Eating disorders are the conditions defined by irregular eating habits. The person who has the disorder usually suffers from either a great compulsion to eat or does not want to eat at all. However, as simple as it sounds, eating disorders can cause great damage to both, physical and emotional wellbeing. If left untreated, it may even cause death. The causes of eating disorders may prove significant in their treatment process though. And, the research is currently on to determine the possible causes.
There are several types of eating disorders, three of the most common ones include Bulimia Nervosa, Anorexia Nervosa and Binge Eating. Each of these three has its own set of causes. Other disorders also include Rumination, Pica, Hyperphagia etc. Anorexia Nervosa for example is typically associated with body image and typically affects more women than men.
The condition usually affects people obsessed with getting the “ideal” figure. And to obtain the ideal body type, people get into irregular food habits and make up for any supposed indulgence by vomiting, excessive exercise, taking diuretic pills and laxatives in great quantities. This kind of a disorder has very severe effects on the stomach, the digestive system and the esophagus. Bulimia is also caused by similar reasons although the symptoms are different.
However, these are very simplified reasons which are said to trigger off eating disorders. However, to truly understand them, the researchers have been looking into other factors as well such as genetics, personalities, bio chemistries and environment. For example, the personality types are usually similar of people who are afflicted with these disorders. They share common traits of low self esteem, feelings of helplessness and a shared paranoia of becoming fat.
In eating disorders, the eating patterns appear to be handling stress and feelings of anxiety. Genetic reasons are also present as certain eating disorders appear to be within families. The female relatives are the most affected in this case. This genetic factor may very well predispose people to getting eating disorders. Also people who have to work in stressful environments may also be prone to becoming victims of these disorders. Particular professions may also trigger eating disorders such as modeling, dancing, wrestling etc which focus on weight.
There are some incidents, though, where eating disorders may be triggered by intolerances to certain foods. But whatever be the causes of eating disorders, the most important thing to remember is to get adequate treatment so that the disease may not turn fatal.
