Eating Disorders - Learn the Facts
Did you know an estimated 24 million Americans suffer from an eating disorder? Eating disorders can affect both males & females, old & young, rich & poor, and people of any culture and race. You cannot tell by simply looking at someone if they are struggling internally. This week (Feb. 26, 2012 - Mar. 3, 2012) kicks off the 25th annual Eating Disorders Awareness Week, which is organized by the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA). The theme this year is "Everybody Knows Somebody: Join the Fight Against Eating Disorders." For more information and resources, click here to visit the NEDA website.
As a Registered Dietitian, I have been helping individuals work toward and maintain recovery from eating disorders for the past 10 years. Eating disorders can be extremely complex and require an immense amount of patience, support, and hard work to overcome, but it is possible. It is important to know the warning signs and encourage those struggling to work with a specialized treatment team, often including a therapist/psychologist (and in some cases a psychiatrist), medical physician, and registered dietitian all who have experience helping people with eating disorders.
For definitions on various types of eating disorders click here; for tips on prevention, check NEDA's website and this handout for ways to help challenge dieting behaviors and body dissatisfaction. NEDA's website is full of excellent information, including some of the health consequences of eating disorders, statistics, tips for talking to a friend who may be struggling, and factors that may contribute to eating disorders. There are also handouts to help promote and encourage a more positive body image, including self-acceptance and ways to view yourself.
Please take a few moments to review the information provided on these very important issues. Eating disorders are much more prevalent than many people realize. If we can increase awareness and help educate ourselves and others, early detection is possible. If you or someone you know would benefit from support, please do not hesitate to seek out the treatment that is so essential to recovery.
This post was written by Kristine Van Workum, Registered Dietitian and owner of Brevard Nutrition, Inc. Kristine provides outpatient nutrition counseling for groups and individuals to help manage a wide variety of medical conditions. She specializes in the treatment of eating disorders, weight management and sports nutrition. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 321-327-7948, or visit her website (www.brevardnutrition.com).
For weekly recipes and nutrition updates, become a fan of Brevard Nutrition on Facebook!
