Eating
Disorders
Eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa as well as disordered eating behaviors such as binge eating disorder (BED) affect millions of people every year. In fact, the Anorexia and Bulimia Association estimates that every year one million women develop eating disorders, and 150,000 die of anorexia nervosa. Ninety-five percent of individuals with eating disorders are female. The shocking reality of these statistics explains the self-destructing path of a victim with an eating disorder.
These diseases are characterized by self-starvation, binging, purging, and an intense fear of becoming “fat” or gaining weight. They are serious and potentially life-threatening conditions. Anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa are an internal challenge for the body and mind of a victim. Often, because of lack of nutritional knowledge, the sufferer has no idea the damage they are doing to their body. If you or someone you know is suffering from an eating disorder or a disordered eating behavior, Dr. Adams can explain the consequences, both biological and psychological, and put together a treatment plan to help you regain your health and confidence and get your life back together. Dr. Adams uses a treatment team that includes behavior modification specialists, psychologists, and psychiatrists to ensure a complete management of your illness.
Some consequences of anorexia nervosa include :
- Dehydration characterized by an electrolyte imbalance and potassium deficiency
- Amenorrhea (loss of a menstrual cycle)
- Laxative and diuretic abuse
- Edema (swelling of hands and feet due to water retention)
- Hyperactivity (typically in anorectic patients)
- Dry skin
- Growth of downy hair (lanugo)
- Psychological factors
Some consequences of bulimia nervosa include:
- Tears in esophageal lining
- Development of ulcers
- Stomach rupturing
- Anemia
- Edema
- Dental problems (like decaying and rotting of teeth)
- Laxative and diuretic abuse
- Ingestion of ipecac
- Psychological factors
Once a person is in a cycle of abuse, it is a difficult and long process for them to return back to a healthy state, both physically and mentally. In order to do this, they will need a determined daily amount of calories including any nutrients that may be deficient, as well as improving their self esteem. Dr. Adams can work with you or someone you know suffering from an eating disorder to determine the appropriate foods and amount of calories that will aid in the treatment and recovery process.
References
White, William C., Jr., Ph.D. and Boskind-White, Marlene, Ph.D. Bulimia and Anorexia . New York : Norton, 2000.
Zeman, Frances J. Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics . New York : Macmillan, 1991.
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