New Delhi, India: Eating disorders are mental health problems that have an impact on a person’s eating habits. Because these are psychological concerns, diagnosis is sometimes delayed until it is too late. Early detection of eating disorder signs and symptoms, on the other hand, can significantly lower the risk of prognosis and promote quick treatment. Unfortunately, some eating habits, no matter how harmful they are, have been normalised in a culture that has placed the mental health of many people at risk. It’s also exacerbated the problem of eating disorders.
Signs of disordered eating
Exercising at the expense of mental health: It is essential to exercise in order to maintain both mental and physical health. Even the healthiest things, however, can do harm to the body if they are not done correctly. Exercising too much, exercising when weary, and so on can be harmful to one’s mental health and should be avoided. It is also a symptom of an eating disorder and is used to lose weight quickly.
Forced fasting: Fasting is never a good strategy to reduce weight. The habit of eating ‘less’ has become commonplace, and it is now utilised as a means of losing weight. However, by denying the body of critical nutrients, this can lead to disordered eating and cause more harm than benefit.
Calorie memorization: Have you heard of the calorie game? It’s a popular yet troublesome game in which you have to list meals and predict their calorie amount. Counting calories is typically employed by people to avoid eating high-calorie items, therefore remembering calories might be an indication of an eating disorder.
Getting rid of certain food types from your diet: To operate effectively, your body need a variety of nutrients. Fats and carbohydrates, contrary to common perception, are equally as vital as protein and vitamins and should not be excluded from the diet. Food avoidance is an indication of disordered eating and should not be encouraged.
Sudden and evident changes in physical health: Sudden and visible changes in an individual’s physical health might be a symptom of health concerns. A physical examination can typically rule out the possibility of these consequences, but a psychological assessment is just as important as any changes that may occur as a result of an eating disorder. Acute weight loss, hair thinning, decreased skin condition, and other physical problems may occur.
