Signs of an eating disorder. Signs of an eating disorder include rapid weight loss with fatigue and changes in the skin, hair, and nails. Almost half of all United States women are dieting. It is estimated...
Almost half of all United States women are dieting. It is estimated that 91 percent of women on college campuses have dieted, and 22 percent of them are often or always dieting. Many individuals feel dissatisfied with their body shape. Eighty percent of American women claim to be dissatisfied with their appearance and shape, and one in two American women are on a weight loss diet.
Eating disorders are illnesses, not choices. They are based on biological factors and are influenced by emotional and cultural factors. Eating disorders are serious illnesses, are life threatening if left untreated, but help is available and recovery is possible.
"The most obvious sign of anorexia is a rapid and severe weight loss," says Sondra Kronberg, a clinical nutrition therapist specializing in eating disorders. She is on the board of directors of the National Eating Disorders Association and is the executive director of NEDA Long Island. "Other signs that we would look for are hyperactivity or fatigue based on a lack of nutrients."
Anorexia is the most common eating disorder, and the one that is the hardest to correct. The signs of this disorder are typically: gradual or abrupt weight loss that can't be explained, insomnia or excessive sleeping, irregular menstrual periods or none at all, pale complexion, discolored skin and nails, dull eyes, brittle hair, hair loss, bruising easily, a body that does not repair itself when injured, frequent dizziness, and fainting spells.
"With bulimia, you would see other signs like bloodshot eyes, calluses around the fingers or the nails, and some purging," says Kronberg. "There are some things that happen within the body that are less visible, like changes in electrolyte balances or cardiac damage."
According to HealthyPlace.com, people suffering from anorexia are typically described as perfectionists. Nothing is ever good enough in their lives, including their bodies. They are often people pleasers, and they never say no for fear of no one liking them. They have low self-esteem and no self worth. They feel worthless after eating food or after gaining weight. They often experience depression, mood swings, and they are often upset about food. They also feel as if their bodies are the only thing they have control of in their lives.
"The stigma associated with eating disorders has long kept individuals suffering in silence, inhibited funding for crucial research, and created barriers to treatment," says the NEDA website.
