The impact of these disorders extends emotionally, so parents play an important role in counselling, openly communicating, promoting body positivity, and educating the children as these disorders usually begin in one’s youth due to a lack of awareness and dietary misconceptions.
It is imperative to seek treatment early as individuals with eating disorders are at a higher risk for suicidal actions. Treatments are frequently multi-faceted, with psychotherapy and medical pharmacotherapy. Nutritional counselling and aftercare monitoring are also crucial.
Cognitive behavioural therapies may help in changing thinking patterns while medications like antidepressants can be used during treatment. Nutritional therapy involves filling gaps with vitamins and minerals. Zinc enhances the rate of recovery and helps improve anxiety and depression, while calcium and vitamin D use are recommended for reversing osteoporosis. Oral multivitamin and multi-mineral supplements are recommended initially.
Anorexia is marked by losing extreme weight by imposing self-starvation and severe food restrictions, while bulimia involves binge eating, which is followed by actions like vomiting, excessive exercise, or undefined fasting. Excessive self-starvation from food often results in malnutrition. On the other hand, binge eating is a type of eating disorder that involves eating large quantities of food and losing control over eating, leading to consequences like obesity and its related complications of diabetes, heart disease, and digestive disorders.
Eating disorders can stem from a complex interplay of genetic, biological, behavioural, psychological, and social factors. They often emerge in adolescence or early adulthood but can occur at any age. Eating disorders often stem from psychological factors such as low self-esteem, body dissatisfaction, perfectionism, and mood disorders like anxiety and depression. Research suggests a genetic predisposition, as eating disorders tend to run in families. Scientists are investigating DNA variations associated with increased risk. Brain imaging studies reveal differences in brain activity between those with eating disorders and healthy individuals, aiding diagnosis, and treatment development. Understanding these multifaceted influences is crucial for effective prevention and intervention strategies.
Seeking early treatment is crucial for eating disorders, as they pose risks of suicide and severe medical complications. Treatment plans are personalised and may involve individual or group psychotherapy, family counselling, medical monitoring, nutritional guidance, and medication when necessary. Complete recovery is achievable, especially with comprehensive support addressing both physical and psychological aspects of the disorder.
Read the full story that first appeared in Deccan Chronicle dated May 22, 2024 here:
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