Eating Disorders Q & A

What are eating disorders?

Eating disorders are conditions that affect the way you think about and eat food. These disorders can negatively affect your health, social interactions, and overall quality of life when not addressed. If you struggle with unusual or unhealthy eating habits and desire to overcome them, see the Mindful TMS Neurocare Centers team for an evaluation. 

What are the different types of eating disorders? 

The following are common eating disorders among men and women: 

Anorexia nervosa 

Anorexia is an eating disorder characterized by disordered eating, a perception of being overweight when you’re not, a low body weight, and an intense fear of gaining weight. You might also have a distorted self-image and compulsively exercise. 

Bulimia nervosa 

Bulimia is an eating disorder in which you force yourself to throw up after eating or excessively exercise (purge) after consuming food. It’s also characterized by a fear of gaining weight, though many people with bulimia are within a normal weight range. If you have bulimia, you may first binge on high-calorie foods before purging. 

Binge eating disorder 

People with binge eating disorder have unhealthy obsessions with food and an inability to stop eating despite being full or wanting to stop. You might consume a large number of calories throughout the day or during a single meal. People with binge eating disorder are often overweight or obese. 

Pica 

Pica is an eating disorder in which you have cravings for and eat non-food items, such as paint chips, ice, dirt, or clay. 

What are the risk factors for eating disorders? 

The cause of eating disorders isn’t entirely clear, but risk factors for developing them include:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Low self-esteem
• Past trauma
• Stress
• Family history of eating disorders

Minimizing stress, adopting additional healthy habits, and seeking treatment for other mental health conditions may reduce your risk of eating disorders. 

Is TMS an option for eating disorder treatment? 

Treatment plans for eating disorders may consist of a combination of strategies, such as making lifestyle changes, taking medications, and undergoing therapy. 

Mindful TMS Neurocare Centers specializes in transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), a noninvasive mental health treatment that emits electromagnetic energy into nerves in your brain. You might hear tapping or clicking sounds during your treatment, which typically lasts about 20-40 minutes per session. Multiple treatments offer the most benefits.  

Schedule an eating disorders evaluation at Mindful TMS Neurocare Centers by calling the office or requesting one online today.