What are the main types of eating disorders?

Anorexia Nervosa

Anorexia nervosa is a serious psychological condition characterised by an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image. This disorder often leads to self-imposed starvation and excessive weight loss.

Individuals with anorexia may engage in extreme dieting, excessive exercise, and even purging to lose weight. Despite being underweight, sufferers often perceive themselves as overweight.

Common symptoms include severe calorie restriction, a fixation on food and dieting, and potential health complications like osteoporosis and heart issues.

Bulimia Nervosa

Bulimia nervosa involves cycles of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviours to prevent weight gain. These actions can include vomiting, fasting, or excessive exercise.

Individuals with bulimia often feel a loss of control during binges and use purging as an attempt to regain control. Despite potentially maintaining a normal weight, this disorder can have severe health implications.

Complications may include electrolyte imbalances, gastrointestinal issues, and dental problems due to vomiting.

Binge Eating Disorder

Binge eating disorder (BED) is characterised by recurring episodes of eating large quantities of food, often quickly and to the point of discomfort. Unlike bulimia, this is not followed by purging.

Individuals may feel shame or guilt after binging effects, but they may find it challenging to change their eating habits. This disorder is the most common eating disorder in the UK.

Complications can include obesity, cardiovascular issues, and psychological distress.

Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)

ARFID is an eating disorder where individuals avoid or restrict certain foods, not due to body image concerns but rather due to a lack of interest in eating, sensory issues, or fear of negative experiences.

This disorder often leads to nutritional deficiencies and weight loss, affecting the person’s health and development. It can start in childhood but continue into adulthood if untreated.

Therapy can help individuals reintroduce a variety of foods into their diet and address underlying anxieties or aversions.

Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorders (OSFED)

OSFED is a category for eating disorders that do not meet the strict criteria for other disorders like anorexia or bulimia. Despite not fitting into a specific category, these disorders are just as serious.

Examples include atypical anorexia, where weight is not significantly low, or bulimia with infrequent episodes. Each variant requires a tailored treatment approach.

The goal is to address the individual symptoms and underlying causes through therapy, nutritional education, and support.