What is anorexia?

Anorexia is a type of eating disorder. People who have anorexia don't eat enough to stay at a normal weight. Sometimes they also exercise too much. They do these things because they're so afraid of gaining weight. They believe that they're fat, even when they're thin. Often they think that losing even more weight will solve their problems and make their lives better.

If you have anorexia, it can really harm your health. This is because your body doesn't get the nutrition it needs. The first step to controlling the problem is admitting that something is wrong. Then counseling can help you change how you think about food, the way you see your body, and any other emotional issues. It may take months or years, but you can recover from anorexia.

Anorexia almost always begins with a strict weight-loss diet. Over time, strictly limiting foods leads to weight loss that isn't healthy and malnutrition.

As malnutrition sets in, the brain and metabolism change. This limits the appetite and how your body uses food. It also limits your ability to think clearly and make good decisions. As the illness gets worse, behaviors that aren't rational begin. You might make rules about food or make yourself vomit out of fear of gaining weight.

Starvation and malnourishment from anorexia can cause other problems. These include osteoporosis or an irregular heartbeat. Often other mental health conditions occur along with anorexia, such as depression.

After anorexia starts, a return to normal eating is very hard without help. Early treatment offers the best chance to recover. Some people will need treatment at an inpatient clinic. People who have anorexia tend to strongly deny that they have a problem. So most often, their loved ones have to get help for them.

People who have anorexia weigh much less than is healthy or normal. They think they are overweight even when they are very thin. Their lives become focused on controlling their weight. They may obsess about food, weight, and dieting. And they may strictly limit how much they eat.

Because anorexia is a physical and emotional problem, you may work with a doctor, a dietitian, and a counselor. Treatment can help you get back to a healthy weight, learn good eating habits, and learn to feel better about yourself. If your weight has dropped too low, you'll need treatment in a hospital.

There is no single test that can diagnose anorexia. But anorexia has a visible effect on your health and eating habits. If anorexia is suspected, your doctor will compare your weight with the expected weight for someone of your height and age. He or she will also check for signs of malnutrition or starvation.

Experts don't really know what causes anorexia. But it may be due to a mix of genetics, family behaviors, social factors, and personality traits. For example, you may be more likely to have anorexia if someone in your family has it or if you do a sport that stresses body size, like gymnastics.

Anorexia is a type of eating disorder. People who have anorexia have an intense fear of gaining weight. They severely limit the amount of food they eat and can become dangerously thin. Anorexia usually starts in the teen years. It's more common in females than males.