To eat or not to eat - A dangerous question
Being a teenager is at best problematic for many. Not only are they dealing with pressure from peers on a number of levels, but there are also hormonal changes and getting to terms with living in their own skin. And, according to experts, with this comes a set of dysfunctions that manifest in various ways.
One such manifestation is an eating disorder.
According to dieticians and nutrition gurus, “eating disorders are real, complex, and devastating conditions that can have serious consequences for health, productivity, and relationships. They are not a fad, phase or lifestyle choice. Eating disorders are serious, potentially life-threatening conditions that affect a person’s emotional and physical health.”
Many young people have 'gone on a diet' to lose weight at some time. Dieting is so common some people see it as a normal part of eating. Dieting is not the best way to lose weight. People often gain back all the weight they lost when they stop dieting, sometimes becoming heavier than they were before dieting. It can leave you feeling down and unsuccessful. For many vulnerable young people who feel anxious about their looks and body, dieting can be dangerous. They may feel they have failed if it is not successful. It can lead to more serious eating problems and increase their risk of developing an eating disorder.
In anorexia nervosa’s cycle of self-starvation for example, the body is denied the essential nutrients it needs to function normally. Thus, the body is forced to slow down all of its processes to conserve energy, resulting in:
- Abnormally slow heart rate and low blood pressure, which mean that the heart muscle is changing. The risk for heart failure rises as the heart rate and blood pressure levels sink lower and lower.
- Reduction of bone density (osteoporosis), which results in dry, brittle bones.
- Muscle loss and weakness.
- Severe dehydration, which can result in kidney failure.
- Fainting, fatigue, and overall weakness.
- Dry hair and skin; hair loss is common.
- Growth of a downy layer of hair—called lanugo—all over the body, including the face, in an effort to keep the body warm.
People struggling with an eating disorder need to seek professional help. The earlier a person with an eating disorder seeks treatment, the greater the likelihood of physical and emotional recovery.
Going through a tough time with an eating disorder? You can contact one of our experts and get some sound advice:
Rianne Rautenbach (fitness model and co-owner of Love your Life) Email: [email protected]
Shah Ashni (author and motivational speaker)
Danielle Roberts (registered dietician) Email: [email protected]