Overview

Eating disorders can be categorized into three of the most prevalent types (anorexia nervosa, bulimia, and binge eating disorder), however further subtypes do exist which are more rare. These often come under the heading of Eating Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (EDNOS).

Anorexia Nervosa

Anorexia sufferers constrict their food intake to such an extent that their weight remains at a dangerously low level. Symptoms include:

-rapid weight loss

-obsession with food/weight

-withdrawal from usual social activities

-excessive exercising

-trying to hide eating habits from friends and family

-depression

-weakness and/or fainting

-loss of menstrual cycle in females 

Despite common stereotypes, anorexia can affect anyone, however around 90% of sufferers are female (BEAT). The onset can vary, although it is most prevalent in teenagers. According to the Royal College of Psychiatrists, one 15 year old girl in every 150, and one 15 year old boy in every 1000 are affected by anorexia.

Bulimia

Sufferers follow a binge/purge cycle where they will eat large quantities of food and then force themselves to vomit in order to get rid of unwanted calories. Signs are similar to that of anorexia, but also can include:

-weight fluctuations

-secretive behaviour

-dental problems

-hoarding/stealing food 

According to the rcpsych website, approximately 4 out of 100 women will suffer from bulimia at one point in their lives.

Binge Eating Disorder

This is similar to bulimia in the sense that the sufferer will binge on large quantities of food, however they will not make themselves vomit. Symptoms can include:

-weight gain

-eating alone/secretly

-loss of confidence

-lack of control around food/eating when not hungry

EDNOS

This covers a range of destructive eating habits and includes:

Othorexia: which concerns an obsession with the type of food eaten (ie. only healthy foods may be consumed).

Prader Willi Syndrome: This has no psychological causes and is purely genetic. The condition is present in early childhood and involves excessive eating. It is also accompanied by learning difficulties.