There are several kinds of eating disorders whose symptoms differ depending on the illness. It should be understood that there are no pre-set age groups affecting by eating disorders but that help can be sought for all ages and all disorders.
Compulsive eating occurs when there is no control over the quantity or the occasion that food is consumed. This type of eating is often followed by feelings of guilt and shame. Compulsive eaters may use laxatives or exercising afterwards in an attempt to offset their eating. Compulsive eaters may also eat in secret to avoid criticism from those around them.
Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by an unhealthy preoccupation with losing weight and being thin. Those who suffer from anorexia nervosa have an acute fear of being fat and may resort to vomiting to purge food out of their stomach to avoid gaining weight. Those suffering from this disorder perceive themselves as larger than actual size and often deny being hungry even when starving. Left untreated, Anorexia nervosa can cause hair loss, dry skin and poor circulation in hands and feet.
Closely related to Anorexia nervosa is Bulimia. Bulimia is an eating disorder where there is a tendency to consume large amounts of food quickly and subsequently attempt to purge by regurgitating the food before it is digested into the system. Bulimia can also cause mood swings and depression.
Young females and males who are pre-adolescent to young adult make up the greatest number of individuals who suffer from eating disorders. Often, peer pressure and celebrity idols help to form the mis-impression that being beautiful or socially acceptable is linked to being extremely thin.
It is important to recognize if your child has an eating disorder. But it is even more important to seek help for the disorder. In the early stages, encourage healthy eating habits by providing calorie-conscious meal choices that have nutritional content and are wholesome and satisfying. Try to avoid foods and beverages with refined sugar, saturated fat and caffeine. Maintain an awareness of what your child views on television and be sure to explain and reinforce the difference between healthy and unhealthy weight losses and gains. Encourage moderation in all things.
If you suspect that your child is suffering from an eating disorder, try talking to them. There may be other factors such as stress, depression or peer pressure aiding their eating disorder. One thing you should not do, however, is attempt to monitor their food intake as this will create a feeling of distrust. Instead, seek professional advice. Many times, a few counseling sessions may be enough to offset eating disorders caught in the early stages. More advanced eating disorders may require more counseling and possibly other forms of treatment to help restore healthy eating habits.
Whatever the eating disorder may be, understand that you are not alone and seek out resources and support groups who are experienced in helping you cope and have members who are going through the same thing.
