Eating disorders

An eating disorder is a mental health condition in which the individual becomes hyperfocused on food and weight loss issues. The three main types of eating disorders include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder .¹ People with eating disorders can show many symptoms that cause serious emotional and physical problems. These symptoms can lead to severe, even fatal, medical complications if left without treatment. While eating disorders are more common in women, it is important to note that men also live with them.²

Research suggests that one cause of eating disorders is how one copes with emotions and trauma.³ Complex causes and symptoms lead to various treatment techniques, which almost always include medical monitoring and nutritional support. People with eating disorders should generally be treated with a multidisciplinary team approach that consists of a medical doctor, psychiatrist, therapist, and a registered dietitian.