it’s important to replace them with healthier ones. For example, if you have a rule forbidding all desserts, change it into a less rigid guideline such as, “I won’t eat dessert every day.” You won’t gain weight by enjoying an occasional ice cream or cookie.
• Don’t diet. Healthy eating–not dieting–is the key to avoiding weight gain. Instead of focusing on what you shouldn’t eat, focus on nutritious foods that will energize you and make your body strong. Think of food as fuel for your body. Your body knows when the tank is low, so listen to it. Eat when you’re truly hungry, then stop when you’re full. If you follow these simple guidelines, your body will look and feel its best.
Developing a plan for healthy eating
In order to make a healthy eating plan, you need to know the basics about nutrition. Once you learn what a well-balanced diet looks like, you’ll be able to make healthier choices for yourself.
Do's and Don't when coping with the disorder
Coping with anorexia and bulimia: Emotional Do and Don't Lists
Do…
• allow yourself to be vulnerable with people you trust
• fully experience every emotion
• be open and accepting of all your emotions
• use people to comfort you when you feel bad, instead of focusing on food
• let your emotions come and go as they please without fear
Don’t…
• pretend you don’t feel anything when you do
• let people shame or humiliate you for having or expressing feelings
• avoid feelings because they make you uncomfortable
• worry about your feelings making you fall apart
• focus on food when you’re experiencing a painful emotion
The Food and Feelings Workbook by Karin R. Koenig, Gurze Books
Do…
• allow yourself to be vulnerable with people you trust
• fully experience every emotion
• be open and accepting of all your emotions
• use people to comfort you when you feel bad, instead of focusing on food
• let your emotions come and go as they please without fear
Don’t…
• pretend you don’t feel anything when you do
• let people shame or humiliate you for having or expressing feelings
• avoid feelings because they make you uncomfortable
• worry about your feelings making you fall apart
• focus on food when you’re experiencing a painful emotion
The Food and Feelings Workbook by Karin R. Koenig, Gurze Books
How to deal with the disorder
Self-help for eating disorders: Learning new coping skills
Anorexia and bulimia aren’t about food. They’re about using food to cope with painful emotions such as anger, self-loathing, vulnerability, and fear. Disordered eating is a coping mechanism–whether you refuse food to feel in control, binge for comfort, or purge to punish yourself. But you can learn healthier ways to cope with negative emotions.
The first step is figuring out what’s really eating you up inside. Remember, “fat” is not a feeling, so if you feel overweight and unattractive, stop and ask yourself what’s really going on. Are you upset about something? Depressed? Stressed out? Lonely? Once you identify the emotion you’re experiencing, you can choose a positive alternative to starving or stuffing yourself.
Here are a few suggestions to get you started:
- call a friend
- listen to music
- play with a pet
- read a good book
- take a walk
- write in a journal
- go to the movies
- get out into nature
- play a favorite game
- do something nice for someone else
Anorexia and bulimia aren’t about food. They’re about using food to cope with painful emotions such as anger, self-loathing, vulnerability, and fear. Disordered eating is a coping mechanism–whether you refuse food to feel in control, binge for comfort, or purge to punish yourself. But you can learn healthier ways to cope with negative emotions.
The first step is figuring out what’s really eating you up inside. Remember, “fat” is not a feeling, so if you feel overweight and unattractive, stop and ask yourself what’s really going on. Are you upset about something? Depressed? Stressed out? Lonely? Once you identify the emotion you’re experiencing, you can choose a positive alternative to starving or stuffing yourself.
Here are a few suggestions to get you started:
- call a friend
- listen to music
- play with a pet
- read a good book
- take a walk
- write in a journal
- go to the movies
- get out into nature
- play a favorite game
- do something nice for someone else
Treatment and finding help
*For help and support for anorexia and bulimia, call1-800-931-2237, a toll-free hotline offered by the National Eating Disorders Association.
Important recovery tips from anorexia and bulimia involves:
• Learning to listen to your body
• Learning to listen to your feelings
• Learning to trust yourself
• Learning to accept yourself
• Learning to love yourself
Eating disorder treatment step #1: Find a specialist
The first step in eating disorder treatment is finding a doctor or therapist who specializes in anorexia and bulimia. As you search, focus on finding the right fit. Your relationship with your doctor or therapist is important to the recovery process. Look for someone who makes you feel comfortable, accepted, and safe.
Eating disorder treatment referrals
• National Eating Disorders Association
• Eating Disorder Referral and Information Center
• Something Fishy Website on Eating Disorders
To find an eating disorder treatment specialist in your area:
• Ask your primary care doctor for a referral
• Search online at the eating disorder websites listed to the right
• Check with local hospitals or medical centers
• Ask your school counselor or nurse
• Call the National Eating Disorders Association’s toll-free hotline at 1-800-931-2237 (Mon–Fri, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. PST)
Eating disorder treatment step #2: Address health problems
Anorexia and bulimia can be deadly–and not just if you’re drastically underweight. Your health may be in danger, even if you only occasionally fast, binge, or purge, so it’s important to get a full medical evaluation. If the evaluation reveals health problems, they should take top treatment priority. Nothing is more important than your physical well-being. If you’re suffering from any other life-threatening problem, you may need to be hospitalized. While the thought of hospitalization may be scary, try to remember that it’s sole purpose is to keep you safe!
Eating disorder treatment step #3: Make a long-term treatment plan
Once your health problems are under control, you and your doctor or therapist can work on a long-term recovery plan. First, you’ll need to assemble a complete eating disorder treatment team. Your team might include a family doctor, a psychologist, a nutritionist, a social worker, and a psychiatrist. Then you and your team will develop a treatment plan that’s individualized to meet your needs.
Your eating disorder treatment plan may include:
- Inpatient treatment
- Individual or group therapy
- Family therapy
- Eating disorder education
- Nutritional counseling
- Medical monitoring
What to look for in an eating disorders treatment program
An effective treatment program for an eating disorder doesn’t just address your symptoms and destructive eating habits. It also explores the root causes of the problem—the emotional triggers, your self-image, your sense of hopelessness and helplessness, and your difficulty coping with stress, anxiety, fear, and sadness. And it doesn’t stop there. Good eating disorder treatment also prepares you for life after the program and includes an aftercare plan.
Eating disorder support groups
Anorexia and bulimia are difficult to overcome without support. It’s important to have people you can turn to when you need a sympathetic ear or a word of encouragement. While family and friends can be a huge help, you may also want to join an eating disorder support group. Participating in an eating disorder support group can help you feel less isolated. They provide a safe environment where you can talk freely about your eating disorder and get advice and support from people who know what you’re going through.
Online support for eating disorders
You can find online help for anorexia and bulimia at Internet support groups, chat rooms, and forums. Online resources are particularly helpful if you’re not ready to seek face-to-face help or you don’t have an eating disorder support group in your area.
There are many types of eating disorder support groups. Some are led by professional therapists, while others are moderated by trained volunteers or people who have recovered from an eating disorder.
To find an eating disorder support group in your area:
• Ask your doctor or therapist for a referral
• Call local hospitals and universities
• Call local eating disorder centers and clinics
• Visit your school’s counseling center
• Search the National Eating Disorders Association’s database of free support groups.
Important recovery tips from anorexia and bulimia involves:
• Learning to listen to your body
• Learning to listen to your feelings
• Learning to trust yourself
• Learning to accept yourself
• Learning to love yourself
Eating disorder treatment step #1: Find a specialist
The first step in eating disorder treatment is finding a doctor or therapist who specializes in anorexia and bulimia. As you search, focus on finding the right fit. Your relationship with your doctor or therapist is important to the recovery process. Look for someone who makes you feel comfortable, accepted, and safe.
Eating disorder treatment referrals
• National Eating Disorders Association
• Eating Disorder Referral and Information Center
• Something Fishy Website on Eating Disorders
To find an eating disorder treatment specialist in your area:
• Ask your primary care doctor for a referral
• Search online at the eating disorder websites listed to the right
• Check with local hospitals or medical centers
• Ask your school counselor or nurse
• Call the National Eating Disorders Association’s toll-free hotline at 1-800-931-2237 (Mon–Fri, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. PST)
Eating disorder treatment step #2: Address health problems
Anorexia and bulimia can be deadly–and not just if you’re drastically underweight. Your health may be in danger, even if you only occasionally fast, binge, or purge, so it’s important to get a full medical evaluation. If the evaluation reveals health problems, they should take top treatment priority. Nothing is more important than your physical well-being. If you’re suffering from any other life-threatening problem, you may need to be hospitalized. While the thought of hospitalization may be scary, try to remember that it’s sole purpose is to keep you safe!
Eating disorder treatment step #3: Make a long-term treatment plan
Once your health problems are under control, you and your doctor or therapist can work on a long-term recovery plan. First, you’ll need to assemble a complete eating disorder treatment team. Your team might include a family doctor, a psychologist, a nutritionist, a social worker, and a psychiatrist. Then you and your team will develop a treatment plan that’s individualized to meet your needs.
Your eating disorder treatment plan may include:
- Inpatient treatment
- Individual or group therapy
- Family therapy
- Eating disorder education
- Nutritional counseling
- Medical monitoring
What to look for in an eating disorders treatment program
An effective treatment program for an eating disorder doesn’t just address your symptoms and destructive eating habits. It also explores the root causes of the problem—the emotional triggers, your self-image, your sense of hopelessness and helplessness, and your difficulty coping with stress, anxiety, fear, and sadness. And it doesn’t stop there. Good eating disorder treatment also prepares you for life after the program and includes an aftercare plan.
Eating disorder support groups
Anorexia and bulimia are difficult to overcome without support. It’s important to have people you can turn to when you need a sympathetic ear or a word of encouragement. While family and friends can be a huge help, you may also want to join an eating disorder support group. Participating in an eating disorder support group can help you feel less isolated. They provide a safe environment where you can talk freely about your eating disorder and get advice and support from people who know what you’re going through.
Online support for eating disorders
You can find online help for anorexia and bulimia at Internet support groups, chat rooms, and forums. Online resources are particularly helpful if you’re not ready to seek face-to-face help or you don’t have an eating disorder support group in your area.
There are many types of eating disorder support groups. Some are led by professional therapists, while others are moderated by trained volunteers or people who have recovered from an eating disorder.
To find an eating disorder support group in your area:
• Ask your doctor or therapist for a referral
• Call local hospitals and universities
• Call local eating disorder centers and clinics
• Visit your school’s counseling center
• Search the National Eating Disorders Association’s database of free support groups.
Effects on the physical body
Effects of Eating Disorders
Associated dangers triggered or caused by Eating Disorder Behaviors:
Malnutrition - caused by undereating or overeating. The word malnutrition indicates deficiency for energy, protein and micronutrients (e.g. vitamin A, iodine and iron) either singularly or in combination. It can cause severe health risks including (but not limited to) respiratory infections, kidney failure, blindness, heart attack and death.
Dehydration - caused by the depletion or lack of intake of fluids in the body, or by restriction of carbohydrates and fat. Restriction/Starvation, vomiting and laxative abuse are the primary causes in sufferers of Eating Disorders. Symptoms include dizziness, weakness, or darkening of urine. It can lead to kidney failure, heart failure, seizures, brain damage and death.
Electrolyte Imbalances - electrolyte are essential to the production of the body's "natural electricity" that ensures healthy teeth, joints and bones, nerve and muscle impulses, kidneys and heart, blood sugar levels and the delivery of oxygen to the cells.
Hyponatremia (related to "water-loading") - as stated above, electrolytes are essential to proper body functioning. Drinking too much water (more than eight, eight-ounce glasses in less than twelve hours), can cause Hyponatremia (not enough sodium in the blood), especially in someone already malnourished or dehydrated. Hyponatremia can cause fluid in the lungs, the brain to swell, nausea, vomiting, confusion and even death.
Refeeding Syndrome (related to treatment) - Starved or severely malnourished patients can undergo life-threatening fluid and electrolyte shifts following the initiation of aggressive nutritional support therapies. This phenomenon is known as "refeeding syndrome" and can occur in patients receiving either enteral (tube feeding) or parenteral (intravenous feeding) nutritional support. To avoid the development of the refeeding syndrome, nutrition support in patients at risk should be increased slowly while assuring adequate amounts of vitamins and minerals. Organ function, fluid balance and serum electrolytes (especially phosphorus, potassium and magnesium) need to be monitored daily during the first week and less often thereafter.
Vitamin and Mineral Deficiencies
Lanugo - (soft downy hair on face, back and arms). This is caused due to a protective mechanism built-in to the body to help keep a person warm during periods of starvation and malnutrition, and the hormonal imbalances that result.
Edema - swelling of the soft tissues as a result of excess water accumulation. It is most common in the legs and feet of Compulsive Overeaters and in the abdominal area of Anorexics and/or Bulimics (can be caused by Laxative and Diuretic use).
Muscle Atrophy - wasting away of muscle and decrease in muscle mass due to the body feeding off of itself.
Impaired Neuromuscular Function - due to vitamin and mineral deficiencies (specifically potassium), and malnutrition.
Paralysis - transient (or temporary) paralysis -- extreme weakness of muscles or not being able to move at all -- Caused by low levels of potassium, and/or the degeneration of nerve cells, in the spinal cord or in the brain, which have been deprived of essential nutrients. Left untreated, periods of paralysis may happen more frequently and more severely, lead to permanent muscle weakness, and even result in death.
Tearing of Esophagus - caused by self-induced vomiting
Mallory-Weiss tear - associate with vomiting, a tear of the gastroesophageal junction
Gastric Rupture - spontaneous stomach erosion, perforation or rupture.
Gastrointestinal Bleeding - bleeding into the digestive tract.
Esophageal Reflux - Acid Reflux Disorders - partially digested items in the stomach, mixed with acid and enzymes, regurgitates back into the esophagus. This can lead to damage to the esophagus, larynx and lungs and increases the chances of developing cancer of the esophagus and voice box.
Reflux can sometimes become severe enough that food cannot be kept down at all and medical attention should be sought immediately.
Barrett's Esophagus - associated with Cancer of the esophagus and caused by Esophageal Reflux, this is a change in the cells within the esophagus.
Cancer - of the throat and voice box (Larynx) due to acid reflux disorders.
Insomnia - having problems falling and/or staying asleep.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome - continuous and crippling fatigue related to a weakened immune system.
Hyperactivity - manic bouts of not being able to sit still.
Swelling - in face and cheeks (following self-induced vomiting).
Callused or bruised fingers - this is caused by repeatedly using the fingers to induce vomiting.
Dry Skin and Hair, Brittle Hair and Nails, Hair Loss - cause by Vitamin and Mineral deficiencies, malnutrition and dehydration.
Low Blood Pressure, Hypotension (more common in those with Anorexia and/or Bulimia) - cause by lowered body temperature, malnutrition and dehydration. Can cause heart arrhythmias, shock or myocardial infarction.
Orthostatic Hypotension - sudden drop in blood pressure upon sitting up or standing. Symptoms include dizziness, blurred vision, passing out, heart pounding and headaches.
High Blood Pressure, Hypertension (more common in those with Compulsive Overeating and/or Binge Eating Disorder) - elevated blood pressure exceeding 140 over 90. Can cause: blood vessel changes in the back of the eye creating vision impairment; abnormal thickening of the heart muscle; kidney failure; and brain damage.
Low Platelet Count or Thrombocytopenia -
Caused by low levels of vitamin B12 and Folic Acid, and/or by excessive alcohol. It may also be an indication of a suppressed immune system or immune dysfunction.
Disruptions in Blood Sugar Levels -
Low Blood Sugar/Hypoglycemia: can indicate problems with the liver or kidneys and can lead to neurological and mental deterioration.
lead to diabetes, liver and kidney shut down, circulatory and immune system problems.
Diabetes - high blood sugar as a result of low production of insulin. This can be caused by hormonal imbalances, hyperglycemia, or chronic pancreatitis.
Ketoacidosis - high levels of acids that build up in the blood (known as ketones) caused by the body burning fat (instead of sugar and carbohydrates) to get energy. It can be a result of starvation, excessive purging, dehydration, hyperglycemia and/or alcohol abuse (it can also be a result of uncontrolled or untreated diabetes). It can lead to coma and death.
Iron Deficiency, Anemia - this makes the oxygen transporting units within the blood useless and can lead to fatigue, shortness of breath, increased infections, and heart palpitations.
Kidney Infection and Failure - your kidneys "clean" the poisons from your body, regulate acid concentration and maintain water balance. Vitamin Deficiencies, dehydration, infection and low blood pressure increase the risks of and associated with kidney infection thus making permanent kidney damage and kidney failure more likely.
Osteoporosis - Thinning of the bones with reduction in bone mass due to depletion of calcium and bone protein, predisposing to fractures.
Osteopenia - Below normal bone mass indicating a calcium and/or vitamin D deficiency and leading to Osteoporosis.
* Hormone imbalance/deficiencies associated with the loss of the menstrual cycle can also increase your risks of Osteoporosis and Osteopenia.
Arthritis (degenerative) - can be caused by hormonal imbalances and vitamin deficiencies as well as increased stress on the joints in individuals who suffering Compulsive Overeating.
TMJ "Syndrome" and Related TMJ Problems - degenerative arthritis within the tempero-mandibular joint in the jaw (where the lower jaw hinges to the skull) creating pain in the joint area, headaches, and problems chewing and opening/closing the mouth. Vitamin deficiencies and teeth grinding (often related to stress) can both be causes.
Amenorrhea - Loss of Menstrual Cycle (due to lack of secreting hormone, Oestrogen, by the ovaries). Loss of the menstrual cycle can also lead to Osteopenia and Osteoporosis.
Easily Bruising Skin - Vitamin Deficiencies that decrease the body's ability to heal itself, low blood pressure, low platelets count and/or extreme weight loss will all lead to easily bruised skin that can take a long time to heal.
Dental Problems, Decalcification of teeth, erosion of tooth enamel, severe decay, Gum Disease - will be caused by stomach acids and enzymes (from vomiting); vitamin D and calcium deficiencies, and hormonal imbalance. Can also be due to the lack of exercise the teeth can get from the process of eating certain foods. Dental problems can sometime indicate problems with the heart.
Liver Failure - the liver aids in removing waste from cells, and aids in digestion. You cannot live without your Liver. Fasting and taking acetaminophen (drug found in over-the-counter pain killers) increases your risks for Liver damage and failure. Loss of menstruation and dehydration (putting women at risk for too much iron in their system), and chronic heart failure can lead to liver damage or failure.
Bad Circulation, Slowed or Irregular Heartbeat, Arrhythmias, Angina, Heart Attack - There are many factors associated with having an Eating Disorder that can lead to heart problems or a heart attack. Sudden cardiac arrest can cause permanent damage to the heart, or instant death...
electrolyte imbalances (especially potassium deficiency), dehydration, malnutrition, low blood pressure, extreme orthostatic hypotension, abnormally slow heart rate, electrolyte imbalances, and hormonal imbalances can all cause serious problems with the heart, high blood pressure, accumulation of fat deposits around the heart muscle, high cholesterol, decreased exercise due to lack of mobility, diabetes and hormonal imbalances can all lead to serious problems with the heart.
Infertility - the inability to have children. Caused by loss of menstrual cycle, and hormonal imbalances. Malnutrition and vitamin deficiencies can also make it impossible to succeed with a full-term pregnancy, and can increase the chances significantly of a baby born with birth defects.
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome - a study a few years ago suggested that people with Eating Disorders were at an increased risk for developing Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCO), and that recovery from the Eating Disorder should be part of treatment for PCO.
Problems during pregnancy - including potential for high risk pregnancies, miscarriage, still born babies and death or chronic illness from minor to severe, in children born (all due to malnutrition, dehydration, vitamin and hormone deficiencies).
Depression - mood swings and depression can be cause by physiological factors such as electrolyte imbalances, hormone and vitamin deficiencies, malnutrition and dehydration. Living with the Eating Disorder behaviors themselves will cause depression.
Depression can also lead the sufferer back into the cycle of the Eating Disorder (or may have initially been the problem before the onset of the ED). Stress within family, job and relationships can all be causes. There are also a percentage of people born with a pre-disposition to depression, based on family history.
Can lead to Suicide
Lowered body temperature - Temperature Sensitivity - caused by loss of healthy insulating layer of fat and lowered blood pressure.
Cramps, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, incontinence - increased or decreased bowel activity.
Peptic Ulcers - aggravated or made more severe by increased stomach acids, cigarette smoking, high consumption of caffeine or alcohol
Pancreatitis - this is when the digestive enzymes attack the pancreas. It can be caused by repeated stomach trauma (such as with vomiting), alcohol consumption or the excessive use of laxatives or diet pills.
Digestive Difficulties - a deficiency in digestive enzymes will lead to the bodies inability to properly digest food and absorb nutrients. This can lead to malabsorption problems, malnutrition and electrolyte imbalances. Diseases that may be triggered by a history of an Eating Disorder include: Celiac Disease (gluten sensitivity), and Crohn's Disease
Weakness and Fatigue - caused by generalized poor eating habits, electrolyte imbalances, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, depression, malnutrition, heart problems.
Seizures - the increased risk of seizures in Anorexic and Bulimic individuals may be caused by dehydration, hyperglycemia or ketoacidosis. It is also possible that lesions on the brain caused by long-term malnutrition and lack of oxygen-carrying cells to the brain may play a role. SOME type of antidepressants can increase the risk of seizure and usually carry a warning against prescribing them to people with Eating Disorders, unless the benefits significantly outweigh the risks.
Death caused by any of the following or any combination of the following: heart attack or heart failure; lung collapse; internal bleeding, stroke, kidney failure, liver failure; pancreatitis, gastric rupture, perforated ulcer, depression and suicide.
Facts from the site: http://www.something-fishy.org/dangers/dangers.php
Associated dangers triggered or caused by Eating Disorder Behaviors:
Malnutrition - caused by undereating or overeating. The word malnutrition indicates deficiency for energy, protein and micronutrients (e.g. vitamin A, iodine and iron) either singularly or in combination. It can cause severe health risks including (but not limited to) respiratory infections, kidney failure, blindness, heart attack and death.
Dehydration - caused by the depletion or lack of intake of fluids in the body, or by restriction of carbohydrates and fat. Restriction/Starvation, vomiting and laxative abuse are the primary causes in sufferers of Eating Disorders. Symptoms include dizziness, weakness, or darkening of urine. It can lead to kidney failure, heart failure, seizures, brain damage and death.
Electrolyte Imbalances - electrolyte are essential to the production of the body's "natural electricity" that ensures healthy teeth, joints and bones, nerve and muscle impulses, kidneys and heart, blood sugar levels and the delivery of oxygen to the cells.
Hyponatremia (related to "water-loading") - as stated above, electrolytes are essential to proper body functioning. Drinking too much water (more than eight, eight-ounce glasses in less than twelve hours), can cause Hyponatremia (not enough sodium in the blood), especially in someone already malnourished or dehydrated. Hyponatremia can cause fluid in the lungs, the brain to swell, nausea, vomiting, confusion and even death.
Refeeding Syndrome (related to treatment) - Starved or severely malnourished patients can undergo life-threatening fluid and electrolyte shifts following the initiation of aggressive nutritional support therapies. This phenomenon is known as "refeeding syndrome" and can occur in patients receiving either enteral (tube feeding) or parenteral (intravenous feeding) nutritional support. To avoid the development of the refeeding syndrome, nutrition support in patients at risk should be increased slowly while assuring adequate amounts of vitamins and minerals. Organ function, fluid balance and serum electrolytes (especially phosphorus, potassium and magnesium) need to be monitored daily during the first week and less often thereafter.
Vitamin and Mineral Deficiencies
Lanugo - (soft downy hair on face, back and arms). This is caused due to a protective mechanism built-in to the body to help keep a person warm during periods of starvation and malnutrition, and the hormonal imbalances that result.
Edema - swelling of the soft tissues as a result of excess water accumulation. It is most common in the legs and feet of Compulsive Overeaters and in the abdominal area of Anorexics and/or Bulimics (can be caused by Laxative and Diuretic use).
Muscle Atrophy - wasting away of muscle and decrease in muscle mass due to the body feeding off of itself.
Impaired Neuromuscular Function - due to vitamin and mineral deficiencies (specifically potassium), and malnutrition.
Paralysis - transient (or temporary) paralysis -- extreme weakness of muscles or not being able to move at all -- Caused by low levels of potassium, and/or the degeneration of nerve cells, in the spinal cord or in the brain, which have been deprived of essential nutrients. Left untreated, periods of paralysis may happen more frequently and more severely, lead to permanent muscle weakness, and even result in death.
Tearing of Esophagus - caused by self-induced vomiting
Mallory-Weiss tear - associate with vomiting, a tear of the gastroesophageal junction
Gastric Rupture - spontaneous stomach erosion, perforation or rupture.
Gastrointestinal Bleeding - bleeding into the digestive tract.
Esophageal Reflux - Acid Reflux Disorders - partially digested items in the stomach, mixed with acid and enzymes, regurgitates back into the esophagus. This can lead to damage to the esophagus, larynx and lungs and increases the chances of developing cancer of the esophagus and voice box.
Reflux can sometimes become severe enough that food cannot be kept down at all and medical attention should be sought immediately.
Barrett's Esophagus - associated with Cancer of the esophagus and caused by Esophageal Reflux, this is a change in the cells within the esophagus.
Cancer - of the throat and voice box (Larynx) due to acid reflux disorders.
Insomnia - having problems falling and/or staying asleep.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome - continuous and crippling fatigue related to a weakened immune system.
Hyperactivity - manic bouts of not being able to sit still.
Swelling - in face and cheeks (following self-induced vomiting).
Callused or bruised fingers - this is caused by repeatedly using the fingers to induce vomiting.
Dry Skin and Hair, Brittle Hair and Nails, Hair Loss - cause by Vitamin and Mineral deficiencies, malnutrition and dehydration.
Low Blood Pressure, Hypotension (more common in those with Anorexia and/or Bulimia) - cause by lowered body temperature, malnutrition and dehydration. Can cause heart arrhythmias, shock or myocardial infarction.
Orthostatic Hypotension - sudden drop in blood pressure upon sitting up or standing. Symptoms include dizziness, blurred vision, passing out, heart pounding and headaches.
High Blood Pressure, Hypertension (more common in those with Compulsive Overeating and/or Binge Eating Disorder) - elevated blood pressure exceeding 140 over 90. Can cause: blood vessel changes in the back of the eye creating vision impairment; abnormal thickening of the heart muscle; kidney failure; and brain damage.
Low Platelet Count or Thrombocytopenia -
Caused by low levels of vitamin B12 and Folic Acid, and/or by excessive alcohol. It may also be an indication of a suppressed immune system or immune dysfunction.
Disruptions in Blood Sugar Levels -
Low Blood Sugar/Hypoglycemia: can indicate problems with the liver or kidneys and can lead to neurological and mental deterioration.
lead to diabetes, liver and kidney shut down, circulatory and immune system problems.
Diabetes - high blood sugar as a result of low production of insulin. This can be caused by hormonal imbalances, hyperglycemia, or chronic pancreatitis.
Ketoacidosis - high levels of acids that build up in the blood (known as ketones) caused by the body burning fat (instead of sugar and carbohydrates) to get energy. It can be a result of starvation, excessive purging, dehydration, hyperglycemia and/or alcohol abuse (it can also be a result of uncontrolled or untreated diabetes). It can lead to coma and death.
Iron Deficiency, Anemia - this makes the oxygen transporting units within the blood useless and can lead to fatigue, shortness of breath, increased infections, and heart palpitations.
Kidney Infection and Failure - your kidneys "clean" the poisons from your body, regulate acid concentration and maintain water balance. Vitamin Deficiencies, dehydration, infection and low blood pressure increase the risks of and associated with kidney infection thus making permanent kidney damage and kidney failure more likely.
Osteoporosis - Thinning of the bones with reduction in bone mass due to depletion of calcium and bone protein, predisposing to fractures.
Osteopenia - Below normal bone mass indicating a calcium and/or vitamin D deficiency and leading to Osteoporosis.
* Hormone imbalance/deficiencies associated with the loss of the menstrual cycle can also increase your risks of Osteoporosis and Osteopenia.
Arthritis (degenerative) - can be caused by hormonal imbalances and vitamin deficiencies as well as increased stress on the joints in individuals who suffering Compulsive Overeating.
TMJ "Syndrome" and Related TMJ Problems - degenerative arthritis within the tempero-mandibular joint in the jaw (where the lower jaw hinges to the skull) creating pain in the joint area, headaches, and problems chewing and opening/closing the mouth. Vitamin deficiencies and teeth grinding (often related to stress) can both be causes.
Amenorrhea - Loss of Menstrual Cycle (due to lack of secreting hormone, Oestrogen, by the ovaries). Loss of the menstrual cycle can also lead to Osteopenia and Osteoporosis.
Easily Bruising Skin - Vitamin Deficiencies that decrease the body's ability to heal itself, low blood pressure, low platelets count and/or extreme weight loss will all lead to easily bruised skin that can take a long time to heal.
Dental Problems, Decalcification of teeth, erosion of tooth enamel, severe decay, Gum Disease - will be caused by stomach acids and enzymes (from vomiting); vitamin D and calcium deficiencies, and hormonal imbalance. Can also be due to the lack of exercise the teeth can get from the process of eating certain foods. Dental problems can sometime indicate problems with the heart.
Liver Failure - the liver aids in removing waste from cells, and aids in digestion. You cannot live without your Liver. Fasting and taking acetaminophen (drug found in over-the-counter pain killers) increases your risks for Liver damage and failure. Loss of menstruation and dehydration (putting women at risk for too much iron in their system), and chronic heart failure can lead to liver damage or failure.
Bad Circulation, Slowed or Irregular Heartbeat, Arrhythmias, Angina, Heart Attack - There are many factors associated with having an Eating Disorder that can lead to heart problems or a heart attack. Sudden cardiac arrest can cause permanent damage to the heart, or instant death...
electrolyte imbalances (especially potassium deficiency), dehydration, malnutrition, low blood pressure, extreme orthostatic hypotension, abnormally slow heart rate, electrolyte imbalances, and hormonal imbalances can all cause serious problems with the heart, high blood pressure, accumulation of fat deposits around the heart muscle, high cholesterol, decreased exercise due to lack of mobility, diabetes and hormonal imbalances can all lead to serious problems with the heart.
Infertility - the inability to have children. Caused by loss of menstrual cycle, and hormonal imbalances. Malnutrition and vitamin deficiencies can also make it impossible to succeed with a full-term pregnancy, and can increase the chances significantly of a baby born with birth defects.
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome - a study a few years ago suggested that people with Eating Disorders were at an increased risk for developing Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCO), and that recovery from the Eating Disorder should be part of treatment for PCO.
Problems during pregnancy - including potential for high risk pregnancies, miscarriage, still born babies and death or chronic illness from minor to severe, in children born (all due to malnutrition, dehydration, vitamin and hormone deficiencies).
Depression - mood swings and depression can be cause by physiological factors such as electrolyte imbalances, hormone and vitamin deficiencies, malnutrition and dehydration. Living with the Eating Disorder behaviors themselves will cause depression.
Depression can also lead the sufferer back into the cycle of the Eating Disorder (or may have initially been the problem before the onset of the ED). Stress within family, job and relationships can all be causes. There are also a percentage of people born with a pre-disposition to depression, based on family history.
Can lead to Suicide
Lowered body temperature - Temperature Sensitivity - caused by loss of healthy insulating layer of fat and lowered blood pressure.
Cramps, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, incontinence - increased or decreased bowel activity.
Peptic Ulcers - aggravated or made more severe by increased stomach acids, cigarette smoking, high consumption of caffeine or alcohol
Pancreatitis - this is when the digestive enzymes attack the pancreas. It can be caused by repeated stomach trauma (such as with vomiting), alcohol consumption or the excessive use of laxatives or diet pills.
Digestive Difficulties - a deficiency in digestive enzymes will lead to the bodies inability to properly digest food and absorb nutrients. This can lead to malabsorption problems, malnutrition and electrolyte imbalances. Diseases that may be triggered by a history of an Eating Disorder include: Celiac Disease (gluten sensitivity), and Crohn's Disease
Weakness and Fatigue - caused by generalized poor eating habits, electrolyte imbalances, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, depression, malnutrition, heart problems.
Seizures - the increased risk of seizures in Anorexic and Bulimic individuals may be caused by dehydration, hyperglycemia or ketoacidosis. It is also possible that lesions on the brain caused by long-term malnutrition and lack of oxygen-carrying cells to the brain may play a role. SOME type of antidepressants can increase the risk of seizure and usually carry a warning against prescribing them to people with Eating Disorders, unless the benefits significantly outweigh the risks.
Death caused by any of the following or any combination of the following: heart attack or heart failure; lung collapse; internal bleeding, stroke, kidney failure, liver failure; pancreatitis, gastric rupture, perforated ulcer, depression and suicide.
Facts from the site: http://www.something-fishy.org/dangers/dangers.php
Interesting Statistics
Statistics:
1 in 5 women struggle with an eating disorder or disordered eating.
National Institute of Mental Health's (NIMH) guide, Eating Disorders: Facts About Eating Disorders and the Search for Solutions
Eating Disorders affect up to 24 million Americans and 70 million individuals worldwide.
The Renfrew Center Foundation for Eating Disorders, Eating Disorders 101 Guide: A Summary of Issues, Statistics and Resources, published September 2002, revised October 2003, http://www.renfrew.org.
An estimated 10 to 15% of people with anorexia or bulimia are male.
Carlat, D.J. Camargo. Review of Bulimia in Males. American Journal of Psychiatry, 154, 1997
90 % of those who have eating disorders are women between the ages of 12 and 25.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, The Center for Mental Health Services, offices of the US Department of Health and Human Services.
At least 50,000 individuals will die as a direct result of an eating disorder.
It is estimated that currently 11% of high school students have been diagnosed with an eating disorder.
ANAD Ten Year Study. National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders. www.anad.org
15% of young women in the US who are not diagnosed with an eating disorder display substantially disordered eating attitudes and behaviors.
Girl Power!, a public education program of the US Department of Health and Human Services.
A Study conducted by Cornell University found that 40% of male football players surveyed engaged in some sort of disordered eating behavior. (Newsweek, 1994)
The most common behavior that will lead to an eating disorder is dieting.
Natalia Zunino, Ph.D, of American Anorexia and Bulimia Association, Inc.
The diet and diet related industry is a 50 billion dollar a year enterprise.
Garner, D.W., Wooley, S.C. (1991), "Confronting the failure of behavioral and dietary treatments for obesity." Clinical Psychology Review, 11, pp. 727-780.
35% of "normal dieters" progress to pathological dieting. Of those, 20-25% progress to partial or full syndrome eating disorders.
Shisslak, C.M., Crago, M., & Estes, L.S. (1995). The spectrum of eating disturbances. International Journal of Eating Disorders, 18 (3), 209-219.
According to a recent study, over 1/2 the females between the ages of 18-25 would prefer to be run over by a truck then be fat, and 2/3 surveyed would rather be mean or stupid.
Gaesser, G. (1996), Big Fat Lies: The Truth About Your Weight and Your Health. New York: Fawcett Columbine.
51% of 9 and 10 year-old girls feel better about themselves if they are on a diet
Mellin LM, Irwin CE & Scully S: Disordered eating characteristics in girls: A survey of middle class children. Journal of the American Dietetic Association. 1992; 92:851-53
42% of 1st-3rd grade girls want to be thinner (Collins, 1991).
Collins M.E. (1991) Body figure and preferences among pre-adolescent children. International Journal of Eating Disorders, 199-208.
46% of 9-11 year-olds are "sometimes" or "very often" on diets, and 82% of their families are "sometimes" or "very often" on diets (Gustafson-Larson & Terry, 1992).
Gustafson-Larson, A., & Terry, R.D. (1992). Weight-related behaviors and concerns of fourth-grade children. Journal of the American Dietetic Association, 92, 818-822.
81% of 10 year olds are afraid of being fat. 51% of 9 and 10 year old girls feel better about themselves if they are on a diet.
Mellin LM, Irwin CE & Scully S: Disordered eating characteristics in girls: A survey of middle class children. Journal of the American Dietetic Association. 1992; 92:851-53.
Time Magazine reports that 80% of all children have been on a diet by the time that they have reached the fourth grade.
2 out of 5 women and 1 out of 5 men would trade 3 to 5 years of their life to achieve their goal body weight. (Rader Programs)
91 % of women surveyed on a college campus had attempted to control their weight through dieting, 22% dieted "often" or "always".
Kurth CL, Krahn DD, Nairn K & Drewnowski A: The severity of dieting and bingeing behaviors in college women: Interview validation of survey data. Journal of Psychiatric Research. 1995; 29(3):211-25.
The average woman is 5'4" and weighs 140 pounds. The average model is 5'11" and weighs 117 pounds. Most fashion models are thinner than 98% of American women.
Smolak L. (1996). National Eating Disorders Association/Next Door Neighbors puppet guide book.
If today's mannequins were actual human women, based on theoretical body fat percentages, they would probably cease to menstruate.
Rader Programs. www.raderprograms.com.
Anorexia is the 3rd most common chronic illness among adolescents.
Public Health Service's Office in Women's Health, Eating Disorder Information Sheet, 2000.
A young woman with anorexia is 12 times more likely to die than other women her age without anorexia.
Mortality in Anorexia Nervosa. American Journal of Psychiatry, 152(7), 1073-1074.
Five to ten percent of anorexics die within ten years of onset, 18-20 percent die within twenty years of onset, and only 50 percent report ever being cured.
American Psychiatric Association (1993), "Practice Guidelines for Eating Disorders." American Journal of Psychiatry, 150 (2), pp 212-228.
20% of people suffering from anorexia will prematurely die from complications related to their eating disorder, including suicide and heart problems.
The Renfrew Center Foundation for Eating Disorders, "Eating Disorders 101 Guide: A Summary of Issues, Statistics and Resources," published September 2002, revised October 2003, www.renfrew.org.
0.5 % - 3.7 % of females suffer from Anorexia Nervosa in their lifetime.
National Institute of Mental Health. Eating Disorders NIH Publication No. 94-3477 Rockville, MD, 1994
1.1 % - 4.2 % of females suffer from Bulimia Nervosa in their lifetime.
National Institute of Mental Health. Eating Disorders NIH Publication No. 94-3477 Rockville, MD, 1994
Up to 19% of college aged women in America are bulimic.
Rader Programs. www.raderprograms.com.
Bulimia often occurs in athletes such as gymnasts, wrestlers, dancers, horse jockeys, football players, and runners.
2% - 5 % of the American population experience Binge Eating Disorder. National Institute of Mental Health. Eating Disorders NIH Publication No. 94-3477 Rockville, MD, 1994
Men constitute 40% of those exhibiting Binge Eating Disorder.
American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic & Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fourth Ed. (DSM-IV). Washington DC, 1994.
The onset of Binge Eating Disorder usually occurs during the late adolescence or in the early twenties.
American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic & Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fourth Ed. (DSM-IV). Washington DC, 1994.
1 in 5 women struggle with an eating disorder or disordered eating.
National Institute of Mental Health's (NIMH) guide, Eating Disorders: Facts About Eating Disorders and the Search for Solutions
Eating Disorders affect up to 24 million Americans and 70 million individuals worldwide.
The Renfrew Center Foundation for Eating Disorders, Eating Disorders 101 Guide: A Summary of Issues, Statistics and Resources, published September 2002, revised October 2003, http://www.renfrew.org.
An estimated 10 to 15% of people with anorexia or bulimia are male.
Carlat, D.J. Camargo. Review of Bulimia in Males. American Journal of Psychiatry, 154, 1997
90 % of those who have eating disorders are women between the ages of 12 and 25.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, The Center for Mental Health Services, offices of the US Department of Health and Human Services.
At least 50,000 individuals will die as a direct result of an eating disorder.
It is estimated that currently 11% of high school students have been diagnosed with an eating disorder.
ANAD Ten Year Study. National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders. www.anad.org
15% of young women in the US who are not diagnosed with an eating disorder display substantially disordered eating attitudes and behaviors.
Girl Power!, a public education program of the US Department of Health and Human Services.
A Study conducted by Cornell University found that 40% of male football players surveyed engaged in some sort of disordered eating behavior. (Newsweek, 1994)
The most common behavior that will lead to an eating disorder is dieting.
Natalia Zunino, Ph.D, of American Anorexia and Bulimia Association, Inc.
The diet and diet related industry is a 50 billion dollar a year enterprise.
Garner, D.W., Wooley, S.C. (1991), "Confronting the failure of behavioral and dietary treatments for obesity." Clinical Psychology Review, 11, pp. 727-780.
35% of "normal dieters" progress to pathological dieting. Of those, 20-25% progress to partial or full syndrome eating disorders.
Shisslak, C.M., Crago, M., & Estes, L.S. (1995). The spectrum of eating disturbances. International Journal of Eating Disorders, 18 (3), 209-219.
According to a recent study, over 1/2 the females between the ages of 18-25 would prefer to be run over by a truck then be fat, and 2/3 surveyed would rather be mean or stupid.
Gaesser, G. (1996), Big Fat Lies: The Truth About Your Weight and Your Health. New York: Fawcett Columbine.
51% of 9 and 10 year-old girls feel better about themselves if they are on a diet
Mellin LM, Irwin CE & Scully S: Disordered eating characteristics in girls: A survey of middle class children. Journal of the American Dietetic Association. 1992; 92:851-53
42% of 1st-3rd grade girls want to be thinner (Collins, 1991).
Collins M.E. (1991) Body figure and preferences among pre-adolescent children. International Journal of Eating Disorders, 199-208.
46% of 9-11 year-olds are "sometimes" or "very often" on diets, and 82% of their families are "sometimes" or "very often" on diets (Gustafson-Larson & Terry, 1992).
Gustafson-Larson, A., & Terry, R.D. (1992). Weight-related behaviors and concerns of fourth-grade children. Journal of the American Dietetic Association, 92, 818-822.
81% of 10 year olds are afraid of being fat. 51% of 9 and 10 year old girls feel better about themselves if they are on a diet.
Mellin LM, Irwin CE & Scully S: Disordered eating characteristics in girls: A survey of middle class children. Journal of the American Dietetic Association. 1992; 92:851-53.
Time Magazine reports that 80% of all children have been on a diet by the time that they have reached the fourth grade.
2 out of 5 women and 1 out of 5 men would trade 3 to 5 years of their life to achieve their goal body weight. (Rader Programs)
91 % of women surveyed on a college campus had attempted to control their weight through dieting, 22% dieted "often" or "always".
Kurth CL, Krahn DD, Nairn K & Drewnowski A: The severity of dieting and bingeing behaviors in college women: Interview validation of survey data. Journal of Psychiatric Research. 1995; 29(3):211-25.
The average woman is 5'4" and weighs 140 pounds. The average model is 5'11" and weighs 117 pounds. Most fashion models are thinner than 98% of American women.
Smolak L. (1996). National Eating Disorders Association/Next Door Neighbors puppet guide book.
If today's mannequins were actual human women, based on theoretical body fat percentages, they would probably cease to menstruate.
Rader Programs. www.raderprograms.com.
Anorexia is the 3rd most common chronic illness among adolescents.
Public Health Service's Office in Women's Health, Eating Disorder Information Sheet, 2000.
A young woman with anorexia is 12 times more likely to die than other women her age without anorexia.
Mortality in Anorexia Nervosa. American Journal of Psychiatry, 152(7), 1073-1074.
Five to ten percent of anorexics die within ten years of onset, 18-20 percent die within twenty years of onset, and only 50 percent report ever being cured.
American Psychiatric Association (1993), "Practice Guidelines for Eating Disorders." American Journal of Psychiatry, 150 (2), pp 212-228.
20% of people suffering from anorexia will prematurely die from complications related to their eating disorder, including suicide and heart problems.
The Renfrew Center Foundation for Eating Disorders, "Eating Disorders 101 Guide: A Summary of Issues, Statistics and Resources," published September 2002, revised October 2003, www.renfrew.org.
0.5 % - 3.7 % of females suffer from Anorexia Nervosa in their lifetime.
National Institute of Mental Health. Eating Disorders NIH Publication No. 94-3477 Rockville, MD, 1994
1.1 % - 4.2 % of females suffer from Bulimia Nervosa in their lifetime.
National Institute of Mental Health. Eating Disorders NIH Publication No. 94-3477 Rockville, MD, 1994
Up to 19% of college aged women in America are bulimic.
Rader Programs. www.raderprograms.com.
Bulimia often occurs in athletes such as gymnasts, wrestlers, dancers, horse jockeys, football players, and runners.
2% - 5 % of the American population experience Binge Eating Disorder. National Institute of Mental Health. Eating Disorders NIH Publication No. 94-3477 Rockville, MD, 1994
Men constitute 40% of those exhibiting Binge Eating Disorder.
American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic & Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fourth Ed. (DSM-IV). Washington DC, 1994.
The onset of Binge Eating Disorder usually occurs during the late adolescence or in the early twenties.
American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic & Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fourth Ed. (DSM-IV). Washington DC, 1994.
Possible causes of the disorders
Many people view eating disorders as self-destructive acts however most individuals who develop eating disorders do not usually perceive their behaviors as self-harmful. Actually, most feel that they began the behaviors to try to fix other problems. The most common reason therapists hear from people about why they began self-starvation, bingeing or purging is that at some point they felt terribly out of control -- whether because of something they were feeling inside themselves or something that was happening to them from their outside environment.
Below are some of the most common causes of eating disorders:
Major life transitions. Many patients with eating disorders have difficulty with change. Anorexics, in particular, typically prefer that things are predictable, orderly and familiar. Consequently, transitions such as the onset of puberty, entering high school or college, or major illness or death of someone close to them can overwhelm these individuals and cause them to feel a loss of control.
Family patterns and problems. The National Eating Disorders Association cites troubled family relationships as a possible contributing factor to eating disorders. Some, but not all individuals with eating disorders, come from disordered families.
Social problems. Most people who develop eating disorders report having painfully low self-esteem before the onset of their eating problems. Many patients describe going through a painful experience such as being teased about their appearance, being shunned, or going through a difficult break-up of a romantic relationship.
Failure at school, work or competitive events. Eating disorder patients can be perfectionists with very high achievement expectations. If their self-esteem is disproportionately tied to success, then any failure can produce devastating feelings of shame, guilt or self-worthlessness.
A traumatic event. Evidence continues to accumulate that between one- third and two-thirds of patients who go to treatment centers for eating disorders have histories of sexual or physical abuse.
Major illness or injury can also result in an individual feeling extremely vulnerable or out of control. Anorexia and bulimia can be attempts to control or distract themselves from such trauma.
Other psychiatric illnesses. Researchers have found that some people develop eating disorders in response to other psychiatric symptoms that occurred first.
Between one-third and one-half of patients report having struggled with significant depression or anxiety before their eating disorder began.
Excessive exercise, and/or binge-purge behavior to contain or manage the depression and anxiety.
Johnson, Craig. "The Many Causes of Eating Disorders". Healthy Place. March 11, 2010
Below are some of the most common causes of eating disorders:
Major life transitions. Many patients with eating disorders have difficulty with change. Anorexics, in particular, typically prefer that things are predictable, orderly and familiar. Consequently, transitions such as the onset of puberty, entering high school or college, or major illness or death of someone close to them can overwhelm these individuals and cause them to feel a loss of control.
Family patterns and problems. The National Eating Disorders Association cites troubled family relationships as a possible contributing factor to eating disorders. Some, but not all individuals with eating disorders, come from disordered families.
Social problems. Most people who develop eating disorders report having painfully low self-esteem before the onset of their eating problems. Many patients describe going through a painful experience such as being teased about their appearance, being shunned, or going through a difficult break-up of a romantic relationship.
Failure at school, work or competitive events. Eating disorder patients can be perfectionists with very high achievement expectations. If their self-esteem is disproportionately tied to success, then any failure can produce devastating feelings of shame, guilt or self-worthlessness.
A traumatic event. Evidence continues to accumulate that between one- third and two-thirds of patients who go to treatment centers for eating disorders have histories of sexual or physical abuse.
Major illness or injury can also result in an individual feeling extremely vulnerable or out of control. Anorexia and bulimia can be attempts to control or distract themselves from such trauma.
Other psychiatric illnesses. Researchers have found that some people develop eating disorders in response to other psychiatric symptoms that occurred first.
Between one-third and one-half of patients report having struggled with significant depression or anxiety before their eating disorder began.
Excessive exercise, and/or binge-purge behavior to contain or manage the depression and anxiety.
Johnson, Craig. "The Many Causes of Eating Disorders". Healthy Place. March 11, 2010
Warning Signs of the disorders
Common eating disorder warning signs
• Preoccupation with body or weight
• Obsession with calories, food, or nutrition
• Constant dieting, even when thin
• Rapid, unexplained weight loss or weight gain
• Taking laxatives or diet pills
• Compulsive exercising
• Making excuses to get out of eating
• Avoiding social situations that involve food
• Going to the bathroom right after meals
• Eating alone, at night, or in secret
• Hoarding high-calorie food
Signs of the disorder
Many people worry about their weight, what they eat, and how they look. This is especially true for teenagers and young adults, who face extra pressure to fit in and look attractive at a time when their bodies are changing.
In the early stages, it can be challenging to tell the difference between an eating disorder and normal self-consciousness, weight concerns, or dieting. As eating disorders progress, the red flags become easier to spot. But a person with an eating disorder will often go to great lengths to hide the problem, so it’s important to know the warning signs.
Restricting food or dieting
The most obvious warning signs of eating disorders involve restrictive eating behaviors. A friend or family member with an eating disorder may frequently skip meals or make excuses to avoid eating—he or she had a big meal earlier, isn’t hungry, or has an upset stomach. The person may also claim to be disgusted by foods that used to be favorites.
When your loved one does eat, he or she may take tiny servings, eat only specific low-calorie foods, or obsessively count calories, read food labels, and weigh portions. In an effort to curb appetite, your friend or family member may also take diet pills, prescription stimulants like Adderall or Ritalin, or even illegal drugs such as speed.
Bingeing
Some people with eating disorders eat normally around others, only to binge in secret—usually late at night or in a private spot where they won’t be discovered or disturbed. Warning signs of bingeing include piles of empty food packages and wrappers, cupboards and refrigerators that have been cleaned out, and hidden stashes of high-calorie foods such as desserts and junk food.
Purging
People with eating disorders often go to extreme measures to work off calories from a binge or even a normal snack or meal. They may purge by throwing up, fasting, exercising vigorously, or using diuretics and laxatives.
Common warning signs of purging include disappearing right after a meal or making frequent trips to the bathroom. If your friend or family member is vomiting, he or she may run the water to muffle the sound and use mouthwash, breath mints, or perfume to disguise the smell.
Distorted body image and altered appearance
A loved one’s appearance can also offer clues to an underlying problem. Significant weight loss, rapid weight gain, and constantly fluctuating weight are all possible warning signs. A person with an eating disorder may also wear baggy clothes or multiple layers in an attempt to hide dramatic weight loss.
Other warning signs include a distorted self-image or an obsessive preoccupation with weight. A relative complains about being fat despite a dramatically shrinking frame, for example, or a friend spends hours in front of the mirror, inspecting and criticizing her body.
• Preoccupation with body or weight
• Obsession with calories, food, or nutrition
• Constant dieting, even when thin
• Rapid, unexplained weight loss or weight gain
• Taking laxatives or diet pills
• Compulsive exercising
• Making excuses to get out of eating
• Avoiding social situations that involve food
• Going to the bathroom right after meals
• Eating alone, at night, or in secret
• Hoarding high-calorie food
Signs of the disorder
Many people worry about their weight, what they eat, and how they look. This is especially true for teenagers and young adults, who face extra pressure to fit in and look attractive at a time when their bodies are changing.
In the early stages, it can be challenging to tell the difference between an eating disorder and normal self-consciousness, weight concerns, or dieting. As eating disorders progress, the red flags become easier to spot. But a person with an eating disorder will often go to great lengths to hide the problem, so it’s important to know the warning signs.
Restricting food or dieting
The most obvious warning signs of eating disorders involve restrictive eating behaviors. A friend or family member with an eating disorder may frequently skip meals or make excuses to avoid eating—he or she had a big meal earlier, isn’t hungry, or has an upset stomach. The person may also claim to be disgusted by foods that used to be favorites.
When your loved one does eat, he or she may take tiny servings, eat only specific low-calorie foods, or obsessively count calories, read food labels, and weigh portions. In an effort to curb appetite, your friend or family member may also take diet pills, prescription stimulants like Adderall or Ritalin, or even illegal drugs such as speed.
Bingeing
Some people with eating disorders eat normally around others, only to binge in secret—usually late at night or in a private spot where they won’t be discovered or disturbed. Warning signs of bingeing include piles of empty food packages and wrappers, cupboards and refrigerators that have been cleaned out, and hidden stashes of high-calorie foods such as desserts and junk food.
Purging
People with eating disorders often go to extreme measures to work off calories from a binge or even a normal snack or meal. They may purge by throwing up, fasting, exercising vigorously, or using diuretics and laxatives.
Common warning signs of purging include disappearing right after a meal or making frequent trips to the bathroom. If your friend or family member is vomiting, he or she may run the water to muffle the sound and use mouthwash, breath mints, or perfume to disguise the smell.
Distorted body image and altered appearance
A loved one’s appearance can also offer clues to an underlying problem. Significant weight loss, rapid weight gain, and constantly fluctuating weight are all possible warning signs. A person with an eating disorder may also wear baggy clothes or multiple layers in an attempt to hide dramatic weight loss.
Other warning signs include a distorted self-image or an obsessive preoccupation with weight. A relative complains about being fat despite a dramatically shrinking frame, for example, or a friend spends hours in front of the mirror, inspecting and criticizing her body.
Shocking Statistics
Shocking Statistics
Two out of five women and one out of five men would trade three to five years of their life to achieve their weight goals.
In 1970 the average age of a girl who started dieting was 14; by 1990 the average dieting age fell to 8.
A study found that women overestimate the size of their hips by 16% and their waists by 25%, yet the same women were able to correctly estimate the width of a box.
After viewing images of female fashion models, seven out of ten women felt more depressed and angry than prior to viewing the images.
The “ideal” woman - portrayed by models, Miss America, Barbie dolls, and screen actresses - is 5’5, weighs 100 pounds and wears a size 5.
Young girls are more afraid of becoming fat than they are of nuclear war, cancer, or losing their parents.
One out of three women and one out of four men are on a diet at any given time. Two thirds of dieters regain the weight within one year and virtually all regain it within five years.
35% of occasional dieters progress into pathological dieting.
The diet industry (diet foods, diet programs, diet drugs, etc.) takes in over $40 billion each year and continues to grow.
30% of women chose an ideal body shape that is 20% underweight and an additional 44% chose an ideal body shape that is 10% underweight.
The average U.S. woman is 5’4” and weighs 140 pounds whereas the average U.S. model is 5’11” and weighs 117 pounds.
"Student Wellness". University of Colorado at Boulder. March 3, 2010.
Two out of five women and one out of five men would trade three to five years of their life to achieve their weight goals.
In 1970 the average age of a girl who started dieting was 14; by 1990 the average dieting age fell to 8.
A study found that women overestimate the size of their hips by 16% and their waists by 25%, yet the same women were able to correctly estimate the width of a box.
After viewing images of female fashion models, seven out of ten women felt more depressed and angry than prior to viewing the images.
The “ideal” woman - portrayed by models, Miss America, Barbie dolls, and screen actresses - is 5’5, weighs 100 pounds and wears a size 5.
Young girls are more afraid of becoming fat than they are of nuclear war, cancer, or losing their parents.
One out of three women and one out of four men are on a diet at any given time. Two thirds of dieters regain the weight within one year and virtually all regain it within five years.
35% of occasional dieters progress into pathological dieting.
The diet industry (diet foods, diet programs, diet drugs, etc.) takes in over $40 billion each year and continues to grow.
30% of women chose an ideal body shape that is 20% underweight and an additional 44% chose an ideal body shape that is 10% underweight.
The average U.S. woman is 5’4” and weighs 140 pounds whereas the average U.S. model is 5’11” and weighs 117 pounds.
"Student Wellness". University of Colorado at Boulder. March 3, 2010
Eating Disorders Defined
Types of Eating Disorders:
The most common eating disorders are anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder.
• Anorexia – People with anorexia starve themselves out of an intense fear of becoming fat. Despite being underweight or even emaciated, they never believe they’re thin enough. In addition to restricting calories, people with anorexia may also control their weight with exercise, diet pills, or purging.
• Bulimia – Bulimia involves a destructive cycle of bingeing and purging. Following an episode of out-of-control binge eating, people with bulimia take drastic steps to purge themselves of the extra calories. In order to avoid weight gain they vomit, exercise, fast, or take laxatives.
• Binge Eating Disorder – People with binge eating disorder compulsively overeat, rapidly consuming thousands of calories in a short period of time. Despite feelings of guilt and shame over these secret binges, they feel unable to control their behavior or stop eating
The most common eating disorders are anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder.
• Anorexia – People with anorexia starve themselves out of an intense fear of becoming fat. Despite being underweight or even emaciated, they never believe they’re thin enough. In addition to restricting calories, people with anorexia may also control their weight with exercise, diet pills, or purging.
• Bulimia – Bulimia involves a destructive cycle of bingeing and purging. Following an episode of out-of-control binge eating, people with bulimia take drastic steps to purge themselves of the extra calories. In order to avoid weight gain they vomit, exercise, fast, or take laxatives.
• Binge Eating Disorder – People with binge eating disorder compulsively overeat, rapidly consuming thousands of calories in a short period of time. Despite feelings of guilt and shame over these secret binges, they feel unable to control their behavior or stop eating
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