Eating disorders were previously felt to be mostly isolated to Caucasians in western countries but are now more prevalent in other regions and diverse ethnic groups. They are potentially life-threatening and are more likely to occur in women and girls. Certain personality traits such as perfectionism, anxiety, and behavioral inflexibility may increase one’s risk for developing an eating disorder.
Warning signs include:
·
Excessive dieting and exercise
·
Inducing vomiting after eating or taking
laxatives. It may not be obvious that someone is making themselves vomit so be
aware of this possibility if someone routinely heads to the bathroom right
after eating.
·
Distorted body image – the assertion that one is
overweight even when they are thin
·
Strictly counting calories
·
Obsession with food. Some people with eating
disorders will spend a lot of time preparing food for others without eating it
themselves.
·
Strictly limiting intake of foods or certain
types of foods
·
Weight loss
·
Binge eating
·
Dental erosion from stomach acids from frequent
vomiting
·
Loss of menstrual periods
Not everyone who exhibits one of these signs has an eating
disorder. For example, some people would consider training for marathons to be “excessive
exercise” and sometimes competitive athletes will stop menstruating during
their season of play. But if you see any of these signs, it is worth noting and
mentioning to your child’s physician.
Treatment can be difficult and involves both medical
monitoring as well as addressing psychological factors. Treatment is also likely
to be easier and more effective if the eating disorder is caught early so be
proactive in mentioning concerns to your child’s doctor if you see any of the
signs above.