Disordered eating behavior

Eating disorders — are a group of psychophysiological disorders in which the relationship to food, the body, and control over it is distorted.

These conditions are not limited to “improper nutrition” — they reflect deep psychological and biochemical disturbances that affect all systems of the body. Both physical health and emotional well-being, self-esteem, and quality of life are compromised.

Main types of eating disorders

The most common types include:

• Anorexia nervosa: a person consciously restricts their food intake, fears gaining weight even when severely underweight. Body perception is distorted, leading to protein, vitamin, and electrolyte deficiencies, and impairing the function of the heart, kidneys, and hormonal system;
• Bulimia nervosa: alternating episodes of uncontrollable overeating and compensatory behaviors (inducing vomiting, taking laxatives, fasting). Hormonal and electrolyte imbalances develop, affecting teeth, the gastrointestinal tract, and the cardiovascular system;
• Binge eating disorder: consuming excessive amounts of food, especially sweets and fatty foods, without feeling hungry. This leads to obesity, insulin resistance, inflammatory processes, and depression;
• Orthorexia: an obsessive pursuit of “healthy eating,” which over time turns into obsessive behavior that restricts normal social life and leads to nutrient deficiencies;
• Restrictive diets and cycles of “fasting — binge eating”: typical with constant weight control and stress. They disrupt hormonal balance and normal appetite mechanisms.

Causes of eating disorders

Factors contributing to the development of disorders can be divided into several groups:

• psychological — low self-esteem, perfectionism, anxiety, need for control or recognition;
• social — pressure from beauty standards, the cult of the “ideal body,” comparisons on social media;
• biochemical — disruption of serotonin, dopamine, cortisol, leptin, and ghrelin regulation;
• genetic and familial — hereditary predisposition, family behavior patterns;
• cultural — attitudes towards food, weight, and body in a specific environment or profession (sports, fashion, ballet).

Physiological and psychological consequences

Eating disorders affect the entire body:

• hormonal disruptions — impaired function of the adrenal glands, thyroid, and reproductive organs;
• electrolyte disorders — deficiencies of potassium, magnesium, sodium, which can lead to arrhythmias and cramps;
• bone weakening (osteopenia, osteoporosis) due to protein, calcium, and vitamin D deficiencies;
• microbiota imbalance and damage to the gastrointestinal mucosa;
• mental disorders — depression, anxiety states, obsessive behavior, social isolation.

Treatment and recovery

Effective treatment requires a comprehensive approach and the involvement of several specialists — a psychotherapist, physician, nutritionist, and, if necessary, an endocrinologist.

• psychotherapy (cognitive-behavioral, gestalt, family) helps change destructive beliefs, learn to recognize emotions, and separate them from hunger;
• work on body image — forming an adequate perception of one’s body;
• nutritional rehabilitation — a gentle transition to regular meals, replenishing nutrient deficiencies (protein, B vitamins, magnesium, omega-3, zinc);
• normalization of sleep, reduction of stress levels, avoidance of excessive diets and stimulants (caffeine, nicotine);
• support from loved ones and participation in therapeutic groups — an important element in restoring self-esteem and confidence.

Prevention

• teaching children and adolescents a mindful attitude towards their body and nutrition;
• avoiding imposed diets and ideals of appearance;
• paying attention to the emotional reasons for overeating;
• supporting adequate sleep and rest, normalizing eating patterns.

Conclusion

Eating disorders — are not just a “matter of willpower,” but complex conditions that reflect stress, internal conflicts, and biochemical disruptions.

Early seeking of help, support from specialists and loved ones, and restoring nutritional and psychological balance can fully restore health and regain control over one’s body and life.