Focus should be on fueling our bodies

There are many health problems that affect mental or physical health, but anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and other eating disorders affect both, making their cure extremely difficult.

They threaten the lives of 20 million women and 10 million men in the United States, according to a 2011 study. Other research found that anorexia nervosa has the highest mortality rate of any psychiatric disorder.

Tragically, eating disorders can begin at age six and are not just conditions of youth; even senior citizens can be affected.

Signs that someone is suffering from anorexia include rapid weight loss, risk of starvation, denial of low weight, excessive concern about body appearance, intensive exercise regimen, eating rituals and a focus on food.

Bulimia is no less harmful, but a person’s weight is not necessarily an indicator. Instead, a person experiences cycles of uncontrollable eating followed by vomiting, use of laxatives and other measures to rid a body of food. This can cause teeth staining, rupture of the esophagus, pancreatitis and other serious problems. Muscle wasting and fatigue, dehydration, heart failure and suicide are problems of both disorders.

Why do people experience eating disorders? Factors include depression, anxiety, relationship problems, traumatizing events, genetics, having someone in the family with an eating disorder, loneliness and history of abuse. Also contributing is societal pressure to be lean and muscular. We tend to reinforce these shallow values when we greet people, often saying something like, “You look great,” rather than saying something like, “It’s great to see you!”

Instead of dwelling on weight, we need to focus on fueling our bodies with healthy foods like vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans, peas, lentils, lean animal sources of protein, nuts and seeds. See the salad recipe for an example.

People suffering from anorexia and bulimia need professional help. Early intervention is consistently associated with higher recovery rates, so if you are experiencing problems or you suspect that someone is suffering from either disorder, go to myneda.org or call 800-931-2237. You can also talk to a trusted adult, counselor or health professional. Locally, help is available from the Recovery and Wellness Center of Eastern Washington.

Treatment involves psychotherapy or counseling, medical treatment and nutrition education. It can take place in hospitals, residential care facilities and outpatient clinics, depending upon each individual’s needs. Although people and families dealing with these problems often feel shame or guilt, as with all mental and physical health problems, no one is to blame and everyone can take a role in ensuring that those who are suffering get well.

This story was originally published April 13, 2016 at 6:23 AM with the headline "Focus should be on fueling our bodies."