Breaking Free from Disordered Eating

The Hidden Dangers of Disordered Eating

Disordered eating is a set of behaviors aimed at weight control, such as obsessively counting calories, restricting nutrients, and skipping meals. These behaviors have been normalized by society, making it challenging to recognize the dangers of disordered eating.

For instance, taking a staunchly moralistic approach to food, where certain foods are deemed “good” or “bad,” is often viewed as just “healthy eating.” However, this behavior can have serious consequences on a person’s well-being, especially in the long term.

Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms

Disordered eating can manifest in various ways, including:

• Physical symptoms: skipping meals, compulsive eating, and excessive exercise.
• Emotional signs: feelings of guilt or shame around food, tying self-worth to size or weight, and obsessing over body image.

It’s essential to remember that even if someone shows some of these signs, it’s not necessarily enough to warrant concern. A pattern of these behaviors or an emotional toll is a red flag.

The Long-term Effects

The subtle nature of disordered eating means it often goes unrecognized until the signs and effects have gotten serious. Possible long-term effects include:

• Depression
• Substance misuse
• Social isolation
• Malnutrition
• Suicidal thoughts

Orthorexia: The Obsession with “Healthy” Eating

Orthorexia refers to obsessively restricting food under the guise of “healthy” eating. Symptoms may include:

• Compulsively checking nutrition labels
• Cutting out entire food groups
• Feeling superior when one’s eating is more “pure” and “clean.”

There are several misconceptions surrounding disordered eating, including:

• That there is a specific “look” to eating disorders, when in reality, people of all sizes, weights, and genders can experience disordered eating.
• That disordered eating is a matter of vanity, when in fact, many people are trying to heal issues of self-worth.

How to Help a Loved One

If you’re concerned someone in your life is struggling with disordered eating, it’s essential to intervene in a kind and compassionate way. Remember to:

• Speak up early
• Avoid alienating them
• Understand why they may be experiencing disordered eating
• Be patient, as the first conversation may not go anywhere

Seeking Help for Yourself

If you struggle with disordered eating, know that you have options to find help. Consider:

• Confiding in a loved one
• Stopping weighing yourself
• Getting rid of clothes that don’t fit
• Curating a body-positive social feed
• Reaching out to a dietitian and/or therapist who specialize in eating disorders

Managing Existing Eating Habits

Developing habits that serve your well-being requires rewiring your brain to disregard socially accepted norms and accept yourself as you are. Try:

• Avoiding crash diets
• Celebrating food
• Prioritizing your mental health
• Exercising for enjoyment
• Focusing on activities that aren’t centered around burning calories or changing your body

By breaking free from disordered eating, you can cultivate a healthier relationship with food and your body.