Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions characterized by unhealthy eating behaviors and preoccupation with body image and weight. These disorders can lead to severe physical and emotional consequences. At Glodach Psychiatry & Integrative Health, we provide comprehensive treatment plans to support individuals in overcoming eating disorders and promoting a healthy relationship with food.

Types of Eating Disorders:

• Anorexia Nervosa: Characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight, leading to severe restriction of food intake, excessive weight loss, and distorted body image. Individuals may engage in extreme dieting, excessive exercise, or other behaviors to avoid weight gain.

• Bulimia Nervosa: Involves episodes of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors such as vomiting, excessive exercise, or laxative use to prevent weight gain. This cycle often results in severe emotional distress and physical health issues.

• Binge-Eating Disorder: Defined by recurrent episodes of consuming large quantities of food, often quickly and to the point of discomfort, accompanied by feelings of loss of control and guilt. Unlike bulimia, individuals with binge-eating disorder do not regularly engage in compensatory behaviors.

• Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID): Characterized by a persistent refusal to eat certain foods, leading to nutritional deficiencies and significant weight loss or failure to gain weight. This disorder is not driven by a desire for weight control but rather by sensory issues or a lack of interest in eating.

• Orthorexia: An unhealthy obsession with eating only “pure” or “healthy” foods, often leading to restrictive eating patterns and nutritional imbalances. Individuals with orthorexia may avoid certain foods or food groups based on perceived health benefits.