Eating disorders (ED) are complex, dangerous illnesses. There are many different types of eating disorders, the most common including Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, and Binge Eating Disorder (BED) (1). Although these disorders share similarities, many differences distinguish these illnesses.
Anorexia Nervosa
Anorexia Nervosa is characterized by low body weight from malnourishment. A person suffering from anorexia may have an intense fear of gaining weight or a distorted perception of their weight which motivates them to portion food, restrict their intake, purge after meals, or weigh themselves repeatedly (2). Symptoms can include fatigue, dizziness or fainting, dehydration, hair loss, swelling of the arms or legs, and an absence of menstruation (3).
Bulimia Nervosa
Bulimia Nervosa is another type of eating disorder in which people will binge, or eat large amounts of food in one sitting, then purge, or get rid of the food in unhealthy ways (3). People with bulimia often have a fear of gaining weight, feel a loss of control during binge eating, and may experience mood swings, fainting, dehydration, and muscle weakness (4).
Binge Eating Disorder (BED)
BED is characterized by chronic, compulsive overeating in which a person consumes large quantities of food in a short period of time and feels as if they cannot stop (5). Signs may include eating in secret, eating fast or to the point of discomfort, hoarding and stashing food, and feeling guilt or shame about binge eating (5).
Can someone with a larger body have an eating disorder?
Yes! Anyone can suffer from an eating disorder or disordered eating, regardless of body shape or size. Eating disorders are not exclusive to skinnier bodies and are just as real and harmful to those in larger bodies.
Can I tell if someone has an ED by looking at them?
No. EDs look different for everyone, and not everyone with an ED is underweight. People can have an ED at any weight, and many people will fluctuate in weight also.
Do EDs only impact women?
No! EDs do not discriminate against gender or sex. Around 25% of individuals who present for ED treatment are male (6). The stigma around eating disorders can prevent men from receiving the help they need.
Are EDs always about food?
No! While EDs are often characterized by an obsession with weight, calories, or body shape, many different factors, such as biological, social, and psychological elements, play a role in ED development. Many EDs are rooted in the attempt to control an aspect of life. Because of this, simply telling loved ones to “eat more” or “eat less” is not always helpful for someone struggling with an ED.
About eating disorders: Types, signs, and treatment. The Emily Program. (2024, June 28). https://emilyprogram.com/eating-disorders-we-treat/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=dynamic&utm_keyword=&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwyo60BhBiEiwAHmVLJUdSGcw_Aho2mCSiCso62o2pCBDXtT1waSgh3HEAOFAj6FY41PENgxoC4XoQAvD_BwE
Anorexia nervosa treatment, symptoms & cause. The Emily Program. (2024, June 28). https://emilyprogram.com/eating-disorders-we-treat/anorexia-nervosa/
Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2018, February 20). Anorexia nervosa. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/anorexia-nervosa/symptoms-causes/syc-20353591
Bulimia nervosa: Symptoms, causes & prevention. Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9795-bulimia-nervosa
Binge eating disorder. Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17652-binge-eating-disorder
Eating disorder facts & myths. Eating Recovery Center. (2020, September 2). https://www.eatingrecoverycenter.com/resources/eating-disorder-facts-myths Assessed and Endorsed by the MedReport Medical Review Board