Is there an increase in eating disorders as a result of the widespread use of the remote and hybrid working model and spending too much time at home?
Unfortunately, yes. We can say that eating disorders have increased at a certain rate because more time is spent at home under pandemic conditions.
These are mostly Anorexia nervosa, Bulimia nervosa, Orthorexia nervosa and binge eating disorders. In addition, an eating behavior disorder such as emotional eating is also common.
When we look at orthorexia nervosa (obsession with healthy eating);
Fear of consuming unhealthy foods in these individuals, avoiding a certain eating disorder without worry. Examples of situations such as not being able to give up on one's style and diet cycle, imposing food bans even though there is no health problem (For example, gluten, sugar, carbohydrates and fats), refraining from consuming foods prepared by others can be given as examples.
When we look at anorexia nervosa;
A very serious and rapid weight-muscle loss can be observed in these individuals, avoiding eating, counting calories, long-term hunger, exercising excessively, skipping meals, checking the energy table in packaged food ingredients.
When we look at bulimia nervosa;
In these individuals, there is a feeling of regret and intentional vomiting after eating too much and fast food. Not being able to have a comfortable and enjoyable meal in a social environment, feeling uneasy, hiding food and excessive water consumption can be seen.
Binge eating is; Inability to stop eating is observed. It can be defined as “losing control over eating”. Situations such as not being able to cope with the feeling of regret and guilt that come after binge eating or while eating, skipping meals, not consuming meals in a social environment and not being able to stop oneself before the packaged food is finished can be seen.
When we look at emotional hunger;
Emotional hunger is actually suppressing a feeling that is not shared or experienced with food. These individuals seek out a specific food. “Like chocolate-pasta or peanuts” and there is no alternative to these foods. The experienced hunger forces you to eat now. It is related to a problem you have with your boss, spouse, etc. n feeds. Hunger and satiety are not important in emotional hunger.
In which age range is eating disorder most common?
The most risky and common age range is young girls between the ages of 14-19. Most of the young people who want to seek counseling apply because of the weight gained during the pandemic and the changing eating behavior.
What are the psychological diseases caused by eating disorders?
What should be done to prevent?
Irregular Eating and eating disorders can affect anyone, regardless of gender identity, race, age, or socioeconomic status.
Trying to "do it right" when it comes to nutrition can be tempting, but it can backfire. If you're obsessed with your weight, feel guilty about your food choices, or routinely follow restrictive diets, consider consulting a psychiatrist, psychologist, and dietitian who works in psychodiet.
*The definitions written above are not for diagnostic purposes. You can consult your doctor for diagnosis.
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