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EATING DISORDERS



EATING DISORDERS



Where food is no longer eaten for positive reasons like pleasure and the maintenance of physical health. But used as a weapon to avoid negative experiences and a way of coping with problems. New Zealand research of 15 year olds showed that although 75% were healthy weights 68% of all girls wanted to lose weight. 54% of girls reported that they are dieting and have done so since they were about 13 years old.



An eating disorder is present when a person:



· Is constantly thinking about eating or not eating



· feels out of control around food



· Uses food to meet needs other than hunger



· Becomes obsessed about food, weight and body shape.



It can affect anyone of any weight.



The four main types are as follows:



· Anorexia Nervosa



· Bulimia nervosa



· Bing Eating



· EDOS



The high risk groups are young women with a low or high BMI who have weight concerns, menstrual disturbance, GI disorders or psychological problems.



DSM-IV Anorexia Nervosa



A. Low weight of less than 85% of the expected weight for their age and height.



B. Intense fear of weight gain or becoming fat.



C. Body image disturbances such as becoming unduely influenced by body weight/shape on self-evaluation and denying the seriousness of low weight.



Binging is:



Objective and eating more than most people would and lacking control



Subjective: Eating more than most people would (perceived only by patient) and lack of control.



Triggers include



Depression
Anxiety disorders (OCD)
Family relationship problems
Emotional deregulation



Signs to watch for:



Dramatic weight loss
Wearing loose, bulky clothes
Preoccupation with food-dieting, counting calories
Refusal to eat certain foods-fats/ carbs
Avoiding meal times
Exercising excessively.

Girl Power
Health
Asia Pacific
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