Eating Disorders: Anorexia, Bulimia & Binge Eating Disorder
Eating disorders are serious psychological conditions that affect how a person thinks about food, body weight, and self-image. They are most commonly seen in young individuals—especially girls—who are exposed to unrealistic body standards or have faced body shaming in the past. Without proper care, eating disorders can cause long-term health issues and even life-threatening complications.
The most common types of eating disorders are Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, and Binge Eating Disorder. If you or a loved one is struggling, professional help is available. At her clinic, Dr. Anjalika Atrey, a leading psychiatrist in Juhu, Mumbai, offers specialized eating disorder treatment in Juhu with a holistic approach.
Anorexia Nervosa
Anorexia Nervosa is most frequently seen in young girls and teenagers, especially those involved in activities like skating, gymnastics, or ballet, where strict body image standards are emphasized.
Causes and Triggers:
- Strict family or cultural expectations to look a certain way.
- Past history of being overweight or obese.
- Constant body shaming or criticism about appearance.
Symptoms:
- Extreme fear of gaining weight, even when underweight.
- Avoiding food by throwing it away, hiding it, or refusing to eat despite family pressure.
- Severe weight loss leading to hormonal imbalances.
- Menstrual cycles stopping, thyroid dysfunction, and protein deficiency.
- Weak immunity, frequent illnesses, and fatigue.
- Compulsive exercising – walking after every meal, crunches, or constant physical activity.
- Distorted body image – no matter how thin, the person still believes they are “fat.”
- Risk of depression and self-harm.
In anorexia, there is no “limit” to weight loss—the cycle continues until medical and psychological intervention is provided.
Bulimia Nervosa
Bulimia Nervosa involves cycles of overeating followed by compensatory behaviors to prevent weight gain.
Symptoms:
- Episodes of consuming large quantities of food.
- Feelings of guilt or shame after binge eating.
- Self-induced vomiting, misuse of laxatives, or over-exercising.
- Fluctuating weight.
- Dental and throat damage from frequent vomiting.
Binge Eating Disorder
Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is one of the most common eating disorders and affects both men and women. Unlike bulimia, there is no purging afterward.
Symptoms:
- Eating large amounts of food in a short time.
- Eating even when not hungry.
- Eating in secrecy due to embarrassment.
- Feeling guilt, shame, or sadness after binge eating.
- Weight gain and obesity-related health problems.
Binge eating often occurs as a coping mechanism during stress or unpleasant emotional experiences.
Eating Disorder Treatment in Juhu
If left untreated, eating disorders can damage both mental and physical health. The good news is that with timely psychiatric intervention, recovery is possible.
At her clinic, Dr. Anjalika Atrey provides comprehensive eating disorder treatment in Juhu, which includes:
- Counseling and psychotherapy to address root emotional triggers.
- Nutritional guidance to develop healthy eating patterns.
- Medical support for managing hormonal, thyroid, or immunity-related complications.
- Family therapy to create a supportive environment at home.
Her personalized treatment approach helps patients rebuild self-confidence, correct distorted body image, and recover from harmful eating patterns.
Conclusion
Eating disorders such as Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, and Binge Eating Disorder are not just about food—they are complex mental health conditions that require expert care. If you are searching for effective eating disorder treatment in Juhu, consult Dr. Anjalika Atrey – Psychiatrist in Juhu, Mumbai, for compassionate, specialized, and result-oriented treatment.
