EATING DISORDERS DEFINITION

Eating disorders are medical and psychological conditions that manifest as disturbed eating patterns. Some of the most common eating disorders are anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder.

Often trivialised as the "‘slimmers disease", eating disorders are not just about food but an outward sign of deep psychological and emotional turmoil, an unconscious attempt to avoid or control painful feelings.

The sooner treatment begins, the better as the disorder can become very entrenched. In severe cases it can even result in death.