Explaining Anorexia Nervosa

Anorexia Nervosa is an eating disorder where someone, especially females more so than males, has an intense fear of becoming fat. It is typical of a person with anorexia nervosa to think of themselves as fat. They also obsess over food and how much they are eating, and severely restrict foods.

Causes of Anorexia Nervosa

You can't blame any one cause for having this eating disorder. However, there are certain groups of people likely to get this disordered eating pattern. Some thoughts are:

Lifestyle expectations These girls that are ballerinas or into modeling have a certain high expectation of thinness.

Family expectations In families where the mother pushes thinness and believes that looks are everything, sometimes pressure their children into thinking that thin is the best.

Personality problems A person with disordered eating probably hates themselves a lot. They may be depressed and feel that they must play the role of a perfect person in every role of life.

Symptoms of Anorexia

Self-induced vomiting
Taking laxatives and diuretics to get rid of additional food.
Abusing diet pills
Eating bird-sized portions
Exercising all the time and then getting on the scale over and over to see how much weight is lost.
Constantly weighing food and worrying about a portion size.
Distraction at mealtime putting off eating food on the plate.
A body image that they feel they are fat.

Consequences

The body with this eating disorder is not receiving nutrients or energy. As a result, the person becomes seriously ill over time since electrolytes in the blood are way out of kilter, along with other vitamin levels essential to health.

Brain function is effected deeply, and sometimes there are fainting spells along with poor memory. The hair thins out becoming brittle, and the heart rate becomes irregular with low blood pressure.

Other things that happen are that the muscles become very weak and the joints swell, causing fractures and bone breaking. This is because since the body has no nutrition to speak of, there is no calcium present like we all need.

The immune system breaks down since there are no vitamins in the body or vitamins from food for nourishment. Therefore, one cold after another is common.

Death can also occur if the behavior continues.

Treatment for Anorexia

To get well from Anorexia requires a team of doctors, nutritionists, and psychologists that work together to help the person with their physical and emotional issues. Treatment may also include antidepressants for depressive problems that the person is likely having.

Autor: Jennifer Kirkman Jennifer Kirkman
Level: Platinum
Jennifer Kirkman is a former piano teacher of 25 years of which she is now retired. Her new career has been in website building. She ... ...

Jennifer Kirkman is the owner of many websites, two of the main ones are http://www.diabetesandrelatedhealthissues.com, and also http://www.dietplansandweightloss.com. Visit these sites for much more information on diabetes and diabetes problems, and proper nutrition.

Added: June 30, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Male Anorexia - It's Not Just a Girl Thing

According to the latest research conducted in the U.S., among the eight million Americans suffering from anorexia, 7 million or roughly 90% of them are girls and women while 1 million or roughly 10% of them are boys and men. Strange to say that even though most anorexics are females, there are also males that suffer from this strange eating malpractice. Thus, it can be concluded that anorexia is not limited to the female population, but also can be a male problem as well.

There are several typical factors that may cause male anorexia. First among these several factors is the male's genetics. If there is a history within the immediate family of members suffering from anorexia, then the probability of developing this disorder increases. The more family members that have developed anorexia, the higher the chance is of other members acquiring it as well.

Second is the male's brain activity. The male's dopamine receptors are the parts that release the hormones from the brain for feelings of euphoria and pleasure, in order to regulate delight or satisfaction. Under eating results in over production of these hormones, that in turn makes the male anxious. In order to have continuous feelings of delight and enjoyment, males under nourish themselves.

Another factor that may cause male anorexia is the family itself. There is an emotional factor attributed to episodes of criticism oppression from fellow family members. There are parents that exaggerate their children's physical appearance. Because of this kind of pressure, anxiety and stress develop, especially in males. In order to relieve himself from these anxieties and stress factors, he will tend to under eat. As a result, male anorexia develops in the process.

Yet another considerable factor that may cause male anorexia is society. There are several cultural as well as social influences that may cause males to develop this disorder. Acceptance in society, portrayals of thin individuals on television and in advertisements coupled with the wide spread mentality of happiness being attained from being thin or skinny are considerations from society that affect a male's eating habits. Wanting to fit into society with the mindset of happiness will eventually lead the male into developing harmful eating habits that lead to male anorexia.

The best way to address the problem of anorexia among males is through proper education and self-esteem building and development. The anorexic must be taught of the complications that anorexia may bring together with the methodologies on how to prevent these complications. A gradual building of the foundation for the male's self-esteem is also needed in order for the patient to cope up with the factors that cause anorexia like the family and society. By having ample self-esteem, the patient will eventually develop the right eating habits and thus free himself from the dangerous anorexia eating disorder.

Autor: Mark Bridges

When seeking anorexia support for a loved one, you need a proven, complete program that works without the costly, ongoing medical bills. That's where Karen Phillips comes in. She saved her daughters life and she can do the same for you.
To learn more, click here NOW >> Anorexia-Bulimia Home Treatment Program

Added: June 28, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

I Can't Go Away to Treatment, I Have Children

One of the common reasons I hear for why a women can't go to treatment is they have children and they say I can't leave my family. This doesn't apply just too single head of household women this also applies to women who have very supportive husbands, partners, family and friends. After years of research and collecting data women feel guilt and shame that they failed and can't do everything. The idea that they have failed is foremost.

The most liberating experience anyone can have is to admit defeat. Only by admitting to themselves that a problem exists and they need help can they grow and move forward. The courage and strength it takes to make this decision is instrumentally in the process of recovery. Recovery from anything alcoholism, drug abuse, codependence, sex addiction, relationships and eating disorders requires awareness and the desire to change the behavior.

Children are like sponges they watch everything the adults in their life do and they emulate the behavior, words and actions. As a role model seeing a young child starve themselves or act out in anger is very upsetting yet the adult who has taught this behavior can change the course by changing themselves. Going to an inpatient treatment program is the very foundation required to change old behaviors into new healthy behaviors that change lives.

Using the excuse I can't leave my children is just that an excuse, if she is honest with herself, she knows that even though physically present the mind is elsewhere. The ways and means to obtain more of whatever substance or behavior he or she is using to not feel takes priority and the children suffer. In order to help her children she needs to commit to inpatient treatment program and get a new lease on life.

Autor: Joanna Painton

Joanna works for the Women's Behavioral Program. She has overcome adversities and shares her hope with anyone she comes in contact with. Joanna is a known published author in the Bariatric and Weight Loss Community, she has spent the last 13 years helping to inspire and motivate people on the value of the body, mind and spirit connection.

Please feel free to contact Joanna at http://www.womenstreatmentprogram.com or by e-mail joanna@recoveryconnection.org.

Added: June 26, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Overcoming Bulimia

Emotional eating affects so many of us but what you need to know is the there are darker sides of emotional eating and bulimia is one of them.

Bulimia is an eating disorder where a person consumes a huge amount of food and then attempts to purge it from their system by vomiting, taking laxatives or exercising excessively. The pattern itself can become addictive and despite promises made to oneself that each time will be the last time, the behavior continues. Bingeing and purging often leads to feelings of shame, guilt and self-hatred, not mention what it can do to your body and teeth.

I often tell emotional eaters that using food may provide a few moments of relief or comfort but it can never get you what you really need. And in the same way, purging might give you a symbolic feeling that you are wiping the slate clean or getting rid of something you don't want. But it can never take away the things that you are really trying to get rid of for example, anxiety, fear, regret, sadness, abuse, etc.

This week I interviewed a woman who struggled with bulimia for many years. I thought it would be good for you to hear, in her words, what her experiences were so that you might find some strength and hope on your own journey.

Q: How old were you when it started?

A: I started experimenting when I was about 15 and then really began when I was 17.

Q: How long did it go on for?

A: The worst of it was for about 6 years. After that it took years to stop all together. I probably didn't stop completely until my early thirties. I am now forty. As recent as two years ago I had a one time slip.

Q: How often did you binge and purge?

A: At first it was a few times a week and then every day. Then for a period of time it progressed to 3 times a day.

Q: Why did you binge and purge?

A: To escape my life. To not feel my feelings. To avoid conflicts. To express my anger (the only problem with that is that I took it out on myself because I was unable to express my anger to the appropriate people in my life). To hurt myself because I was used to being hurt and neglected. To repeat on some level the abuse I experienced as a kid. To numb myself. To think of nothing but food so that I would have some relief from emotional pain (I didn't realize though that it was causing another kind of pain). To attain perfection because I felt interminably not good enough. To control my environment. To attempt order because I grew up in an atmosphere of tremendous chaos. It gave me an illusion of control. To feel "clean." I felt dirty and bad. I was symbolically trying to rid my self of all the "bad" in me. To stay connected to my mother (She had an eating problem. She was very overweight) I didn't want to be fat like her. I was disgusted by her weight but I felt tied to her and scared to separate and our common obsession and fixation on food was something we could share. To feel masterful and good at SOMETHING. Because of very low self-esteem I was going to have a good body and be faultless in my eating. I could be perfect and not let one "bad" thing go in my body. If I ate something bad I'd get rid of it. To avoid my life and my career. A place to put all my time and energy. Feeling afraid and unable to pursue my dreams I needed something to absorb me.

Without emotional support in my life and with too much shame to share myself with others food was used for nurturance and self-soothing. It was something reliable that would always be there for me. It was a safe place to express want and need, I could take my fill of food. I could take all I wanted and not risk rejection. With people I felt like I wanted and needed too much. But with food I could take as much as I wanted or needed.

Q: Did you promise yourself each time that it would be the last?

A: Yes. Every time I swore to myself that I'd never do it again.

Q: How did you try to stop?

A: By avoiding "bad foods." By exercising thinking that if I felt fit and trim I wouldn't try to manage my weight with binging and purging (but it wasn't about weight. On the surface yes, but the truth is I wasn't even trying to lose weight). Also with psychotherapy and Overeaters Anonymous.

Q: What things were most effective in helping you stop?

A: Psychotherapy, more specifically a very loving therapist, body work, and yoga.

Q: What were some signs that you were getting better?

A: Curiosity and desire for things in the world. Less attention and focus on food and what and where and when I would eat. Eating too much and feeling a sense of acceptance instead of panic. Flexibility around food and being less rigid. Being open to more social situations where I wouldn't be able to control my food.

Q: What would you tell other people that are binging and purging?

A: Please don't do it (easier said than done I know). Please stop hurting yourself. I know personally how hard it is not to (even if consciously you don't want to) and I have absolutely no judgment of anyone who engages in the behavior but I learned the hard way how much damage you can do to yourself. I destroyed my teeth and had to have a complete reconstruction. It was painful and costly and took several years to complete. I felt like my bulimia took years from my life and ten years to heal from. It is something I have had to take responsibility for but I have often felt robbed and cheated of a lot of time. I don't think most people who binge and purge realize the possible consequences.

I guess I would just say that if you are binging and purging please get help. Please find someone to talk to. It's too hard to do alone.

If you struggle with bulimia, I hope that something here sheds some light for you on your life. Beware of a voice in your head that says anything like "I might throw up once in awhile but I'm not as bad as her" or "I have it under control." That's a sign that you're trying to justify your behavior and trick yourself into believing it's okay to continue binging and purging. Emotional eaters find themselves turning to food more and more once it has been installed as a coping mechanism, and bulimics find themselves purging more and more as life becomes stressful. Getting help works. You are not alone and you don't have to face this by yourself.

Autor: Michelle Fiordaliso

Michelle Fiordaliso, writer and psychotherapist
Clinical director of ShrinkYourself.com
Shrink Yourself is the Proven Online Program Designed to End Emotional Eating

Added: June 25, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

3 Reasons More and More People Are Addicted to Food

Overeating and obesity are often blamed on things like lack of willpower, metabolism, or genetics. However, more and more studies (including those in animal research) are revealing that food addiction is real. You might wonder why more and more people seem to be addicted to food these days. Weight issues are on the rise and if we look closely we might be able to determine why. The answer might help us find solutions for ourselves. Since it can be tempting to focus more on the problem than on the solution I will offer a solution to each problem here.

PROBLEM ONE: FOOD ADDITIVES MAKE US FAT

Studies continue to reveal that additives in food make us fat. Certain foods, particularly fast foods, can be engineered to make us crave them. David Kessler's book, The End of Overeating, shows us how we can become hardwired to eat large quantities of foods that are dangerous to our health. The lure of these types of food has us getting up in our pajamas to go to our nearest drive-thru. In other words, we have become more and more physically addicted to food, the same way we could become addicted to nicotine or drugs.

SOLUTION

Cravings are almost never for broiled chicken, steamed broccoli, or slices of fresh peaches. It's not that those foods can't be delicious but cravings are usually for things like cookies, doughnuts, baked goods, chips, etc. Clear your diet of unhealthy foods. The closer a food is to its natural source the less likely you'll be to crave that food in an unnatural way.

PROBLEM TWO: LIFE IS MORE STRESSFUL

The faster pace of life these days affects our weight. For one, when we're stressed and rushed we're more likely to grab unhealthy foods on the go. Secondly, constantly being overstimulated keeps our nervous systems in an activated state. By not letting our bodies shut down and relax our cortisol levels (cortisol is a hormone produced by our adrenal glands) get heightened. Elevated cortisol levels make it difficult to take off extra weight, especially around one's belly. Food, especially carbohydrates and sweets, can give us a little dose of calm that our adrenal glands no longer know how to create. Therefore, we become physically dependent on the calm that food can provide.

SOLUTION

In simple terms, relax. Shut off the TV, the computer, and the radio. Allow yourself a little bit of quiet everyday. Breathe deeply. You'd be amazed how many people simply forget to breathe. A friend of mine told me that she takes three deep breaths every time she goes to the bathroom. This allows her at least a certain amount of deep breaths per day. Adopt a meditation practice. Meditation has been shown to lower elevated cortisol levels. If you want a simple way to shut down your body, close your eyes and notice if your eyes are still moving beneath your lids. Follow the movements until they slow down. As you do, a feeling of calm will wash over you.

PROBLEM THREE: TALKING DOESN'T TEACH US ANYTHING

In modern times it's easy to believe that we are more emotionally open and mature. But just because we talk openly about almost anything on talk shows and blogs it's not necessarily the case. However, the truth is that talking about things doesn't necessarily teach us how to deal with them. For the most part, we are just as confused as ever about how to handle our feelings. This leads us to looking towards food for comfort more and more frequently. We soothe and nurture ourselves by eating. This is why we are emotionally addicted to food.

SOLUTION:

The best thing you can do to avoid eating is to understand your feelings. Feelings are like weather - they happen and then they pass. But the problem is that we take our feelings very seriously and that's when they get overwhelming. This sends us searching for the comfort of food. Simply learn what you need when you feel angry, sad, lonely, frustrated, or anxious. Then, you'll be better equipped to face almost anything without food. Just as knowing the right hat and shoes to wear in a snowstorm can make it so much more bearable, learning how to deal with your feelings will enable you to turn to food less frequently. Remember, feelings aren't facts. They don't last that long.

There are so many comforting components to eating that it's understandable that we'd become addicted to that kind of comfort. Food is so accessible these days. It's everywhere and there is a heightened focus on food. But if you focus on the solution more than the problem you'll find yourself recovering your power and becoming the master of what and when you eat.

Autor: Michelle Fiordaliso

Michelle Fiordaliso, writer and psychotherapist
Clinical director of ShrinkYourself.com
Shrink Yourself is the Proven Online Program Designed to End Emotional Eating

Added: June 23, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

How to Recognize the Symptoms of Anorexia

Most parents don't see the symptoms of anorexia until it's too late. Too many teenagers have fallen victim to this insidious eating disorder, and by the time the massive weight loss is noticed, the ravaging effects of anorexia have already begun to take place. There are reasons that such a high number of teens become anorexic, and if the signs are noticed soon enough, the damage caused by this disorder can be kept to a minimum.

What is Anorexia?

Anorexia nervosa, or anorexia for short, is the unreasonable worry of getting fat. This is combined with being relentless about getting as thin as possible. The extremes that people with this disorder go to are incredible and are considered to be the symptoms of anorexia. They feel they MUST reach and keep such a low body weight that it endangers their very lives. The mind set of someone with anorexia is that no matter how much weight they lose, it's never enough. Losing even more weight is an obsession and the effects of anorexia are typically not noticed by the victim.

There are basically 2 types of anorexia. One type is known as the Restricting Type. People with this type of anorexia control their caloric intake through rigidly monitoring how much they're eating. They also are the ones who are drawn to unhealthy diets, unnatural fasting, and exercising to the extreme. The second type is known as the Purging Type. Victims of this type use vomiting, laxatives and diuretics to rid their bodies of any food that may have passed their lips.

What are the Symptoms of Anorexia?

Teens who suffer from anorexia are very good at covering up their symptoms. That's why it's necessary to know just what to look for when trying to be certain if someone is anorexic or not. Even when they're confronted with proof, they'll try to explain it away rather than admit to anything. In fact, they probably don't understand that others see their appearance much more differently than they do when they face the mirror. For this reason, it's vital to catch this disorder in the early stages. By the time the effects of anorexia are noticed, there's a lot of damage already done to the body.

The following are some important symptoms of anorexia to watch for:

• In spite of being thin already, the person is obsessed with dieting only eating certain very low calorie foods. "Bad" foods like fats and carbohydrates are banned.
• The anorexic person will be obsessed with counting calories, and reading labels on all foods before deciding to eat it.
• This person lies about eating or only pretends to eat.
• There's a preoccupation with food. The anorexic will not eat but is thinking constantly about food and may cook elaborate meals for family and friends, while not actually eating any of it.
• The anorexic may take part in odd or secret eating rituals.
• This person may disappear into the bathroom immediately following a meal, using running water to hide the sounds of vomiting, and re-emerges smelling of mouthwash.
• These people indulge in punishing exercise regimens.

Effects of Anorexia

• Physically, anorexia causes dramatic weight loss to the point that the skeletal frame can be seen through the skin. Teens with anorexia often wear baggy clothing to hide this fact.
• Menstrual periods will cease.
• There's a feeling of being cold all the time.
• Constipation and abdominal pains become constant.
• Headaches, dizziness, and even fainting are common.

These are just the initial effects of anorexia. As the disorder progresses, important organs in the body begin to feel the damage that is being done.

Seeking Help for Anorexia

While anorexia is a very serious, disturbing, and sad disorder, it's important to understand that once the symptoms of anorexia are noticed, there are ways to get help. The first step is, of course, getting the victim to admit there's a serious problem. That will be the largest hurdle to clear. Begin with a visit to the family doctor for an open and honest conversation.

Autor: Scott Mogul

To learn more about eating disorders, please visit http://www.mirror-mirror.org/eatdis.htm For more information about helping a loved one with anorexia, please visit us at http://www.mirror-mirror.org/girls-with-anorexia.htm

Added: June 21, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Setting Boundaries - Five Tips and Boundary Basics to Prevent Binging

Have you ever found yourself running to the pantry to scarf down a box of chocolate after saying, "yes" to someone when you really wanted to say, "No?" Do you have a hard time being assertive and letting people know what's on your mind? Do you tend to be a people pleaser and find yourself completely overcommitted and overwhelmed? It's no wonder you may find yourself eating out of control. That's a sure sign that your boundaries are weak and someone is walking all over you. To remedy that, you just have to get clear about what you want and what's important to you. Then share it with others.

Boundaries create healthy relationships for you and for others

Your ability to set boundaries reflects upon how much you respect yourself, your time, your values and you body. By demonstrating to others that you respect how you feel, and acting with integrity on your feelings, people will learn to respect you. We are always teaching people how we want to be treated. If you don't like the way that you're being treated by someone, don't blame them, change how you treat yourself.

Having boundaries stops you from overcommitting and falling headfirst into situations where you get completely overwhelmed and end up feeling undervalued. By learning to be more assertive and stating what you will and won't do, you free yourself of the guilt of making empty promises and looking like a scatter brain when you don't do what you said you would do.

As you gain strength in becoming a more assertive and confident woman, you will be free to focus more time on doing what you love, those things that have real value for you, the ones that make your heart sing.

Opportunities to set boundaries are everywhere. At work, in the home, with friends, acquaintances, those annoying telemarketers who call when you're just sitting down to dinner, Don't forget Uncle Don when he tells you that you look like a truck driver from behind, and many more. Just like a mother bear, protecting her baby cub, your boundaries will protect you from getting taken advantage of by others. Here are five quick tips to set some healthy boundaries that will likely help to prevent those dreaded busted boundary binges.

1. Make time for you

Stop thinking of taking care of yourself as selfish. It's not. Take a tip from the airlines. In the event of a loss of oxygen, the mother must always put her mask on first before placing a mask on her children. This is the only way for both the mother and child to be protected. As my colleague, Lorraine Cohen says, "when we take really good care of ourselves, the people in our lives get the best of us, rather than what's left of us."

2. Schedule your priorities

Get out your calendar and schedule the most important parts of your life first. If going to the gym is important to you, just ink it, don't think it. Unless you have something scheduled, it's much too easy to blow it off and pretend that it's not important. When you have something to look forward to each day, it builds up your self esteem. When your self esteem gets a lift you won't feel compelled to do any heavy fork lifting. Write it down, make it happen.

3. Clear the clutter

Take time to re-evaluate what's important to you. That means getting down and dirty and cleaning up, mentally, emotionally and physically. By reviewing your schedule, you're likely to see where in your life you've become overcommitted and underappreciated. The first step to change is becoming aware.

4. Cope with your stress

You must deal with the buggin' you's that keep you tied up in knots. Do whatever you must to find a consistent way of dealing with the stress that threatens to keep you eating when you're not hungry.

5. Seek support

Join a support community of like minded women who are committed to helping you by encouraging you to set boundaries. Gain inspiration and wisdom from their experiences so that you can deal with the fall out of friends and family whose cages will get rattled by the new you.

Change is always difficult. That's why it's best to take a step by step approach to setting boundaries. Start low and gradually raise the bar. Practice setting a boundary with someone in a low risk position, like a telemarketer or role play with a buddy. Then gradually turn your little meow into a big roar.

Autor: Andrea Amador

And to learn more about how to how to make peace with food and friends with your body go to http://www.thejuicywoman.com and learn the strategies I use every day to be curvy and confident at any size

From Andrea Amador - The Juicy Woman

Added: June 17, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Intuitive Eating - How to Listen to Your Hunger Cues

Intuitive eating is something that you can do for the rest of your life. Why? Because it is not a diet and it is not restrictive!

Diets bring you into a place of self restriction using "will power" (which is not real by the way). Once you reach your goal (or when you just cannot do it anymore) you give in. Your eating patterns resume to what they were before or worse.

Learning how to eat intuitively is especially helpful for those who suffer from emotional overeating and binge eating tendencies.

When it comes to emotional eating and binge eating; hunger cues become nonexistent. The line between emotional hunger and physical hunger is so blurred that there is no longer a distinction.

So how do you learn to eat intuitively?

Answer: Listen to Your Hunger Cues.

This is not when your mind says that you need a chocolate bar now!. It's when your body physically tells you are in need of nutrition. This may come as a hallow feeling in your stomach or an actual "growl".

The first step in listening to your hunger cues is to make the distinction between emotional hunger and physical hunger.

You may want to begin keeping a journal to help you make that distinction. Write down what emotion you are feeling when you want to eat.

If you want something to eat because you're stressed or frustrated; ask yourself what would relieve that emotion instead of stuffing it away with food. You may want to take a walk to clear your mind and address the situation that is causing you to feel that way.

Numbing emotions with food is what got you where you are now... just give this a try and see what happens. You may still eat for emotional reasons in the beginning; but don't beat yourself up about it. Just acknowledge it and move on. If it is true physical hunger you are feeling; then eat whatever you want and stop when your stomach begins to feel comfortably full. In the beginning you may want a bowl of cookie dough. It's okay to do it; just make sure to stop when you're full. Eventually you will begin to want other foods and your diet will naturally become more nutritious.

A big problem for most people is knowing when to stop eating. We tend to eat because it tastes good and we don't want that sensation to end because it is pleasurable.

Learning when your body is physically full is another aspect of intuitive eating that may take time to learn. It takes your body at least 20 minutes to send your brain the signal that you are no longer hungry. Try to eat slowly to allow this sensation to occur.

Learning to listen to your hunger cues may take time and practice. It is not a quick fix or magic pill.... and that is exactly why it works long term!

Happy intuitive eating!

Autor: Stefanie Nielsen Stefanie Nielsen
Level: Basic
My name is Stefanie Nielsen. I live in rural Colorado with my husband and two beautiful children (soon to be three in May 2009). Being ... ...

by Stefanie Nielsen

Overcome-Binge-Eating.com

Overcoming binge eating and emotional eating is something that is possible and within your reach. I've been there and understand the emotional struggles that you're experiencing. You can begin to heal and become free of emotional eating. Just believe!

If you are interested in receiving my FREE e-course "How to Stop Binge Eating": sign up here

Added: June 16, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Emotional Eating Disorder Research

Emotional eating disorder research is providing professionals with key indicators that may forecast those individuals that are susceptible to this disease. Focusing on individual's negative emotions and how they typically react to those emotions, researchers have been able to confront and prevent early onset of eating disorder behavior. These individuals would then learn new more appreciate methods of adjusting to these negative emotions and continue with the therapeutic process to oversee progress or the lack of progress.

Emotional eating disorder research would develop an emotional picture that shows the specific situations or triggers shared by targeted individuals confronting negative emotions. The profile would include both persons at risk as well as those already diagnosed with an eating disorder. Researchers studied both positive and negative emotions and concluded it was the emotions of anxiety, low self-esteem and early onset depression that influenced weight gain and diet control. Researchers also looked at the individual's ability of expression and the accuracy in describing these emotions.

The research shows a profile of those at greater risk at contracting an eating disorder. The emotional state coupled with a person's inability to express themselves or accurately perceive the reality of the situation when faced with anxiety or low self-esteem will lead to negative behavior. If the stressor is associated with diet or body shape then the sufferer will most probably develop an eating disorder.

The increase in admissions to eating disorder treatment centers has multiplied in recent years with pre-teens leading and sixty plus women a close second. Use this research should be taken into account when developing a prevention program. Today's professionals need all the help they can get in addressing this deadly disease.

Autor: Dan B. Clark

Dan C's career in the addiction field spans twenty-five years. He has held positions in all phases of administration and clinical services in Treatment Facilities throughout the state of Florida. He is currently employed by http://www.recoveryconnection.org

Added: June 14, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Inpatient Eating Disorder Clinics Questions You Must Ask

Inpatient eating disorder clinics are necessary when the level of a bad eating problem has led to physical problems that may be life threatening or has reached a point of severe psychological or behavioral problems. This may include hospitalization or residential admittance in eating disorder treatment facilities. Inpatient stays usually entail a phase of outpatient follow up and aftercare to focus on the main problems. The correct program needs of each individual will be different. It is critical for individuals dealing with an eating problem to seek out a health professional they trust to help coordinate their care. And there are some things that need to be asked to fully evaluate an eating disorder clinic.

Are there are outpatient mental health programs that have medical doctors and licensed clinical counselors who work with patients with eating issues?

Psychotherapy or counseling along with careful attention to medical and nutritional needs are the most effective and long lasting treatment for an eating problem. Medications have been shown to assist in treatment, however, whatever treatment is advised should be tailored to the individual, and this will be different according to both the acuteness of the disorder and the individual problems, needs and strengths of the patient.

Do psychiatrists conduct patient assessment and keep in contact with the family members to incorporated them into treatment for the individual?

Does the inpatient program have a continuing care service with group therapy and support?

Programs are organized to create a highly structured program designed to curtail the patients bad eating behaviors, begin normalizing body weight, and identify and exploring psychosocial issues behind the eating problem. Patients admitted to an inpatient program are medically evaluated prior to admission. The treatment program components usually include an eating program, individual and group therapy, family therapy and medications as needed. An individualized therapy plan is developed for each patient, and each patient's treatment is overseen by a coordinator who also provides the patient's assessment to the treatment team. The treatment team members are experts in the treatment of eating issues and are knowledgeable in designing the goals for each patient.

Food disorders are serious health conditions that can be both physically and emotionally destructive. People with bad eating behaviors need to seek professional help from inpatient eating disorder clinics. Early diagnosis and intervention may speed recovery. Bad eating behaviors can become chronic, debilitating, and even life threatening conditions. Treatment for bad eating behaviors must focus on the behavioral indicators, as well as psychological, physical, interpersonal and cultural forces that cause or maintain the food disorder.

Autor: Alex Renner

Visit us for help and information about Inpatient eating disorder treatment and Inpatient eating disorder clinics

Added: June 13, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Do You Need Inpatient Eating Disorder Treatment?

Inpatient eating disorder treatment is time and again rejected because people with bad eating behaviors repeatedly consider that they are not worthy of assistance. If you consider you are in need of assistance, you ought to explain this with your councilor. If there is a list of things that are going wrong in your life because of a bad eating behavior, you are definitely ready for inpatient treatment. Being at a physically fit or unhealthy body mass doesn't determine whether or not you have a bad eating behavior. It is possible to succumb from disorder symptoms such as; binging and purging, taking laxatives, induced vomiting while still holding a perfectly reasonable weight. You need assistance coping with your issues in a healthy approach and inpatient eating disorder treatment can coach you. Ask your psychologist for a referral.

NICE Guidelines for the coping with and treatment of bad eating behaviors are handy from the www.iop.ac.uk (institute of psychiatry) they plainly lay out when an individual calls for eating disorder inpatient treatment, make a copy and take it to your general practitioner and they will cover it with you.

What kind of questions should I expect on my first visit? People are usually excited about counseling. Many believe the therapist is going to consider that they are messed up.

The therapist is there to give you an evaluation and present you with an unbiased glimpse on the things that are irritating the disorder.

The therapist is a professional and is not going to consider you are messed up; this is their calling, and they should discern that this is a disease, not a personality attribute, and be able to navigate you in your rehabilitation. The therapist will talk with you a lot of different things; eating patterns, how you feel about eating and various eating associated questions, also about your life in general get an all-inclusive point of view for your state. The therapist is going to ask questions based on their technique. They are there to help you figure yourself out. Therapy is a liberating experience, it is the one place you can be screwed up and it's okay.

You must remember that emotions are not fact and your feelings can betray you. You are worthy to get healthy! If eating or not eating is ruining the way you want to live then you should think over going to a disorder clinic. How sick you are is not the key but how much power it has over your life. Ask your councilor for a referral and see what programs are on hand for your needs. If your hopes and lifestyle before the disorder started are being delayed or pushed aside, then you may need inpatient eating disorder treatment.

Autor: Alex Renner

Visit us for help and information about Inpatient eating disorder treatment and Inpatient eating disorder clinics

Added: June 12, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

How Can I Get Help With My Food Addiction If I Have Children?

No one wants to admit they need help especially with food. People will try everything on their own repeatedly just so they don't have to admit they have a problem. Eating disorders have so much shame attached to them. Men can be overweight and remain socially acceptable by outward appearances. Men are unhappy with how they look and feel however, men do not receive the looks that women get when there lives are obviously out of order.

The problem with eating disorders is he or she can't hide them. If he or she is anorexic people notice that the bones are protruding. If he or she is bulimic people tend to notice the high volume of food missing and off to the restroom. Then the compulsive over eater or binge eater wears the weight so others can see. Eating disorders require more than one hour a week visit to a therapist. The eating disorder requires inpatient treatment. Then when completed it would be appropriate to follow-up with a therapist weekly for continued support.

So many individuals do not realize they have insurance benefits that will cover them to go to an eating disorder treatment program. Mothers feel like how can I leave my husband and children to go away and get help? Better questions why not? The best gift he or she can give the husband, family, friends, partners and children is YOU! So often with eating disorders the shame and guilt that is attached with the disorder makes the individual detach from everyone they love around them. The person might be there physically but emotionally, physically and spiritually they left a long time ago.

Getting help is a sign of strength not weakness. Recognizing that he or she can not do this alone and reaches out for help is admirable. As a parent I am responsible to take care of myself as well as my family and when I am preoccupied with the eating disorder I am not there for anyone else including myself. The most loving thing a person can do struggling with an eating disorder is to get help, now not next week which turns into next month next year and so on. Call today and start a new life!

Autor: Joanna Painton

Joanna works for the Women's Behavioral Program. She has overcome adversities and shares her hope with anyone she comes in contact with. Joanna is a known published author in the Bariatric and Weight Loss Community, she has spent the last 13 years helping to inspire and motivate people on the value of the body, mind and spirit connection.

Please feel free to contact Joanna at http://www.womenstreatmentprogram.com or by e-mail joanna@recoveryconnection.org

Added: June 10, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Is There Help For Compulsive Overeating?

If anyone had told me I could go a day without misusing food I would have laughed. After years of using food to not feel my or deal with my emotions I had no idea how to cope with life other than to self medicate. I thought I was alone and that no one else did what I did. I was filled with shame, guilt and remorse. I thought of myself as weak willed unable to stick to my guns. I didn't know that I had an allergy to sugar, wheat and flour.

My food addiction began as a child I turned to food as comfort, as I matured my disease grew with me, I needed to do more in order to not feel and incorporated drugs and alcohol my disease continued. I was blessed to get into recovery from drug and alcohol addiction 15 years ago, a year later when I reached my highest weight of 460lbs. I surrender to my food addiction. My life was so small due to how large I had become, I was unable to work and physically unable to function. I had small children and I was so depressed and unhappy I felt there was no hope.

Then a light bulb went off I was lead into recovery for drug and alcohol why couldn't I recover from the eating disorder of compulsive overeating? I realized that it wasn't the food that was the problem the food was the symptom. I needed help from other individuals who could help me address what happened that lead me to food in the first place. Inpatient treatment worked, it allowed me the opportunity to stop blaming others, and accept responsibility for my behaviors and actions.

I was surrounded by people who knew about the disease of addiction, I was in a safe place everything was confidential and I finally allowed someone else to help to learn how to help myself. I was given the gift of complete desperation from that I was able to re-create a life that is beyond anything I could have imagined. Today I live and I am present, the lights are on and I am home. My wish for anyone reading this article is to let them know help is available with eating disorders just ask!

Autor: Joanna Painton

Joanna works for the Women's Behavioral Program. She has overcome adversities and shares her hope with anyone she comes in contact with. Joanna is a known published author in the Bariatric and Weight Loss Community, she has spent the last 13 years helping to inspire and motivate people on the value of the body, mind and spirit connection.

Please feel free to contact Joanna at http://www.womenstreatmentprogram.com or by e-mail joanna@recoveryconnection.org

Added: June 9, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Mindful Eating Roadblocks Part 1

I don't know about you, but I can pretty-much guarantee I'll be in a good mood over the next five months. Why? Because there's more light! I'm like a little flower who opens up and smiles when the sun shines and the air becomes warmer. I'm guessing most of you feel the same way. Over the past few months, I've been busy producing my latest book and audio program, and have been getting out in public and offering workshops and talks about its contents. Delightedly, I've been met with keen interest and wonderful and enthusiastic participation. So to start of the spring, I'd like to share with you a 'taste' of part of my book/workshop series from "Mindful Eating"...I hope you enjoy it. There are five major roadblocks to mindful eating and I will cover a different one in this next series of articles so stay tuned!

Roadblock #1: DISTRACTED EATING

I'm guessing you know what I'm talking about here. Who among us doesn't "multitask" on a daily basis; especially while we are eating? I have noticed that in our North American culture, the preparation and consuming of food seems to be little more than an inconvenience in our stressed-out, busy lives. I, myself, have become particularly adept at eating while driving, which not only takes the joy out of a meal, but also is very dangerous. I liken it to talking on a cell phone while driving- a very bad habit.

How many of you eat while also doing the following:

Watching television?
Driving?
Working at your job?
Having an argument?
Sitting at the computer?
Walking?
Talking on the phone?

You're not alone! Here are some statistics:

North American adults spend an average of 1 hour and 12 minutes per day eating, yet they spend between 2 -3 hours per day watching television.

66% of Americans report regularly eating dinner in front of the television.

Why should you eat mindfully?

You will eat less and get out of the habit of overeating:

Americans have been gaining weight for quite some time. The most recent National Center for Health Statistics report found that 32% of all U.S. adults are obese according to the government's Body Mass Index (BMI) classification system. By contrast, just 23% of adults were classified as obese in government surveys taken from 1988 through 1994. Government surveys also find that the increase in weight is in part related to an increase in calorie and dietary intake. In short, people are eating more.

If the mind is focused on more than one task while eating, critical signs that regulate food intake may not be received by the brain. If the brain fails to receive important messages such as the sensation of taste and satisfaction, it may not register the event as "eating". When this happens, your brain continues to send out hunger signals, increasing your risk of overeating.

You will drastically improve your digestive health: Recent research has found that when our mind is distracted during a meal, the digestive process may be 30-40% less effective.

For homework, I want you to practise eating without distractions. To help you achieve this, here are my "top 10" strategies for mindful eating:

1.Only eat while sitting.
2.Set a place for yourself at the table with a placemat, cutlery, napkin, and a glass for a beverage.
3.Eat away from your work area- in a lunchroom, restaurant, or outside.
4.Eat with chopsticks- it will automatically slow you down.
5.Take a few deep breaths before you eat to calm and center yourself.
6.Chew each bite at least 30 times before swallowing
7.Give thanks for your meal and appreciate that you have food to eat.
8.If you are eating with others, avoid upsetting conversation over meals and instead, practise eating quietly and mindfully with the other person.
9.Turn off the phone at all mealtimes so you won't be interrupted.
10. Eat at the same time every day for each of your three meals and make sure it takes you a minimum of 20 minutes to eat a meal.

Autor: Esther R. Kane Esther R. Kane
Level: Platinum
Esther Kane, MSW, Registered Clinical Counsellor, is the author of the soon-to-be-released book and audio program, "It"s Not About the Food: A Woman"s Guide To ... ...

Esther Kane, MSW, Registered Clinical Counsellor, is the author of the book and audio program, "It's Not About the Food: A Woman's Guide To Making Peace with Food and Our Bodies" (http://www.endyoureatingdisorder.com). Sign up for her free monthly e-zine, Women's Community Counsellor, to uplift and inspire women at: http://www.estherkane.com

Added: June 7, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Answer Me This - How Long Can Heartburn Last?

Heartburn is a rather common medical condition that affects not the heart, but the stomach and the surrounding muscles. The pain associated with this illness is usually very difficult to bear and can prevent a person from functioning normally. So how long can heartburn last? Some cases fade after a few hours, while some last for several days. If you want to find out how long for you, you should determine the gravity of your situation.

Symptoms may appear as one burst of unbearable pain, or as minor sporadic attacks over several weeks. The gravity of cases can vary widely, and this level of severity will determine how long it will last or when the symptoms will actually stop. Sometimes, the less serious cases will disappear on their own but more frequently, proper treatment is required to get rid of these persistent heartburn symptoms.

One of the first things you have to consider in treating any form of acid reflux is the choice of treatment method that you will use. Most of the time, the symptoms will disappear after taking a few dosages of over the counter medications, which are very effective in eliminating the pain and discomfort that is associated with it. These drugs are called antacids, and they work by bringing down the level of acidity in the stomach. This will then lessen the burning sensation that you might be feeling in your lower chest area, and it also relaxes the muscles around the stomach and esophagus.

Natural treatments methods are also very common, and many of these treatments are simply living a healthier lifestyle. Avoiding unhealthy habits such as smoking and excessive alcohol drinking will not only help you get rid of these symptoms, but reduce your risks of developing other medical problems as well.

Modifications in your diet may also be required and these can affect the question of 'how long can heartburn last?' Acid reflux is frequently caused by overeating so you must exercise more prudence during meals. You should also consume more nutritious foods such as fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and other foods rich in fiber. Getting plenty of exercise and adequate sleep are also essential both for improving your overall health and getting rid of irritating symptoms.

You can actually shorten the duration of this condition by practicing these regular healthy habits. For a more intensive treatment program, you can consult with medical professionals. With their help, you can better understand the pros and cons of each method, and you will be able to make a more practical decision.

Autor: C. K. Moore

Heartburn is a problem for many people. Charles Moore offers help to those wanting heartburn relief. For information on heartburn, acid reflux and GERD, visit the 'Heartburn Relief Center http://heartburnreliefcenter.com/

Added: June 5, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Five Ways to Feel Skinny

I am reading a book about helping children recover from eating disorders and as I read I notice they have almost a whole chapter on "feeling fat". Isn't it interesting that fat isn't a feeling. I mean technically it is NOT an emotion. So why would you feel fat?

*note this is clearly not an article for my anorexic audience

It is hard to explain, but I know exactly what the author is talking about. And I also know that it doesn't matter what your body is accurately like at that time. So what do you do to feel Fat or feel Skinny? Well, feelings are emotions and those are received and interpreted in your brain.

I usually feel fat if I think I am fat, unworthy, the underdog, losing or a series of negative things. So to feel skinny perhaps I just need to think of positive things? Yes, I believe this is true.

Try these five things to feel skinny:

- Wear a piece of clothing that is too big, look in the mirror and say darn I am skinny!
- Write down five things you love about yourself. Once you feel good say darn I am skinny!
- Plan a meal you really want to eat. After savoring every bite. Say that was good and darn I am skinny!
- While brushing your teeth (hopefully twice a day) look yourself in the eye (in the mirror) and say, darn I am skinny.
- Just choose to feel good, feel good and do good, darn I am skinny

My secret number six just in case all of the above fail, and your internal unhappy meter is still arguing. Get a spray tan. I recommend a Mystic Tan. It takes under a minute and you will look like a different person a few hours later. I always feel like a new girl in a spray tan. You just can't stay grumpy when you have that glow.

Finally Free

Autor: Bridget Loves Bridget Loves
Level: Basic
Bridget Loves is Fed Up Girl, an Body Image and Un-Diet Coach and Speaker. She resides in Los Angeles, California where she helps many women ... ...

Bridget Loves
Body Image and Un-Diet Coach
Santa Monica, CA
http://www.fedupgirl.com

Added: June 4, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Social Networking and Eating Disorders

Social Networking and eating disorders have teamed up to produce a disturbing new trend for those struggling with this disease. Isolation is a recognized symptom of eating disorder sufferers and a symptom that alerts anyone close that there is a problem. With the advent of social networking anyone can appear to be interacting socially when in reality they are receiving negative support for those behaviors that are dangerous and life threatening. The pain of isolation is gone replaced with a network of afflicted eating disorder sufferers who encourage one another and trade diets that are recipes of malnourishment.

Social Networking and eating disorders combine to produce a worldwide audience. Some of which may not have previous knowledge of disordered eating and are receiving information that glorifies it rather than introducing the devastating effects of this disease. Those viewing a social networking will learn new was to vomit or ways to hide their disease from family or friends that could provide help that might save a life.

Organizations have joined together to remove "Ana Sits" from the internet only to see the use of "Facebook" and "MySpace" replace those banned sites. Some organizations join social networking sites portraying themselves as a positive support system only to be revealed trading pictures of anorexic members and their weight loss diets.

Children are the most susceptible to this new form of peer pressure. It becomes much easier to locate someone with the same negative behavior pattern to identify with receive negative feedback. Eating disorder treatment centers report new clients are talking about their experience with social networking and their eating disorder. All addictive diseases dealing with obsessive behavior are insidious; adding the internet seems to increase vulnerability and speed up the negative progression. Suffering people are looking for acceptance and will continue to use social networking if they can't find that acceptance anywhere else.

Autor: Dan B. Clark

Dan C's career in the addiction field spans twenty-five years. He has held positions in all phases of administration and clinical services in Treatment Facilities throughout the state of Florida. He is currently employed by http://www.recoveryconnection.org

Added: June 3, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/