BUL-I-MI-A EATING DISORDER IS DANGEROUS!

Eating disorders have been a serious issue in the U.S. for decades and are more common than people may think. Disorders such as anorexia and bulimia have been defined as psychological issues that lead to nutritional deficiencies which affect the overall health and mental state of a person. These deficiencies have a negative impact on the individual which makes them unable to recognize the condition of their health. 

There can be serious medical complications that accompany an eating disorder such as fatigue, depression, weakened immune system, weight gain, and malnutrition. Eating disorders along with obesity can effect overall life expectancy. Both these diseases also have low recovery rates, studies show, “For Anorexia and Bulimia recovery rates across all forms of treatment are only about 50% at best” (Norton). It’s also stated that, “For those who are obese, or overweight, the failure rate is even higher, in as much as 95% percent of all those who try to lose weight by dieting alone fail” (Norton). This is mostly because the drugs and therapy recovering patients are subjected to focus on how to eat instead of what to eat. There lies the mistake.

These days with our everyday lives being so hectic and busy it’s much easier to grab something quick and unhealthy than to take time preparing a nutritious meal. The downside to this is that these processed foods are empty nutrients that effect our bodies in negative ways. It’s been stated that, “You shouldn't gain weight or have health problems if you eat real food” (Saunders)



As the industrial food system adds more and more toxins into food the amount of eating disorders have seemed to increase. For example, it’s been shown that, “The majority of the damage from unnecessary food additives, insecticides and genetically modified (GMO) foods is to the hormones that regulate hunger and fat storage. One such hormone is Leptin” (Norton). This hormone has been seen to be too low in cases of bulimia and too high in cases of obesity and unless this hormone is restored to a normal amount there will be an increase chance of food addictions, cravings, sudden appetite loss, and an increased chance of relapse.

These disorders effect many people and many have stories to share about their journey to recovery and the true struggle of facing an eating disorder. Taryn is one of many stories. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QKEwRW_u5-8

The only chance this country has of putting an end to obesity and eating disorders is if we start eating healthier, cleaner, real food. Cleaner food means less damage to our bodies and a less likelihood of developing an eating disorder or relapsing after treatment for one. Cleaner foods will also lead to overall better health and a better eating experience in general which will make for healthier, happier lives across the U.S.

Sources
Norton, Dr. J. Renae. "The Connection between Eating Disorders, Obesity and Our Food Supply." Fooducate. N.p., 29 Apr. 2012. Web. 24 Nov. 2014.
Saunders, Raine. "Processed Food & Eating Disorders - A Product of Modern Society." Agriculture Society. N.p., 14 Dec. 2011. Web. 24 Nov. 2014.