From bulimia to anorexia nervosa: Recognize the different kinds of eating disorders in kids

Children of all ages can suffer from eating disorders, though the frequency and particular forms of eating disorders can differ. Adolescence is typically regarded as a time when eating disorders are most likely to develop. The age range most frequently impacted by eating disorders is mid-to-late adolescence, with the 15–18 age range having the highest incidence, according to research.

During adolescence, the following are major risk factors for eating disorders:

Puberty and physical changes: Adolescence is characterized by substantial hormonal and physical changes. In addition to the physical changes that come with puberty, the pressure to meet social standards of beauty can also lead to body dissatisfaction and the emergence of eating disorders.

Social influences: During adolescence, peer relationships and cultural expectations are very important. Teenagers may have a greater focus on appearance, weight, and body image due to their increased susceptibility to peer pressure and media messages.

Identity formation: Adolescence is a time of discovering and developing one’s identity. To deal with stress, anxiety, or a need for control, people may resort to coping mechanisms, such as disordered eating.

Although eating disorders can develop in children as early as six years old, the prevalence is lower in this age range. It is crucial to remember, though, that eating disorders with an early onset can have serious repercussions and may call for specialized treatment.

All age groups should be the focus of prevention and early intervention initiatives, with a focus on fostering positive relationships with food, addressing emotional well-being, and promoting healthy body image. Teachers, parents, caregivers, and medical professionals are essential in fostering supportive environments and spotting warning signals early.

As a nutritionist and dietitian at Motherhood Hospitals in Kharghar, Mumbai, Dr. Arti Singh says it’s critical to approach the understanding of eating disorders from a holistic standpoint, acknowledging that these disorders can affect people of different ages, backgrounds, and gender identities. Effective treatment of eating disorders and the promotion of long-term recovery necessitate early intervention and comprehensive care.

Children who are malnourished are more likely to get sick because they typically have weakened immune systems. They have an increased risk of developing specific chronic health issues. Among them are:

later-life bone thinning (osteoporosis).
diseases of the heart and blood vessels (cardiovascular). Eating a lot of fat, sugar, and salt as a child raises the risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) in later life.
diabetes type 2. This condition is associated with being overweight, not exercising, and having a family history of type 2 diabetes in children.
Certain breathing problems, such as asthma in children who are overweight.
Children who are overweight run the following risks:

Liver issues.
issues with leg bone growth or hip development.
kidney stones.
early onset of puberty.
syndrome of polycystic ovary. This hormone imbalance can lead to various health issues, including irregular periods in girls.
Pediatricians screen kids for these health issues on a regular basis.

Dwarfed body images, compulsive attention to food and weight, and irregular eating patterns are hallmarks of eating disorders, which are complicated mental health conditions. Any age, gender, or background can be affected by these conditions, which frequently have serious physical and psychological repercussions. The various forms of eating disorders, their probable causes, typical symptoms, and available treatments will all be covered in this article.

categories of eating disorders
Anorexia nervosa: Those who suffer from this disorder frequently have a skewed perception of their bodies and an extreme fear of gaining weight.
They might take part in behaviors such as severe calorie restriction, excessive exercise, and others to reach and keep an unhealthyly low body weight.
Thin hair, brittle nails, and a variety of gastrointestinal and cardiovascular problems are typical physical symptoms.
Anorexia nervosa:
Episodes of binge eating are typical of bulimia nervosa, and they are usually followed by compensatory behaviors like vomiting, overdoing it on exercise, or fasting.
Bulimia sufferers may maintain a relatively normal weight, making it difficult to identify the illness just by looking at a person’s physical attributes.
Frequent episodes of purging and bingeing can cause gastrointestinal disorders, dental problems, and electrolyte imbalances.
Binge eating disorder (BED): During an episode of binge eating disorder, a person may consume large amounts of food quickly and may also lose control of themselves.
People with BED, in contrast to those with bulimia, do not participate in compensatory behaviors that result in weight gain and related health issues.
Episodes of binge eating are frequently followed by emotional distress, guilt, and shame.
reasons why people get eating disorders
There are many different aspects to eating disorders, and a number of factors can lead to their development. Typical causes include some of the following:

biological elements
Genetic predisposition: People who have an eating disorder family history may be at higher risk.
Neurotransmitter imbalances: Changes in dopamine and serotonin levels in the brain may be the cause.
psychological aspects
low self-worth and dissatisfaction with one’s body.
Perfectionism and the pressure from society to meet predetermined body standards.
coping strategies for emotional challenges, stress, or trauma.
Environmental elements
social influences, such as how body image and beauty standards are portrayed in the media.
Cultural perspectives on food, beauty, and weight.
events that occurred in childhood, like abuse or bullying.
Eating disorder symptoms
Early intervention for eating disorders depends on identifying their symptoms. Typical signs and symptoms consist of:

drastic variations in weight.
obsession with diets, food, or one’s appearance.
regular changes in eating patterns.
overindulgence in physical activity.
abandonment of social interactions.
emergence of customs related to eating.