Disordered eating and eating disorders
There is a difference between disordered eating and eating disorders.
Disordered eating
Disordered eating includes eating patterns or weight modifying behaviours that are irregular, restrictive, inflexible, compulsive, or a combination of these. These patterns and behaviours are commonly found in diet trends that promote weight loss or a specific body shape or size. They can resemble an eating disorder; however, they are less frequent and not as severe.
Individuals who have unhealthy attitudes about their body, such as weight concerns and poor body image, are more likely to engage in disordered eating patterns and behaviours. Engaging in these patterns and behaviours for long periods of time can lead to nutritional deficiencies and impact physical and mental health.
Disordered eating behaviours and weight-loss practices are common risk factors for the development of eating disorders, which can impact mental, emotional, and physical health and well-being.
Prevent or reduce the risk of disordered eating by:
- having a positive body image and self esteem
- regularly eating a variety of foods
- being active for fun and for its physical and mental health benefits
- having good sleep hygiene
- building healthy connections with others
- being critical of media messages and challenging our society’s ideals about appearance
Eating disorders
Eating disorders are complex mental illnesses and are generally characterized by abnormal eating patterns, a strong fear of weight gain, and an intense preoccupation with body image (Anorexie et boulimie Quebec). Clinical diagnoses include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge-eating disorder, avoidant and restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), and other specified feeding or eating disorders. For more information on eating disorders, visit the National Eating Disorders Information Centre (NEDIC).
If you think you or someone you know has an eating disorder, help is available at the Regional Eating Disorders Program. This community-based, outpatient assessment and treatment program is available to residents of Northeastern Ontario. Offered through Health Sciences North’s Mental Health and Addictions Program, the eating disorders program offers services to children, adolescents, and adults (along with their families).
This item was last modified on October 3, 2024