Conditions and Terms Regarding Disordered Eating, Eating Disorders & Eating Behaviors

Lindsay Ford, MS, RD

This piece isn’t meant to define or diagnose anyone.  It is simply meant to provide information and awareness to you, the reader. For those with diagnosed or undiagnosed eating disorders, a comprehensive treatment team approach is optimal and advised (i.e., therapist, dietitian, psychiatrists, etc.). Those with diagnosed eating disorders are most likely not choosing to have an eating disorder as well as other co-occurring conditions most likely present itself (e.g., depression). Please seek the resources found at the very end if more information is needed.  

DISORDERED EATING = Those with disordered food and eating behaviors, regardless of whether they fit the diagnostic criteria for an eating disorder, often feel anxiety around food.  These individuals may track daily food intake down to the calorie or specific nutrients in a more obsessive manor. Those with disordered eating may exercise obsessively at the gym or avoid social situations in which food is available.  Disordered eating is present when an individual engages in abnormal eating patterns or food behaviors on a regular basis. This does not generally apply to those with specific food intolerances or health problems or those who have no choice but to adhere to a certain nutrition protocol (e.g., Celiac Disease).  People who turn to disordered eating often do so to cope with uncomfortable emotions or stress. Additionally, those with disordered eating patterns may overly focus on weight and calorie intake. This can be a way to control or distract from other areas of their lives in which they feel inadequate, or with the idea that reaching their goal weight will finally make them happy.  

BINGE-EATING DISORDER = Binge-eating disorder (BED) is a severe, life-threatening, and treatable eating disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of eating large quantities of food (often very quickly and to the point of discomfort); a feeling of a loss of control during the binge; experiencing shame, distress or guilt afterwards; and not regularly using unhealthy compensatory measures (e.g., purging) to counter the binge eating.  It is the most common eating disorder in the United States as 1 in 35 individuals have BED. Overeating is not the same as a binge-eating episode. Treatment for BED is easier said than done; however, following a non-restrictive meal plan with individualized boundaries is typically supportive for those with BED. In regards to overall treatment,it is extremely important to prioritize identifying triggers and practicing healthy coping mechanisms versus relying on food to cope with stress, anxiety, depression, sadness, etc.

COMPULSIVE EATING = Compulsive eating is not a diagnosis yet it may present itself among various eating disorders, including Binge-Eating Disorder. This eating behavior typically describes someone that eats “compulsively” or impulsively throughout an extended period of time (e.g., throughout the day). One that engages in compulsive eating may feel out of control, similar to a binge-eating episode. Night-time eating, eating beyond satiety and fullness and eating in isolation may be connected with compulsive eating.

ORTHOREXIA NERVOSA = The term ‘orthorexia’ was developed in 1998 and is referring to an obsession with proper or ‘healthful’ eating.  Having an awareness and concern with the nutritional quality of food consumed isn’t necessary a problem; however, those with Orthorexia become so fixated on ‘healthy eating’ that it may actually damage their well-being and health.  As of right now, the treatment for Orthorexia is similar to those diagnosed with Anorexia Nervosa and/or Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Increasing the variety of food and exposure to unsafe or fear-related foods are important to factor in as well as ensuring adequate weight restoration is considered.

ANOREXIA NERVOSA =  This eating disorder is a psychological and life-threatening eating disorder. Most individuals with anorexia will present at very low body weights with little fat stores on the body as well as other signs and symptoms of malnutrition (e.g., hair loss, osteoporosis, body coldness).  The fear of weight gain, fear of various foods and the obsession with movement are extremely common. Additionally, those with anorexia most likely perceive their body differently than reality.  Treatment for Anorexia Nervosa is typically very comprehensive as it includes medical, nutritional and therapeutic modalities.

BULIMIA NERVOSA = This eating disorder presents itself in many different ways as those with Bulimia will engage in behaviors that compensate for food consumed (e.g., excessive exercise, purging, extreme fasting).  Individuals diagnosed with Bulimia may present at various body weights and isn’t always connected to being underweight. Common underlying variables include history of abuse or trauma, stressful life transitions, poor self-esteem and activities or careers that focus on appearance or performance.  Like other eating disorders, Bulimia Nervosa can be life-threatening. Treatment for Bulimia is typically very comprehensive as it includes medical, nutritional and therapeutic modalities.  

ANOREXIA ATHLETICA = Even though this isn’t a clinically recognized diagnosis, Anorexia Athletica is a condition for those that over-exercise to the point that fulfilling exercise goals takes on more importance than other essential things in life.  Unfortunately, exercise is used to control body shape and weight as well as providing a heightened sense of confidence, control, self-respect and power. Compulsive exercising can have serious health consequences. Typically, those with AA are most likely unwilling to miss a single workout such as taking time off work, school and relationships to exercise.  Treatment may require intensive medical care as well as prioritizing nutritional and therapeutic care.

NUTRITION FOR ACTIVE LIFESTYLES = Nutrition for those with active lifestyles are seeking nutritional guidance for enhancing performance, optimal recovery and increased energy levels.  These individuals are most likely consistently on the move, training for a specific event and/or are training for sport. Disordered eating and eating disorders should be a part of the assessment process as well as being addressed throughout one’s seasonal training.  

CHRONIC DIET FATIGUE = There is no true definition.  One that has engaged in countless diets and weight control measures can characterize Chronic Diet Fatigue (CDF).  One that can relate to CDF most likely feels physically and mentally exhausted from consistent restriction and food rebellion.  These individuals have yet to find a sustainable nutrition approach that prevents extreme eating behaviors.

RESOURCES

The National Eating Disorder Association - https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/

Eating Disorders Screening Tool - https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/screening-tool

Helpline - https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/help-support/contact-helpline

The International Association Of Eating Disorders Professionals Foundation  - http://www.iaedp.com/  

Eating Disorder Hope – www.eatingdisorderhope.com  

Anorexia Athletica - https://www.recoveryranch.com/resources/eating-disorders/symptoms-anorexia-nervosa-anorexia-athletica/  

Sport, Cardiovascular and Wellness Nutrition - https://www.scandpg.org/nutrition-info/disordered-eating-professional-resources/