Eating Disorders: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Symptoms of Anorexia
Describes the major physical, mental, and behavioral symptoms of anorexia. Symptoms of anorexia range from the benign (like hair growth) to the dangerous (like bone loss) to the frightening (like potentially extreme weight loss).
Describes the major physical, mental, and behavioral symptoms of anorexia. Symptoms of anorexia range from the benign (like hair growth) to the dangerous (like bone loss) to the frightening (like potentially extreme weight loss).
Anorexia Statistics
Presents statistics on anorexia nervosa, from prevalence to onset to mortality rates.
Presents statistics on anorexia nervosa, from prevalence to onset to mortality rates.
EAT-26 Eating Disorders Test
Take an eating disorder test to evaluate whether you are at risk for an diagnosis of anorexia, bulimia, or another eating disorder. This screening is one of the most widely used tools for evaluation of eating disorder symptoms.
Take an eating disorder test to evaluate whether you are at risk for an diagnosis of anorexia, bulimia, or another eating disorder. This screening is one of the most widely used tools for evaluation of eating disorder symptoms.
The Media and Eating Disorders
The media influence the development of eating disorders through advertising and news reporting. But we (and the media) can develop greater awareness and take action to promote positive body image rather than unrealistic goals that require disordered eating.
The media influence the development of eating disorders through advertising and news reporting. But we (and the media) can develop greater awareness and take action to promote positive body image rather than unrealistic goals that require disordered eating.
Body Dysmorphic Disorder
Learn about a disorder that is similar to eating disorders but isn't one. Body dysmorphic disorder, a preoccupation with a perceived defect of a body part, can create debilitating stress.
Learn about a disorder that is similar to eating disorders but isn't one. Body dysmorphic disorder, a preoccupation with a perceived defect of a body part, can create debilitating stress.
Bulimia and Medical Problems
The medical problems associated with bulimia nervosa are dangerous and involve more than the digestive system.
The medical problems associated with bulimia nervosa are dangerous and involve more than the digestive system.
Barbie and Body Image
What effect does Barbie have on body image? And if there's an effect on body image, won't there be an increase in eating disorders? Body image can be fragile for young girls, and Barbie remains extremely popular over fifty years after she was introduced.
What effect does Barbie have on body image? And if there's an effect on body image, won't there be an increase in eating disorders? Body image can be fragile for young girls, and Barbie remains extremely popular over fifty years after she was introduced.
Eating Disorders and Health
All eating disorders create health problems. In some cases, health problems associated with eating disorders are dangerous and even life-threatening.
All eating disorders create health problems. In some cases, health problems associated with eating disorders are dangerous and even life-threatening.
Major Features of Anorexia
Anorexia nervosa is a powerful eating disorder with serious consequences. This resource describes the major features of anorexia nervosa, including statistics, diagnostic criteria, symptoms, risk factors, treatment options, and many other topics.
Anorexia nervosa is a powerful eating disorder with serious consequences. This resource describes the major features of anorexia nervosa, including statistics, diagnostic criteria, symptoms, risk factors, treatment options, and many other topics.
Anorexia and Medical Problems
The medical problems associated with anorexia nervosa are many, and a number of them are life-threatening.
The medical problems associated with anorexia nervosa are many, and a number of them are life-threatening.
SCOFF Eating Disorder Quiz - Take the SCOFF Eating Disorder Quiz
The SCOFF eating disorder quiz is quick, easy to score, and a good indicator of the need to see an eating disorder professional.
The SCOFF eating disorder quiz is quick, easy to score, and a good indicator of the need to see an eating disorder professional.
Find an ED Support Group
Find an eating disorder support group in your area. Whether you struggle with anorexia, bulimia, binge-eating disorder or related problems, an eating disorder support group can be a huge part of recovery.
Find an eating disorder support group in your area. Whether you struggle with anorexia, bulimia, binge-eating disorder or related problems, an eating disorder support group can be a huge part of recovery.
What Causes Eating Disorders?
The actual causes of eating disorders are elusive, but we do know many factors that contribute to eating disorder development.
The actual causes of eating disorders are elusive, but we do know many factors that contribute to eating disorder development.
Physical Symptoms of Bulimia
Bulimia nervosa affects the body in a number of ways. Learn the physical problems that can occur through binging, purging, and excessive laxative use.
Bulimia nervosa affects the body in a number of ways. Learn the physical problems that can occur through binging, purging, and excessive laxative use.
Set Point Theory
Definition of set point theory from an eating disorders perspective.
Definition of set point theory from an eating disorders perspective.
Eating Disorder Statistics
Eating disorder statistics are helpful, and they can be even more helpful when paired with investigations of why the statistics show what they do.
Eating disorder statistics are helpful, and they can be even more helpful when paired with investigations of why the statistics show what they do.
Anorexia and Sex
Anorexia makes sex very challenging for a number of psychological reasons. Like food, sex is perceived as a threat to the mind and body.
Anorexia makes sex very challenging for a number of psychological reasons. Like food, sex is perceived as a threat to the mind and body.
Psychology of Anorexia
A look at the psychology of anorexia reveals an internal battle between shame and pride. Examine quotes from people with anorexia and what they reveal about this battle.
A look at the psychology of anorexia reveals an internal battle between shame and pride. Examine quotes from people with anorexia and what they reveal about this battle.
Purging Disorder
Is purging disorder just a milder version of bulimia nervosa, or is it unique? Either way, purging disorder does have the symptoms of bulimia related to purging.
Is purging disorder just a milder version of bulimia nervosa, or is it unique? Either way, purging disorder does have the symptoms of bulimia related to purging.
Pica: Eating What Isn't Food
A person who has pica will eat non-food substances, possibly including dirt, paint, or string. Learn causes, risks, and treatment options for pica.
A person who has pica will eat non-food substances, possibly including dirt, paint, or string. Learn causes, risks, and treatment options for pica.
What Is Anorexia?
Learn the definition of anorexia nervosa--the criteria for diagnosis from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders.
Learn the definition of anorexia nervosa--the criteria for diagnosis from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders.
Bulimia Statistics
The relevant statistics on bulimia nervosa, from onset ages to prevalence rates to normal length of recovery time.
The relevant statistics on bulimia nervosa, from onset ages to prevalence rates to normal length of recovery time.
Bulimia Unmasked
Bulimia nervosa involves the elimination of food by vomiting or some other method. But that's far from all: Bulimia's reach is long, and it's a problem that's persistent once it takes hold. Check out information on diagnosis, symptoms, behavioral changes, finding treatment, and much more.
Bulimia nervosa involves the elimination of food by vomiting or some other method. But that's far from all: Bulimia's reach is long, and it's a problem that's persistent once it takes hold. Check out information on diagnosis, symptoms, behavioral changes, finding treatment, and much more.
What Are Eating Disorders?
Eating disorders are both psychological and physical in nature. An eating disorder is a pattern of eating that is particularly harmful to the body and mind. Eating disorders are often fueled by fear of being or becoming overweight.
Eating disorders are both psychological and physical in nature. An eating disorder is a pattern of eating that is particularly harmful to the body and mind. Eating disorders are often fueled by fear of being or becoming overweight.
Life with Bulimia
A description of how the lifestyle of a person who struggles with bulimia nervosa might look.
A description of how the lifestyle of a person who struggles with bulimia nervosa might look.
Anorexia and Control
Anorexia and control go hand in hand. People with anorexia have a high need for control in their food intake and other parts of their lives. But the question is whether those with anorexia are in control or anorexia is in control of those who struggle with it.
Anorexia and control go hand in hand. People with anorexia have a high need for control in their food intake and other parts of their lives. But the question is whether those with anorexia are in control or anorexia is in control of those who struggle with it.
Eating Disorder Family Trends
Family dynamics can be quite varied in the presence of eating disorders. Many family types create dynamics that can pave the way for an eating disorder to form. Parents can have a profound impact on their children, pushing them toward or away from eating disorders.
Family dynamics can be quite varied in the presence of eating disorders. Many family types create dynamics that can pave the way for an eating disorder to form. Parents can have a profound impact on their children, pushing them toward or away from eating disorders.
Weight Gain in Anorexia
For those with anorexia, gaining weight is a frightening process. Knowing what to expect in the weight-gain portion of recovery from anorexia can be reassuring.
For those with anorexia, gaining weight is a frightening process. Knowing what to expect in the weight-gain portion of recovery from anorexia can be reassuring.
Thin Model Ban Timeline
Fashion shows and corporations are banning models and actors who are too thin. See how the issue has progressed after the Madrid fashion show became the first entity to ban models who are too thin from working.
Fashion shows and corporations are banning models and actors who are too thin. See how the issue has progressed after the Madrid fashion show became the first entity to ban models who are too thin from working.
Orthorexia Nervosa
Is orthorexia nervosa an eating disorder? Is it an anxiety disorder? Orthorexia is said to be present when a person has an unhealthy obsession with eating healthy food.
Is orthorexia nervosa an eating disorder? Is it an anxiety disorder? Orthorexia is said to be present when a person has an unhealthy obsession with eating healthy food.
Eating Disorders and Stress
A common theory of the psychology of eating disorders is that they help to relieve stress (despite the stress they cause). How do eating disorders accomplish this while harming those who seek relief?
A common theory of the psychology of eating disorders is that they help to relieve stress (despite the stress they cause). How do eating disorders accomplish this while harming those who seek relief?
Refeeding Syndrome in Anorexia
Refeeding syndrome is a significant problem in recovery from anorexia nervosa. When a clinical team is not alert, refeeding syndrome can endanger the lives of patients.
Refeeding syndrome is a significant problem in recovery from anorexia nervosa. When a clinical team is not alert, refeeding syndrome can endanger the lives of patients.
The Maudsley Treatment Method
The Maudsley method is a relatively new approach to family treatment of anorexia in adolescents. Avoiding the placement of blame, the Maudsley method focuses on dealing with the disorder in a family context.
The Maudsley method is a relatively new approach to family treatment of anorexia in adolescents. Avoiding the placement of blame, the Maudsley method focuses on dealing with the disorder in a family context.
Eating Disorders and OCD
Obsessions and compulsions drive those with eating disorders and those with obsessive-compulsive disorder. While the link between eating disorders and OCD is strong, it has subtle nuances.
Obsessions and compulsions drive those with eating disorders and those with obsessive-compulsive disorder. While the link between eating disorders and OCD is strong, it has subtle nuances.
Challenges to Male Body Image
It appears that male body image is susceptible to damage from outside sources, just as female body image is. The difference is in how men respond to chinks in their body image.
It appears that male body image is susceptible to damage from outside sources, just as female body image is. The difference is in how men respond to chinks in their body image.
Eating Disorders and Women
What causes women to be at higher risk for eating disorders? Women with anorexia outnumber men at least ten to one, and bulimia is four times more common in females than males. Does the predominance of eating disorders in women represent a cultural issue or something more?
What causes women to be at higher risk for eating disorders? Women with anorexia outnumber men at least ten to one, and bulimia is four times more common in females than males. Does the predominance of eating disorders in women represent a cultural issue or something more?
Jockeys and Making Weight
Who pays attention to the health of horse racing's jockeys? Jockey weights remain painfully low; the requirements have essentially been frozen for decades.
Who pays attention to the health of horse racing's jockeys? Jockey weights remain painfully low; the requirements have essentially been frozen for decades.
Eating Disorder Triggers
A look at specific verbal and emotional events that trigger eating disorders. Provides information on sexual abuse and other traumatic triggers for anorexia, bulimia, and other eating disorders.
A look at specific verbal and emotional events that trigger eating disorders. Provides information on sexual abuse and other traumatic triggers for anorexia, bulimia, and other eating disorders.
Symptoms of Bulimia
Describes the major physical, mental, and behavioral symptoms of bulimia. Symptoms of bulimia often occur behind the scenes because those who struggle with it do not have the obvious physical symptoms of other eating disorders.
Describes the major physical, mental, and behavioral symptoms of bulimia. Symptoms of bulimia often occur behind the scenes because those who struggle with it do not have the obvious physical symptoms of other eating disorders.
Eating Disorder Treatment
The first step in overcoming an eating disorder is getting treatment. Eating disorder treatment comes in many forms, and most require multiple kinds of treatment to overcome their eating disorders.
The first step in overcoming an eating disorder is getting treatment. Eating disorder treatment comes in many forms, and most require multiple kinds of treatment to overcome their eating disorders.
Eating Disorders in Men
Eating disorders in men are more common than we might think. But the ways in which eating disorders play out in men are unique.
Eating disorders in men are more common than we might think. But the ways in which eating disorders play out in men are unique.
Eating Disorder NOS Definition
Learn the formal definition for eating disorder not otherwise specified (EDNOS), a diagnosis that covers eating disorders that are not anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa.
Learn the formal definition for eating disorder not otherwise specified (EDNOS), a diagnosis that covers eating disorders that are not anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa.
Bulimia and Your Teeth
Bulimia has a profound effect on teeth. Long before you make a visit to the dentist for your regular checkup, damage from bulimia to teeth can be significant.
Bulimia has a profound effect on teeth. Long before you make a visit to the dentist for your regular checkup, damage from bulimia to teeth can be significant.
Symptoms of Eating Disorders
Eating disorder symptom lists for major (and other) eating disorders. Eating disorder symptoms manifest in physical, mental, and behavioral ways.
Eating disorder symptom lists for major (and other) eating disorders. Eating disorder symptoms manifest in physical, mental, and behavioral ways.
H1N1 and Eating Disorders
The H1N1 (swine flu) virus is a concern that has many people trying to boost their immune systems. What if you have an eating disorder? Is your immune system compromised, and are you more likely to contract the H1N1 virus?
The H1N1 (swine flu) virus is a concern that has many people trying to boost their immune systems. What if you have an eating disorder? Is your immune system compromised, and are you more likely to contract the H1N1 virus?
Diagnosis of Eating Disorders
Knowing whether you or a loved one has an eating disorder is key to beginning to move into healthier ways of living. But how do you find out whether an eating disorder diagnosis is appropriate in your situation?
Knowing whether you or a loved one has an eating disorder is key to beginning to move into healthier ways of living. But how do you find out whether an eating disorder diagnosis is appropriate in your situation?
Are You an Emotional Eater?
An emotional eater rarely knows that she is dealing with major emotions, and she knows even less often that these emotions trigger eating.
An emotional eater rarely knows that she is dealing with major emotions, and she knows even less often that these emotions trigger eating.
Binge-Eating Disorder Defined
Learn the definition under consideration for binge-eating disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. Binge-eating disorder is a disorder that qualifies for a diagnosis of Eating Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (NOS).
Learn the definition under consideration for binge-eating disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. Binge-eating disorder is a disorder that qualifies for a diagnosis of Eating Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (NOS).
Self-Injury and Eating
Self-injury is common in those with eating disorders. Individuals who self-harm may do so by cutting, burning, or any of dozens of other ways. Learn why self-injury is so attractive to these persons, and why it isn't a bid for attention.
Self-injury is common in those with eating disorders. Individuals who self-harm may do so by cutting, burning, or any of dozens of other ways. Learn why self-injury is so attractive to these persons, and why it isn't a bid for attention.
Nasogastric Tube Feeding
In the latter stages of anorexia nervosa, nasogastric tube feeding may be what keeps a patient alive. What are the benefits and drawbacks of nasogastric tube feeding?
In the latter stages of anorexia nervosa, nasogastric tube feeding may be what keeps a patient alive. What are the benefits and drawbacks of nasogastric tube feeding?
Dieting and Eating Disorders
Dieting and its promises of weight loss are very compelling, but dieting has strong ties to the development of eating disorders. Eating disorders of all kinds are logical outcomes of the mental and physical consequences of dieting.
Dieting and its promises of weight loss are very compelling, but dieting has strong ties to the development of eating disorders. Eating disorders of all kinds are logical outcomes of the mental and physical consequences of dieting.
Understanding Emotional Eating
Emotional eating is a common way for us to avoid emotions, and many of us don't realize we're doing it. But emotional eating doesn't have to have control of your life.
Emotional eating is a common way for us to avoid emotions, and many of us don't realize we're doing it. But emotional eating doesn't have to have control of your life.
Eating Disorders - How to Help
It can be difficult to help a family member or friend with an eating disorder. What we want to do to help can sometimes be harmful. Helping someone with an eating disorder requires patience, persistence, and knowledge of your limitations.
It can be difficult to help a family member or friend with an eating disorder. What we want to do to help can sometimes be harmful. Helping someone with an eating disorder requires patience, persistence, and knowledge of your limitations.
Age for Eating Disorders
Eating disorders develop at relatively early ages, and those ages are getting younger. What are the reasons why eating disorders manifest in adolescents?
Eating disorders develop at relatively early ages, and those ages are getting younger. What are the reasons why eating disorders manifest in adolescents?
The Psychology of Bulimia
What goes on in the mind of someone with bulimia? The psychology of bulimia is centered around rituals of thought and behavior.
What goes on in the mind of someone with bulimia? The psychology of bulimia is centered around rituals of thought and behavior.
Eating Disorders & Personality
A look at how eating disorders and personality disorders are related, based on behavioral symptoms and relationship tendencies. Personality disorders and eating disorders, when both present, tend to mimic each other.
A look at how eating disorders and personality disorders are related, based on behavioral symptoms and relationship tendencies. Personality disorders and eating disorders, when both present, tend to mimic each other.
What Harm Does BED Cause?
As with other eating disorders, binge-eating disorder carries significant medical risks. The medical issues connected with binge-eating disorder may be different than you expect.
As with other eating disorders, binge-eating disorder carries significant medical risks. The medical issues connected with binge-eating disorder may be different than you expect.
Eating Disorders and Pregnancy
Does an eating disorder make a future pregnancy high-risk? Draw conclusions from medical research and available data.
Does an eating disorder make a future pregnancy high-risk? Draw conclusions from medical research and available data.
What is Bulimia?
Learn the criteria for diagnosis of bulimia nervosa from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders.
Learn the criteria for diagnosis of bulimia nervosa from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders.
Vomiting After Eating
A quick description of how vomiting after meals or snacks points to an eating disorder.
A quick description of how vomiting after meals or snacks points to an eating disorder.
Celebrity Eating Disorders
A growing list of profiles of celebrities with eating disorders. Includes background, history of disordered eating, and how current circumstances may factor into recovery.
A growing list of profiles of celebrities with eating disorders. Includes background, history of disordered eating, and how current circumstances may factor into recovery.
EDs and Sex Addiction
We're learning that sex addiction and an eating disorder often occur in the same person. Why is this likely, and what will it take to address both sex addiction and eating disorders in treatment?
We're learning that sex addiction and an eating disorder often occur in the same person. Why is this likely, and what will it take to address both sex addiction and eating disorders in treatment?
Night Eating Syndrome
A person with night eating syndrome engages in most of his or her food intake at the evening meal and later, into the night. The desire to eat often interrupts sleep.
A person with night eating syndrome engages in most of his or her food intake at the evening meal and later, into the night. The desire to eat often interrupts sleep.
Is Eating Standing Up Bad?
Many of us resort to eating while standing up just to get through the day. Harmless? Maybe. And it also may have something to do with disordered eating.
Many of us resort to eating while standing up just to get through the day. Harmless? Maybe. And it also may have something to do with disordered eating.
Genetics and Eating Disorders
Evidence mounts for a genetic component to eating disorder development.
Evidence mounts for a genetic component to eating disorder development.
Binge-Eating Disorder Stats
We're learning that binge-eating disorder (BED) is widespread, but statistics on binge-eating disorder are a little less commonly understood. Who does it affect? How often?
We're learning that binge-eating disorder (BED) is widespread, but statistics on binge-eating disorder are a little less commonly understood. Who does it affect? How often?
Symptoms of BED
Describes the major symptoms of binge-eating disorder (BED) -- physical, mental, and behavioral. Some symptoms of binge-eating disorder are found in bulimia nervosa as well, while others also show up in those who are simply overweight.
Describes the major symptoms of binge-eating disorder (BED) -- physical, mental, and behavioral. Some symptoms of binge-eating disorder are found in bulimia nervosa as well, while others also show up in those who are simply overweight.
Dysmorphia
Dysmorphia in the medical community describes a part of the body that is out of proportion in some way. But many believe that their bodies are out of proportion when they aren't.
Dysmorphia in the medical community describes a part of the body that is out of proportion in some way. But many believe that their bodies are out of proportion when they aren't.
Drug Treatment for BED
There are a number of drugs prescribed for treatment of binge-eating disorder. Learn about classes of medications available, what they promise, and what you need to know to be smart about using them.
There are a number of drugs prescribed for treatment of binge-eating disorder. Learn about classes of medications available, what they promise, and what you need to know to be smart about using them.
Karen Carpenter's Anorexia
In death, Karen Carpenter forced millions to become aware of anorexia nervosa and its potential to be lethal. Her life gives us clues as to how Carpenter's mindset began to bend toward anorexia.
In death, Karen Carpenter forced millions to become aware of anorexia nervosa and its potential to be lethal. Her life gives us clues as to how Carpenter's mindset began to bend toward anorexia.
Anorexia Nervosa Therapy
Individual therapy for anorexia nervosa can be a key part of recovery when used with other supports. Learn various types of anorexia nervosa therapy.
Individual therapy for anorexia nervosa can be a key part of recovery when used with other supports. Learn various types of anorexia nervosa therapy.
Anorexia and Isolation
While anorexia leads to a sense of power, it also tends to lead to isolation. Those with anorexia tend to lose friends and connections with family, isolating them from those who care for them.
While anorexia leads to a sense of power, it also tends to lead to isolation. Those with anorexia tend to lose friends and connections with family, isolating them from those who care for them.
Eating Disorder Relapse
Relapse in eating disorders is relatively common. It is not the end of recovery, however, for those who choose to move forward. Knowing what leads to eating disorder relapse and how to bounce back from it are powerful tools.
Relapse in eating disorders is relatively common. It is not the end of recovery, however, for those who choose to move forward. Knowing what leads to eating disorder relapse and how to bounce back from it are powerful tools.
Treating the Whole Disorder
Eating disorder treatment can seem as complex as eating disorders themselves. The causes and effects of the disorder require multiple forms of treatment to achieve the best outcomes.
Eating disorder treatment can seem as complex as eating disorders themselves. The causes and effects of the disorder require multiple forms of treatment to achieve the best outcomes.
Unsatisfying Intimacy
Pro-ana and pro-mia promote unhealthy eating patterns and behaviors. See how pro-ana and pro-mia sites fail to deliver what they promise.
Pro-ana and pro-mia promote unhealthy eating patterns and behaviors. See how pro-ana and pro-mia sites fail to deliver what they promise.
Mindful Eating for Binge Help
Mindful eating, or sensual eating, is a term used to describe having intentional awareness about food and the process of eating. Often we pay little attention to what we are eating and how it tastes. Eating without awareness can lead to (or be a part of) eating disorders.
Mindful eating, or sensual eating, is a term used to describe having intentional awareness about food and the process of eating. Often we pay little attention to what we are eating and how it tastes. Eating without awareness can lead to (or be a part of) eating disorders.
Emotional Eating Treatment
If you have decided that you may eat to soothe your emotions, then overcoming emotional eating is the next step. You have a number of emotional eating treatment options that can lead you to a healthier lifestyle.
If you have decided that you may eat to soothe your emotions, then overcoming emotional eating is the next step. You have a number of emotional eating treatment options that can lead you to a healthier lifestyle.
Find Eating Disorder Therapist
Locate a therapist in your area who specializes in eating disorders. Links to information on eating disorder counselors around the country.
Locate a therapist in your area who specializes in eating disorders. Links to information on eating disorder counselors around the country.
Therapy for Bulimia
Therapy for bulimia nervosa means dealing with emotional and psychological issues that accompany the physical. Individual therapy is the most widely available form of therapy for bulimia.
Therapy for bulimia nervosa means dealing with emotional and psychological issues that accompany the physical. Individual therapy is the most widely available form of therapy for bulimia.
Abuse of Ipecac Syrup
Ipecac syrup is a powerful medicine created to help remove poison from the body. It is dangerous when used in eating disorder practices.
Ipecac syrup is a powerful medicine created to help remove poison from the body. It is dangerous when used in eating disorder practices.
Recovery From Anorexia
When seeking treatment for anorexia, many providers will publish their recovery rates, but what does recovery from anorexia really mean?
When seeking treatment for anorexia, many providers will publish their recovery rates, but what does recovery from anorexia really mean?
Guide to Healthy Eating
Healthy eating is an important goal. But what does "healthy" mean? Here's an approach you won't find on weight loss ads.
Healthy eating is an important goal. But what does "healthy" mean? Here's an approach you won't find on weight loss ads.
Vegetarians and EDs
A switch to vegetarianism is an attractive choice for many people who have ethical concerns and desires to be more healthy. The question is whether becoming a vegetarian opens the door to developing an eating disorder.
A switch to vegetarianism is an attractive choice for many people who have ethical concerns and desires to be more healthy. The question is whether becoming a vegetarian opens the door to developing an eating disorder.
How EDs Change Mealtimes
When a child or loved one has an eating disorder, you may feel as though you're losing control of everything--mealtime, social time, finances, and more. It's key to maintain a voice where you can.
When a child or loved one has an eating disorder, you may feel as though you're losing control of everything--mealtime, social time, finances, and more. It's key to maintain a voice where you can.
Intuitive Eating
Intuitive Eating is a way to escape the drag of eating problems and dieting. Read about a book that offers change to anyone whose eating is not what it could be.
Intuitive Eating is a way to escape the drag of eating problems and dieting. Read about a book that offers change to anyone whose eating is not what it could be.
Muscle Dysmorphic Disorder
Muscle dysmorphic disorder, also known as "bigorexia," is not classified as an eating disorder. But in many ways, it is the opposite of anorexia. Muscle dysmorphic disorder involves fear about the body's appearance--in this case, that it is not muscular enough.
Muscle dysmorphic disorder, also known as "bigorexia," is not classified as an eating disorder. But in many ways, it is the opposite of anorexia. Muscle dysmorphic disorder involves fear about the body's appearance--in this case, that it is not muscular enough.
I Like My Stomach Empty
Some individuals enjoy having an empty stomach. What makes this attractive, and what does it mean?
Some individuals enjoy having an empty stomach. What makes this attractive, and what does it mean?
Refeeding in Anorexia Nervosa
Of all the treatments that exist for anorexia nervosa, refeeding (basically, introducing calories) is the most important. But how does refeeding occur when a person doesn't want to eat?
Of all the treatments that exist for anorexia nervosa, refeeding (basically, introducing calories) is the most important. But how does refeeding occur when a person doesn't want to eat?
Eating Disorders and Behaviors
What behaviors increase the risk for development of an eating disorder? Unfortunately, the biggest is dieting.
What behaviors increase the risk for development of an eating disorder? Unfortunately, the biggest is dieting.
Find an Eating Disorder Doctor
Locate a doctor who specializes in the medical side of eating disorder treatment.
Locate a doctor who specializes in the medical side of eating disorder treatment.
What Happens in a Binge
Binge eating, whether in bulimia nervosa or binge-eating disorder, can tell us about what goes on in the mind of the person binging. The mechanics of binge eating reveal inner turmoil.
Binge eating, whether in bulimia nervosa or binge-eating disorder, can tell us about what goes on in the mind of the person binging. The mechanics of binge eating reveal inner turmoil.
Abuse and Trauma
Explore the powerful contribution a history of abuse can make to the formation of an eating disorder. The loss of control and the confusion of abuse make eating disorders more likely.
Explore the powerful contribution a history of abuse can make to the formation of an eating disorder. The loss of control and the confusion of abuse make eating disorders more likely.
Eating When Not Hungry
When a person eats when not hungry, there are often deeper issues at play. Eating is soothing, and when a person is hungry, it soothes hunger. Eating when not hungry implies that the eating is soothing something else.
When a person eats when not hungry, there are often deeper issues at play. Eating is soothing, and when a person is hungry, it soothes hunger. Eating when not hungry implies that the eating is soothing something else.
Bulimarexia
Bulimarexia is an eating disorder term that has fallen from mainstream usage. Is it more like bulimia, or more like anorexia?
Bulimarexia is an eating disorder term that has fallen from mainstream usage. Is it more like bulimia, or more like anorexia?
What is a Healthy Weight?
How do you know your healthy weight? There are many tools available that will tell you exactly what "your healthy weight" is. But what do these tools know, and what do they really tell you?
How do you know your healthy weight? There are many tools available that will tell you exactly what "your healthy weight" is. But what do these tools know, and what do they really tell you?
Fiona Apple
Fiona Apple has struggled with an eating disorder that looks a lot like anorexia. The circumstances around Apple's eating disorder and the ways in which it manifested are compelling.
Fiona Apple has struggled with an eating disorder that looks a lot like anorexia. The circumstances around Apple's eating disorder and the ways in which it manifested are compelling.
Evidence-Based Treatment
More and more, "evidence-based treatment" is becoming recognized as the standard for eating disorder treatment providers. But what is evidence-based treatment, and what kinds of treatment providers offer it?
More and more, "evidence-based treatment" is becoming recognized as the standard for eating disorder treatment providers. But what is evidence-based treatment, and what kinds of treatment providers offer it?
Feeling Guilty After Eating
A note on how guilt in eating can contribute to eating disorders.
A note on how guilt in eating can contribute to eating disorders.
Choosing a Support Group
Learn the questions to ask to help you decide how to choose an eating disorder support group, whether for anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, or another eating disorder.
Learn the questions to ask to help you decide how to choose an eating disorder support group, whether for anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, or another eating disorder.
Seeking "Specialness"
We all want to be "special" in some sense, but those with anorexia pursue their desire for "specialness" with extra passion. Psychologically and practically, where does this lead? Learn more about the psychology of anorexia.
We all want to be "special" in some sense, but those with anorexia pursue their desire for "specialness" with extra passion. Psychologically and practically, where does this lead? Learn more about the psychology of anorexia.
Hypokalemia
A definition of hypokalemia and its role in eating disorders.
A definition of hypokalemia and its role in eating disorders.
Binging Is Really Deprivation
We think of binge eating (or compulsive overeating) as gluttonous, wasteful, and indulgent, but to stop binge eating, it's more helpful to recognize where it deprives a person of core desires. Binge eating's numbness takes away the ability to pursue genuine wants and needs.
We think of binge eating (or compulsive overeating) as gluttonous, wasteful, and indulgent, but to stop binge eating, it's more helpful to recognize where it deprives a person of core desires. Binge eating's numbness takes away the ability to pursue genuine wants and needs.
10 Eating Disorder Phrases
If your adolescent has an eating disorder, it can be hard to know what's going on inside her head. There may be strange behaviors that you don't understand. What do adolescents with eating disorders tell themselves in their self-talk?
If your adolescent has an eating disorder, it can be hard to know what's going on inside her head. There may be strange behaviors that you don't understand. What do adolescents with eating disorders tell themselves in their self-talk?
Drunkorexia: Eating Disorder?
Drunkorexia is a term used to describe restricting food intake and yet consuming alcohol, effectively making calories come mostly from drinking. Is it an eating disorder, an alcohol addiction, or something else?
Drunkorexia is a term used to describe restricting food intake and yet consuming alcohol, effectively making calories come mostly from drinking. Is it an eating disorder, an alcohol addiction, or something else?
Fear of Being Overweight
Quick thoughts on why a fear of becoming overweight may indicate the presence of an eating disorder.
Quick thoughts on why a fear of becoming overweight may indicate the presence of an eating disorder.
Emotional Binge Eating
Binge eating, most simply, is eating a lot of food in a short period of time. When binge eating causes are emotions, binge eating falls into the category of emotional eating.
Binge eating, most simply, is eating a lot of food in a short period of time. When binge eating causes are emotions, binge eating falls into the category of emotional eating.
College and Eating Disorders
How do you deal with a son or daughter who has an eating disorder and is off to college? It's hard enough for parents to handle the situation when the teen is at home. But there are ways to ensure that he or she gets help for the eating disorder.
How do you deal with a son or daughter who has an eating disorder and is off to college? It's hard enough for parents to handle the situation when the teen is at home. But there are ways to ensure that he or she gets help for the eating disorder.
CBT After Weight Gain
Anorexia nervosa has been somewhat resistant to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), but a study has now looked at the effectiveness of CBT as a maintenance treatment once a person's weight has been restored.
Anorexia nervosa has been somewhat resistant to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), but a study has now looked at the effectiveness of CBT as a maintenance treatment once a person's weight has been restored.
Paula Abdul
Paula Abdul first described her battle with bulimia in the mid-1990s. Ms. Abdul now speaks as an advocate for eating disorder awareness.
Paula Abdul first described her battle with bulimia in the mid-1990s. Ms. Abdul now speaks as an advocate for eating disorder awareness.
Eating Disorders: Addictions?
Eating disorders and addictions in general are similar, but similar enough to call eating disorders addictions? It's not an easy call.
Eating disorders and addictions in general are similar, but similar enough to call eating disorders addictions? It's not an easy call.
Eating Disorders Anonymous
Based on the long tradition begun by Alcoholics Anonymous, Eating Disorders Anonymous and other 12-step groups offer healing for eating disorders of all kinds.
Based on the long tradition begun by Alcoholics Anonymous, Eating Disorders Anonymous and other 12-step groups offer healing for eating disorders of all kinds.
Overeating's Short-Term Relief
While overeating can be hard to stop, it's also often misunderstood. If you're overeating, understanding the causes (and recognizing the effects that you may not hear much about) may give you a way toward a better relationship with food.
While overeating can be hard to stop, it's also often misunderstood. If you're overeating, understanding the causes (and recognizing the effects that you may not hear much about) may give you a way toward a better relationship with food.
Eating Disorder Quiz Results - SCOFF Eating Disorder Quiz Results
The SCOFF eating disorder quiz is quick, easy to score, and a good indicator of the need to see an eating disorder professional.
The SCOFF eating disorder quiz is quick, easy to score, and a good indicator of the need to see an eating disorder professional.
Eating Disorder Heritability
The heritability of eating disorders, such as anorexia and bulimia is high. Does that mean that if your mom has an eating disorder, you will as well? Well, no, but it may pay to take some good precautions.
The heritability of eating disorders, such as anorexia and bulimia is high. Does that mean that if your mom has an eating disorder, you will as well? Well, no, but it may pay to take some good precautions.
Building a Treatment Team
Creating your own eating disorder treatment program (with a powerful team of professionals) may seem overwhelming, but breaking it down into parts can ease the burden. Explore treatment program options for eating disorders and find professional resources.
Creating your own eating disorder treatment program (with a powerful team of professionals) may seem overwhelming, but breaking it down into parts can ease the burden. Explore treatment program options for eating disorders and find professional resources.
What to Expect in Treatment
Choosing to enter treatment for an eating disorder is a courageous act. Get a head start by finding out what happens in an initial evaluation.
Choosing to enter treatment for an eating disorder is a courageous act. Get a head start by finding out what happens in an initial evaluation.
Eating Disorders - QuickTips
An index of QuickTips for the Eating Disorders guide site.
An index of QuickTips for the Eating Disorders guide site.
Purging
Definition of purging
Definition of purging
Lanugo
Lanugo defined.
Lanugo defined.
Calorie Restriction's Hazards
The extreme calorie restriction diet, or reducing 20-40 percent of food intake while getting essential nutrients, is a controversial and dramatic practice that proponents say will lead to a healthier and longer life. The long-term risks are unknown.
The extreme calorie restriction diet, or reducing 20-40 percent of food intake while getting essential nutrients, is a controversial and dramatic practice that proponents say will lead to a healthier and longer life. The long-term risks are unknown.
Can I Catch Anorexia?
If you want to be anorexic, can you make it happen? Can you catch anorexia like the flu? And what would happen if you could?
If you want to be anorexic, can you make it happen? Can you catch anorexia like the flu? And what would happen if you could?
Binge Eating and CBT
A look at how cognitive-behavioral therapy can provide better results for those suffering from binge-eating disorder (BED) if there is quick improvement at the outset of treatment. Also discusses what a client should do if quick improvement does not occur with cognitive-behavioral therapy.
A look at how cognitive-behavioral therapy can provide better results for those suffering from binge-eating disorder (BED) if there is quick improvement at the outset of treatment. Also discusses what a client should do if quick improvement does not occur with cognitive-behavioral therapy.
Eating Disorder Groups
A significant part of many eating disorder treatment plans is group work of some kind. Whether its main purpose is therapy, support, or a twelve-step recovery process, a group offers unique help in treatment and recovery.
A significant part of many eating disorder treatment plans is group work of some kind. Whether its main purpose is therapy, support, or a twelve-step recovery process, a group offers unique help in treatment and recovery.
Others Want Me to Eat
A brief note on how others' opinions that a person isn't eating enough may be a sign that an eating disorder is present.
A brief note on how others' opinions that a person isn't eating enough may be a sign that an eating disorder is present.
I Have Self-Control
A peek at the two sides of self-control--how control can go too far and indicate a potential eating disorder.
A peek at the two sides of self-control--how control can go too far and indicate a potential eating disorder.
What is "Thinspo"?
"Thinspo," or "thinspiration," is anything that a person with an eating disorder uses to "inspire" herself to lose weight or stay thin.
"Thinspo," or "thinspiration," is anything that a person with an eating disorder uses to "inspire" herself to lose weight or stay thin.
Eating Disorders and Insurance
You have an eating disorder, or perhaps your child does, and you want to use your health insurance for treatment. Surprise! The coverage is weak, if it exists at all. Why don't insurance providers cover eating disorders? And what can you do about it?
You have an eating disorder, or perhaps your child does, and you want to use your health insurance for treatment. Surprise! The coverage is weak, if it exists at all. Why don't insurance providers cover eating disorders? And what can you do about it?
Binge Eating
Binge eating defined
Binge eating defined
Anorexia and Pregnancy
Research indicates that anorexia may have a significant impact on pregnancy. See reports from the 2008 International Conference on Eating Disorders (ICED).
Research indicates that anorexia may have a significant impact on pregnancy. See reports from the 2008 International Conference on Eating Disorders (ICED).
Prader-Willi Syndrome
Prader-Willi Syndrome is a genetic disorder that causes dysfunction in eating and many other problems. Those with Prader-Willi can literally eat themselves to death.
Prader-Willi Syndrome is a genetic disorder that causes dysfunction in eating and many other problems. Those with Prader-Willi can literally eat themselves to death.
Other Eating Disorders
You may know about anorexia and bulimia. What other eating disorders exist? There is a wide variety of disordered eating affecting many populations.
You may know about anorexia and bulimia. What other eating disorders exist? There is a wide variety of disordered eating affecting many populations.
Eating Disorders and Halloween
Halloween and eating disorders aren't much fun together. With its emphasis on foods that make it easy to binge, Halloween presents a unique challenge. But it's an obstacle that doesn't have to ruin your self-image. Use the day to your advantage.
Halloween and eating disorders aren't much fun together. With its emphasis on foods that make it easy to binge, Halloween presents a unique challenge. But it's an obstacle that doesn't have to ruin your self-image. Use the day to your advantage.
Rumination Disorder
Rumination disorder involves regurgitating and often rechewing food that has already been swallowed. Rumination disorder affects a number of populations but is most common in infants.
Rumination disorder involves regurgitating and often rechewing food that has already been swallowed. Rumination disorder affects a number of populations but is most common in infants.
My Eating Disorder, My Abuser
Getting out of an abusive relationship is difficult, and so is recovering from an eating disorder. The similarities don't stop there. In fact, eating disorders enter into abusive relationships with those who have them.
Getting out of an abusive relationship is difficult, and so is recovering from an eating disorder. The similarities don't stop there. In fact, eating disorders enter into abusive relationships with those who have them.
Alanis Morissette
Alanis Morisette is one of many celebrities who has struggled (or who still struggles) with an eating disorder. Learn more about Alanis Morisette in this profile.
Alanis Morisette is one of many celebrities who has struggled (or who still struggles) with an eating disorder. Learn more about Alanis Morisette in this profile.
Is Pro-Ana Nation a Cult?
Pro-ana web sites are powerful. But in what way? Those who describe their benefits cite mutual support, encouragement and accountability. But members of pro-ana nation develop ties to their web sites that suggest problems.
Pro-ana web sites are powerful. But in what way? Those who describe their benefits cite mutual support, encouragement and accountability. But members of pro-ana nation develop ties to their web sites that suggest problems.
More is at Stake Than Eating
Involving family in eating disorder treatment is a growing trend that has significant benefits. The family of a person with an eating disorder includes those who often feel the disorder's impact the most. Including family members in treatment and the recovery process can give them a sense of relief from not knowing what to do.
Involving family in eating disorder treatment is a growing trend that has significant benefits. The family of a person with an eating disorder includes those who often feel the disorder's impact the most. Including family members in treatment and the recovery process can give them a sense of relief from not knowing what to do.
Eating in Secret
If you find yourself eating in secret, you may be participating in emotional eating. Eating in secret implies that nourishment is not your goal when you eat.
If you find yourself eating in secret, you may be participating in emotional eating. Eating in secret implies that nourishment is not your goal when you eat.
DBT for Binge-Eating Disorder
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is under investigation as a treatment for binge eating (compulsive overeating). DBT's ability to help regulate emotions may make it as effective for binge eating as it is for its original purpose, borderline personality disorder.
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is under investigation as a treatment for binge eating (compulsive overeating). DBT's ability to help regulate emotions may make it as effective for binge eating as it is for its original purpose, borderline personality disorder.
Levels of ED Treatment
Choosing the proper level of eating disorder treatment can strongly influence recovery outcomes. Be armed with the right criteria to choose the level of eating disorder treatment that fits.
Choosing the proper level of eating disorder treatment can strongly influence recovery outcomes. Be armed with the right criteria to choose the level of eating disorder treatment that fits.
Binge-Eating Disorder
Binge-eating disorder affects more men and women in the United States than anorexia and bulimia combined. Find everything from diagnostic criteria to symptoms to treatment and recovery help for binge-eating disorder.
Binge-eating disorder affects more men and women in the United States than anorexia and bulimia combined. Find everything from diagnostic criteria to symptoms to treatment and recovery help for binge-eating disorder.
Unilever Bans Too-Thin Models
Following bans on models who are too thin at major fashion shows worldwide, consumer product group Unilever has restricted its advertising models to a healthy weight range.
Following bans on models who are too thin at major fashion shows worldwide, consumer product group Unilever has restricted its advertising models to a healthy weight range.
Anorexia and Suicide
The threat of suicide makes anorexia nervosa especially dangerous. Anorexia has a very high mortality rate, and suicide is a significant contributor.
The threat of suicide makes anorexia nervosa especially dangerous. Anorexia has a very high mortality rate, and suicide is a significant contributor.
More Than Dessert
Comments on a powerful and insightful book from someone who has been there (and back) herself.
Comments on a powerful and insightful book from someone who has been there (and back) herself.
Anorexia and Prozac
A number of studies exist testing the effectiveness of Prozac (fluoxetine) as a treatment for anorexia nervosa in various stages. The promise, however, seems to exceed the effectiveness.
A number of studies exist testing the effectiveness of Prozac (fluoxetine) as a treatment for anorexia nervosa in various stages. The promise, however, seems to exceed the effectiveness.
Bulimia's Purging Threshold
Among the facets of the psychology of bulimia is the specific point during binging at which purging seems to become the only option. This "purging threshold" is a key moment in the cycle of binging and purging.
Among the facets of the psychology of bulimia is the specific point during binging at which purging seems to become the only option. This "purging threshold" is a key moment in the cycle of binging and purging.
Psychosocial Treatment of AN
Anorexia affects people in physical and psychosocial ways, and treatment must respond to both. Psychosocial treatment, including psychotherapy, must be timed right relative to physical treatment and performed by qualified providers.
Anorexia affects people in physical and psychosocial ways, and treatment must respond to both. Psychosocial treatment, including psychotherapy, must be timed right relative to physical treatment and performed by qualified providers.
Through True Eyes
Through True Eyes is an eating disorder film that tells the stories of three women and their recovery from eating disorders. It is a powerful film that gives an accurate view of the world of those who battle eating disorders.
Through True Eyes is an eating disorder film that tells the stories of three women and their recovery from eating disorders. It is a powerful film that gives an accurate view of the world of those who battle eating disorders.
Amenorrhea
Definition of amenorrhea
Definition of amenorrhea
Father Hunger- -A Book Review
Margo Maine's Father Hunger turns the spotlight on the dads in the lives of those with eating disorders. It is an ambitious work and a rewarding read.
Margo Maine's Father Hunger turns the spotlight on the dads in the lives of those with eating disorders. It is an ambitious work and a rewarding read.