Did you know that there are about 30 million Americans who suffer from eating disorders?
It can take control of your life and the lives of your loved ones. It often results in abuse and low self-esteem. If you see any early signs of an eating disorder in someone you know, it’s best to speak with them about your concerns.
If you’re wondering what are the causes of an eating disorder, keep reading. Here are some things to know about eating disorders before you seek help.
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Negative Body Image
Eating disorders are often caused by negative body image. This can be caused by a number of things, including media images that portray an unrealistic ideal body type and pressure from friends or family to be a certain weight. This also includes past experiences of being made fun of or ridiculed because of one’s weight.
Dieting and Other Food-Related Issues
Dieting and other food-related issues are often at the root of the problem. For some people, an obsession with food begins in childhood. They may see their parents dieting or obsessing over their own weight and decide that they need to do the same.
For others, it may develop in response to a major life event, such as a divorce or the death of a loved one. Traumatic experiences can also lead to trouble eating. People who have been sexually abused or who have witnessed violence may turn to food as a way to cope with their pain.
Genetics
There is a lot of debate surrounding the topic of genetics playing a role in eating disorders. Some professionals believe that genetics is a major contributing factor, while others believe that they are only a small part of the equation. There is no definitive answer, but there is certainly evidence that suggests genetics play a role.
For example, eating disorders tend to run in families. If someone in your family has it, you are more likely to develop one as well.
Additionally, identical twins are more likely to both have an eating disorder than fraternal twins. There may also be a link to chemical imbalances in the brain.
Stress
When a person experiences chronic and/or overwhelming stress, they may turn to food as a way to cope. This can lead to an eating disorder, such as anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating disorder. Stress can come from many sources, such as family, work, or personal relationships.
If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, please seek professional help. They can provide treatment by setting boundaries in eating disorder recovery. It can help develop a healthy relationship with food or set realistic goals for recovery.
Knowing the Causes of an Eating Disorder
There are many common causes of an eating disorder, but the most important thing to remember is that you are not alone. If you or someone you know is suffering from an eating disorder, please seek help from a qualified professional. With the right treatment, eating disorders can be overcome.
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