Could You be a Victim of Disordered Eating?
Disordered eating is a phrase used to describe a range of behaviors relating to how we interact with food. This could look like yo-yo dieting, rigid routines involving food, loss of control around food, or even using exercise to off-set the effects of “eating bad.”
While the definition is vague, the detrimental effects are real and are worth a closer look.
My own, very non-medical definition of disordered eating is having an unhealthy relationship with food.
The truth is that food has one purpose and that is to nourish our bodies.
Over time we have given food a lot of power and intertwined into many of our own routines like holiday cookie exchanges and dinners with friends. Many of these activities are healthy and provide us with a sense of community. However, other activities, like indulging in a pint of ice cream after a breakup, only leave us with mixed messages.
If you have ever struggled with overeating, undereating, or other abnormal behaviors regarding food, it is likely that there has been an unhealthy relationship created somewhere along your journey.
So, what differentiates this from an actual eating disorder?
The difference between disordered eating and an eating disorder is based on the criteria in the DSM- 5. You can evaluate that here. As you will find, the main difference is the frequency and severity of the abnormal behavior.
Research suggests that up to 50% of the population demonstrates disordered eating.
Holy moly, that’s a lot!
My mission, as a health coach and a human being, is to help women feel empowered and amazing in their bodies. However, sometimes that means facing some difficult issues.
Below, I have created some questions to help you reflect on your own relationship with food.
Now, I am not a medical professional. These questions are solely intended for you to reflect upon your own relationship with food.
But before you start, I want you to remember one thing…
You are an amazing and valuable person. The answers to these questions don’t change that. Self-reflection can help us make great strides in life, but only if we treat it like a gift rather than a curse.
If you can embody that, then move forward.
If not, come back later when you are ready.
Disorderly Eating Self-reflection Questions:
1. Do you use food to distract yourself during difficult times through either overconsumption or restriction?
2. Do you eat when you are not hungry?
3. Are you often on a strict diet?
4. Is your self-worth closely tied to your body shape and weight?
5. Do you have an excessive or rigid exercise routine?
6. Are social situations difficult due to self-imposed restrictions related restrictions?
If you answered yes to several of these questions, it may be time to take a closer look at your relationship with food.
There is a wealth of information out there that can enable you to do this on your own, with a health coach, or a medical professional. Only you can decide what is right for you.
My hope is that by bringing attention to this topic the healing process will begin.
Like the guy from Hair Club for Men…
I’m not just a health coach, I’m also someone who has struggled.
Disorderly eating has weaved itself in and out of my life. The craziest part about it was that most of the time I thought I was “dieting”.
The most valuable gift you can give yourself, your children, and anyone who cares for you is a strong sense of self-worth. As long as you are fighting with your body, your self-worth will be compromised.
Sister, I am here to tell you that the world is a better place when you radiate confidence, so I ask you to be brave and take action today.
In love and health,
Meghan