This week, February 22nd-27th, is the National Eating Disorders Awareness week. The media often glamorises anorexia nervosa and other eating disorders, as super thin models and celebrities sell magazines, but the truth is that anorexia has the highest mortality rate for any psychiatric condition.
Eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating and compulsive eating are complex and painful illnesses, rooted in psychological distress. Eating disorders are often kept secret by sufferers whose body weight, shape and size may remain stable, despite inner pain and turmoil.
1.6 million people in the UK are estimated to have an eating disorder and many of these are termed as having an Eating Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (EDNOS); you do not have to have the typical features of anorexia, bulimia, compulsive or binge eating to have an eating disorder.
Eating disorders arise from a variety of physical, emotional and social issues, all of which need to be addressed for effective prevention and treatment. Disordered eating causes many nutrient deficiencies and biochemical imbalances in the brain and body which need treating in order for any psychological work to be effective. If you think that your eating has become chaotic or disordered, talking to Emma may allow some of these imbalances to be identified; why not call Smart Nutrition during Eating Disorders Awareness Week on 01273 775480?
