Eating disorder

 

Anyone in the population can be affected by  an eating disorder, according to Health Canada.

It was reported those who are most susceptible to the disease experience low self-esteem, depression and anxiety. Genetics may also play a role in this mental illness.

 

According to the Canadian Mental Health Association an eating disorder is a mental illness that affects the way an individual feels about food, as well as the way a person feels about their body.

 

Nicole Boulanger is a registered dietitian at the Bulimia Anorexia Nervosa Association. She said there are many ways an eating disorder can impact the body.

 

“Someone with Anorexia Nervosa is someone who’s going to be very under weight. They can have electrolyte abnormality and bradycardia which is low blood pressure. Often women will lose their period. They can also have fertility issues as well. It can affect the bones eventually, which can turn to osteoporosis. If you are under eating your metabolism slows down,” said Boulanger.     

 

The National Eating Disorder Information Centre defines Anorexia Nervosa as an eating disorder described as not  being able to maintain normal body weight and intense fear of becoming obese. people fast and exercise excessively. Some of the short term effects, like using laxatives can cause fecal incontinence, an inability to hold fecal matter which can become a long term effect .

Bulimia Nervosa is defined as overeating, purging and self-induced vomiting.

 

Dana Dupuis is a clinical intake specialist at the Bulimia Anorexia Nervosa Association. She has advice for people who know someone suffering with an eating disorder.

“knowing where to get services in the community, not blaming the person for having an eating disorder and encourage them to get help,” said Dupuis.

 

Boulanger said some warning signs of individuals with an eating disorder are preoccupation with weight gain or loss, concern about calories and placing high restriction on certain food products. Boulanger said the sooner someone is diagnosed with an eating disorder the sooner they can get help. She also said eating disorders can affect both men and women.

 

For more information visit the Bulimia Anorexia Nervosa Association website. BANA provides specialized treatment for eating disorders and health promotion. the latest statistics show 1.5 percent of canadian aged 15- 14 years had an eating disorder and one in three men had an eating disorder aged 12-18 according to statistics Canada