![]() But current statistics show an increase in the number of males with eating disorders and an increase in the number of young individuals. According to research, many men do not seek treatment as eating disorders are perceived as stereotypically female diseases. Another common misconception is that only women suffer from them. However, the causes of these disorders are more complex, and recovery is not as simple as just letting go of certain unhealthy behaviours. One of the biggest misconceptions is that eating disorders are choices or lifestyles. There are many misconceptions about eating disorders in Mauritius that act as a barrier for people seeking treatment. Yet only one out of ten persons suffering from an eating disorder will seek and receive treatment. Among all mental illnesses, eating disorders have the most significant mortality rate. Eating disorders in MauritiusĪs seen above, if left untreated, eating disorders can lead to significant health consequences and could even result in death in severe cases. Depending on the items consumed, pica patients may be more prone to food poisoning, infections, stomach injuries, and nutritional deficits. For instance, they may need non-food items such as ice, mud, soil, chalk, soap, paper, hair, linen, wool, pebbles, laundry detergent, or corn-starch. Pica occurs when individuals consume items that are not classified as food and that are not part of their culture. ![]() Overweight or obesity is common in people with binge eating disorders. However, they do not control calories intake or engage in purging behaviours. Like bulimia, people with BED usually consume abnormally large amounts of food in relatively short periods and experience a loss of control during binges. In severe cases, bulimia can cause an imbalance in electrolyte levels, such as sodium, potassium, and calcium which, can even lead to a stroke or a heart attack. People with bulimia are afraid of gaining weight, despite being at a normal weight. ![]() Forcible vomiting, fasting, laxatives, diuretics, enemas, and extreme exercise are all examples of common purging behaviours. They may then feel guilty or powerless and attempt to purge to compensate for the calories ingested and alleviate gastrointestinal discomfort. Someone with bulimia usually eats until they are incredibly full as they may typically feel unable to stop eating or regulate how much they consume. Bulimia Nervosaīulimia Nervosa occurs when an enormous amount of food is consumed in a short period (binge eating) followed by purging. Research has found that individuals aged between 15 and 24 who have anorexia are ten times more likely to die than those same age. In severe cases of anorexia, it can even lead to heart, brain, multi-organ failure, and death. These attempts to manage their weight and figure may also interfere with their health and daily activities. They may perceive themselves as overweight even though their physical weight is much lower than usual. People with anorexia can therefore be distinguished by having an abnormally low weight and a strong desire to avoid gaining weight or overeating, if at all. Common types of eating disorders Anorexia NervosaĪnorexia nervosa can be defined by behaviours whose aim is to prevent weight gain, typically to the point of malnourishment. Many experts believe that a mix of genetic, physical, social, and psychological variables may all play a role in the onset of an eating disorder. The precise cause of eating problems is uncertain. Those suffering from eating disorders may exhibit symptoms with most compromising of extreme dietary restriction, food binges, or purging behaviours such as vomiting or over-exercising. ![]() Regardless of their age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and physical appearance, anyone can suffer from eating disorders. They are distinguished by changes in behaviours, beliefs, and attitudes around food, eating, and body weight or appearance. But what are eating disorders, what are the misconceptions about them that exist in Mauritian society and what are their consequences?Įating disorders are a group of mental and physical conditions characterised by unhealthy eating habits that have a detrimental influence on people’s health, emotions, and capacity to perform in crucial areas of life. Unfortunately, in Mauritius, individuals with eating disorders may endure additional stress and obstacles due to stigma. They are mental health disorders that are complex and that usually necessitate the involvement of health professionals to change their trajectory. Even if there is the word “eating” in the term “eating disorders”, the term is much more than food.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |