Eating Disorders

Eating disorders are mental illnesses that cause problems in food and activity patterns, such as eating very small amounts of food or binge eating. People may over-exercise or try to get rid of food by vomiting, using laxatives or diet pills. Eating disorders can lead to life-threatening physical and emotional problems, in spite of a person's weight. Eating disorders do not have a "look". Eating disorders occur in people of all sizes and genders. Those living with eating disorders may also have other mental illnesses such as depression, anxiety or substance abuse.

The main types of eating disorders are:

Anorexia Nervosa
Bulimia Nervosa
Binge Eating Disorder

If you or a family member is living with an eating disorder

Treatment is best provided by a team of health care professionals. Treatment is tailored to individual needs and along with medical care, may include:

Individual or group therapy
Nutrition counseling
Family therapy
Medications

Parents and caregivers can be a powerful support for a loved one's recovery. With family receiving guidance from a treatment team, people can recover as an outpatient, but some may require a stay in hospital.

Nutrition to Keep You Healthy

Food is medicine. All treatment plans should include ongoing nutrition therapy. Achieving one's natural weight or pattern of growth and returning to a normal eating pattern are vital for recovery. Nutrition plans focus on restoring structure (regular meals and snacks), variety, moderation and enjoyment in eating. All foods can fit into a healthy, enjoyable eating pattern.