Eating disorders are serious medical problems. Anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder are all types of eating disorders. Eating disorders frequently develop during adolescence or early adulthood, but can occur during childhood or later in adulthood. Females are more likely than males to develop an eating disorder. Only an estimated 5 to 15 percent of people with anorexia or bulimia and an estimated 35 percent of those with binge-eating disorder are male.
Eating disorders are more than just a problem with food. Food is used to feel in control of other feelings that may seem overwhelming. For example, starving is a way for people with anorexia to feel more in control of their lives and to ease tension, anger, and anxiety. Purging and other behaviors to prevent weight gain are ways for people with bulimia to feel more in control of their lives and to ease stress and anxiety.
While there is no single known cause of eating disorders, several things may contribute to the development of these disorders:
- Culture. The U.S. has a social and cultural ideal of extreme thinness. Women partially define themselves by how physically attractive they are.
- Personal characteristics. Feelings of helplessness, worthlessness, and poor self-image often accompany eating disorders.
- Other emotional disorders. Other mental health problems, like depression or anxiety, occur along with eating disorders.
- Stressful events or life changes. Things like starting a new school or job or being teased to traumatic events like rape can lead to the onset of eating disorders.
- Biology. Studies are being done to look at genes, hormones, and chemicals in the brain that may have an effect on the development of, and recovery from eating disorders.
- Families. The attitude of parents about appearance and diet affects their kids’ attitudes. Also, if your mother or sister has bulimia, you are more likely to have it.
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