Millions of young women and men in the U.S. struggle with eating disorders such as anorexia, bulimia and binge eating disorder. Don't swallow the myths about eating disorders. Get the facts.
Myth: All people with eating disorders are stick-thin.
Fact: People who have anorexia become extremely thin. But not everyone who has an eating disorder is skinny. People who have bulimia or binge eating disorder may be thin, normal weight or even overweight.This can make it harder to spot the problem. Whatever they weigh, they still have an unhealthy relationship with food that can lead to serious health issues.
Myth: People with anorexia don't eat anything.
Fact: People with anorexia do eat, but they severely limit the amount and often the types of food they eat. For example, they may eat only low-calorie foods like lettuce and popcorn. They may avoid meat or anything that has fat in it.
Although people with anorexia do eat some food, they don't get the calories or the variety of nutrients they need to be healthy. That can lead to dangerous and even deadly heart, kidney, bone and brain damage.
Myth: Bulimia is not as dangerous as anorexia.
Fact: Fewer people die from bulimia than from anorexia, but it can still be deadly. People with bulimia overeat then purge. Purging may involve self-induced vomiting or the use of laxatives, diuretics or enemas. Purging can cause electrolyte imbalances, which can lead to irregular heart rhythms and sudden death. Excessive exercise and fasting can also pose serious health risks for people with bulimia.
Myth: Only teenage girls have eating disorders.
Fact: They are more common among girls and women, but a significant number of boys and men have eating disorders too. Those involved in sports that restrict weight (such as wrestling, gymnastics and ballet) may be at special risk.
Eating disorders often begin in the teens and twenties, but they can start at any age. Children as young as 8 years old have been diagnosed with eating disorders.
Myth: Eating disorders are not real mental disorders.
Fact: Eating disorders are complex psychiatric disorders. Doctors have specific criteria for diagnosing them. It would be a serious mistake to dismiss an eating disorder as a stunt to get attention or as normal teenage dieting.
People with eating disorders become obsessed with their weight. This leads them to do things that can harm their health. They need treatment to overcome their unhealthy habits.
People with eating disorders often have other problems such as anxiety disorders, depression and substance abuse. These need to be treated along with the eating disorder.
Myth: The best strategy is to ignore an eating disorder.
Fact: You wouldn't ignore a serious disease, and you shouldn't ignore an eating disorder. If the person doesn't get help, a curable illness could turn into a lifelong problem or become life-threatening.
If you see warning signs of an eating disorder, speak up. The person may become defensive and angry. But you have to let him or her know you are worried.
Be prepared to talk calmly and listen carefully. Explain why you're concerned. Try not to place blame, and avoid talking about food or eating behaviors. Offer information and resources, and urge the person to see a doctor or mental health professional. To find help in your area, call the National Eating Disorders Association Information and Referral Helpline at 800-931-2237.
