Information on Eating Disorders

What Are Eating Disorders?

An eating disorder is an obsession with food and controlling its effects on the body. It may stem from emotional trauma, abuse, an unhealthy body image, or low self-esteem. The person suffering from an eating disorder usually denies that there is a problem, which can delay needed treatment. The "big three" eating disorders are anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder (sometimes called compulsive overeating). There are other, less common eating disorders, usually lumped together under the diagnosis "eating disorders not otherwise specified" or EDNOS. EDNOS disorders may include chronic dieters, anorexics who still menstruate, people who abuse laxatives or diuretics but who do not binge, people who chew and spit out food (rather than gobbling it down and then vomiting), and other disordered eating behaviours.

Not a "Girl Problem"

While the stereotypical image of a person with an eating disorder is one of an emaciated female, the truth is that eating disorders do affect men. Men now make up about ten percent of all diagnosed eating disorders, and that number seems to be increasing. Certain professions seem to trigger eating disorders because they necessitate a certain body size; gymnasts, runners, jockeys, dancers, and swimmers are among those who may develop career-related eating disorders. Some experts believe that the increasing media emphasis on lean, muscular, "perfect" men may be causing the increase in male eating disorders.

Organizations That Provide Information on Eating Disorders

There are many places to go if you or someone you know need information on eating disorders. Great places to start gathering information include:

• The American Dietetic Association can refer you to eating disorder specialists in your area.
• ANRED (Anorexia Nervosa and Related Eating Disorders) is a clearinghouse for information on eating disorders.
• NWHIC (National Women's Health Information Center) is both a clearinghouse and a referral service.
• ANAD (The National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders) offers a panoply of services for those who need information or help with eating disorders.
• The American Anorexia/Bulimia Association offers information and assistance to victims.
• Overeaters Anonymous offers help specifically to those struggling with binge-eating disorder.
• NEDA (National Eating Disorders Association), the largest prevention and advocacy group in the world, offers outreach and training, as well as a prevention curriculum.

A Few Helpful Books

• The Eating Disorder Sourcebook, by Carolyn Costin
• Eating Disorders (Contemporary Issues Companion), edited by Shasta Gaughen
• Talking Points: Eating Disorders, by Jenny Bryan -- an excellent resource for opening lines of communication with your child

Related Diet Links

• Eating Disorder Treatments
• Healthy Eating Habits
• Eating Disorders: Anorexia
• Eating Disorders: Bulimia
• Eating Disorders: Binging