HUMNNTR 2210 Chapter Notes - Chapter 11: Extreme Weight Loss, Binge Eating, Disordered Eating
Document Summary
Disordered eating encompasses mild and short-term changes in eating patterns that occur as a result of life stress, illness, or a desire to change body weight. When carried to the extreme, disordered eating may progress to an eating disorder, in which severe changes in eating patterns have lasting and detrimental effects. Current research on the origins of eating disorders indicates that genetic factors dictate brain biology, which affects how certain individuals perceive their bodies and respond to life stresses. Thus, a person who is genetically predisposed to eating disorders may use disordered eating behaviors to cope with feelings of depression, anger, or guilt. The three main types of eating disorders are anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder. Anorexia nervosa is characterized by extreme weight loss, a distorted body image, and an irrational fear of weight gain and obesity. Weight loss is achieved primarily by restricting food intake.