6 Types Of Eating Disorders: Symptoms & Treatments 2024

An eating disorder is a serious and potentially life-threatening mental illness associated with abnormal eating habits. If you suspect a loved one or yourself has disordered eating habits, getting help is essential.

According to the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD), at least 30 million individuals^[1] in the United States alone suffer from an eating disorder. They are also the second deadliest^[1] mental illness, where one person dies as a direct result every 52 minutes.^[2] 

But how many types of eating disorders are there? This article will delve into the symptoms and treatments of different types of eating disorders. We will also see how to recognize warning signs and learn how to practice mindful eating instead.

What Is An Eating Disorder?

An eating disorder^[3] is a mental health condition that affects a person’s relationship with food and their body. It can manifest in various ways, but it typically involves unhealthy or harmful behaviors around eating and exercise. 

It’s not just about wanting to lose weight or being picky about what you eat. Eating disorders are real illnesses that can seriously affect your physical and emotional health. 

They can also be tough to deal with for the person experiencing them and their loved ones. That’s why it is essential to recognize the signs and symptoms and seek help if you or someone you know may be struggling with an eating disorder.

6 Common Types Of Eating Disorders & Their Symptoms

If you’re wondering how many types of eating disorders there are, there are many different types of eating disorders.^[4] Here, we will answer the question, “What are the different types of eating disorders?” We will discuss six common types. These include

1. Anorexia Nervosa
2. Bulimia Nervosa
3. Binge Eating Disorder
4. Pica
5. Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder
6. Rumination Disorder

Anorexia Nervosa

Coming first on our list is the most common of all types of eating disorders. Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight^[5] and a distorted perception of body weight and shape. 

People with anorexia may see themselves as overweight even if they are underweight. They might even take extreme measures to lose or prevent weight gain. While anorexia can affect anyone, it is more common in women.^[6] 

Anorexia causes various symptoms, such as:

• Restricted eating patterns.
• Intense fear of weight gain.
• Obsession with body image and thinness. 
• Denial about being underweight.

Eventually, anorexia can lead to physical symptoms, such as:

• Fatigue.
• Weakness.
• Dizziness.
• Fainting.
• Dry skin.
• Hair loss.  

Bulimia Nervosa

Bulimia nervosa is another eating disorder involving a cycle of binge eating and purging behaviors.^[7] People with bulimia often feel a loss of control over food. They start by eating large amounts of food quickly (binge eating) quickly and then feel guilty or ashamed afterward. 

Because of this, they’ll often try to get rid of this excess food through purging. 

Some symptoms of bulimia nervosa include

• Vomiting after every meal. 
• Using laxatives or diuretics. 
• Obsession with exercise.
• Fear of gaining weight. 

Some side effects of bulimia nervosa include

• Swollen glands.
• Dental problems.
• Dehydration. 
• Electrolyte imbalances.
• Gastrointestinal^[8] problems.

Binge Eating Disorder

Binge Eating Disorder,^[9] or BED, is another common type of eating disorder. It is most common among adolescents.^[10] BED involves recurrent episodes of binge eating without compensatory behaviors such as purging or excessive exercise. 

During a binge episode, a person may eat large amounts of food in a short period, often feeling out of control or unable to stop eating.

Some common symptoms^[8] of BED include:

• Eating large quantities of food even when not physically hungry.
• Eating rapidly or until uncomfortably full.
• Eating alone due to embarrassment or shame.
• Feeling guilty, ashamed, or distressed after binge eating.
• Often dieting or trying to lose weight. 

BED often increases the risk for multiple health complications like diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. 

Pica

Pica^[11] is an eating disorder characterized by the persistent consumption of non-food items with no nutritional value, such as dirt, paper, chalk, and even metal. The prevalence^[12] of the disorder is unclear, but it is common in individuals with accompanying mental health conditions.^[12] 

The exact cause of pica is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to a combination of psychological and nutritional factors. 

Some people with pica may have a deficiency in certain nutrients, such as iron, that can cause cravings for non-food items. Others may have experienced trauma or stress, leading to the development of the disorder as a coping mechanism.

Symptoms of pica can vary depending on the type of item being consumed. Some common symptoms include:

• Cravings for non-food items.
• Eating non-food items such as dirt, clay, or paper.
• Stomach pain or discomfort.
• Dental problems, such as chipped or damaged teeth.
• Intestinal blockages or infections.

Pica can lead to serious health complications^[13] if left untreated. The consumption of non-food items can lead to malnutrition, digestive problems, and even poisoning. Additionally, ingesting non-food items can cause physical damage to the body, such as intestinal blockages or infections.

Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder

Another common disorder is Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID).^[14]  ARFID can affect people of any age, but it is more common in children and adolescents.^[14] It is an eating disorder involving a persistent lack of interest in food.

Unlike other eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa, ARFID is not driven by body image concerns. The symptoms of ARFID can vary from person to person. Still, some common signs include:

• Avoidance or restriction of certain foods or food groups based on their taste, texture, smell, or appearance.
• Anxiety or fear around eating or trying new foods.
• Significant weight loss or failure to gain weight in children.
• Nutritional deficiencies, such as anemia or low vitamin levels.

Rumination Disorder 

Lastly, rumination disorder^[15] is a newly diagnosed type of eating disorder characterized by the repeated regurgitation of food that has already been swallowed. 

People with rumination disorder regurgitate their food within a few minutes^[16] of eating. They re-chew it and then either swallow it again or spit it out. This behavior is not due to a medical condition or another eating disorder.

The symptoms of rumination disorder can include:

• Repeated regurgitation of food after meals.
• Re-chewing, re-swallowing, or spitting out food previously consumed.
• Weight loss or malnutrition.
• Bad breath or other dental problems.

Other Types Of Eating Disorders

In addition to all of the eating disorders we have listed, there are several other types of eating disorders that are not as common but can still affect individuals:

• Diabulimia: Diabulimia is an eating disorder specific to individuals with type 1 diabetes. It involves intentionally reducing insulin doses to lose weight^[17] or prevent weight gain. This can lead to high blood sugar levels and diabetic ketoacidosis, which can be life-threatening.
• Muscle Dysmorphia: Muscle dysmorphia is an eating disorder often seen in males. It involves an excessive preoccupation with muscularity and body size.^[18] Individuals with muscle dysmorphia may engage in extreme exercise and dietary restrictions to build muscle mass and achieve a particular physique.
• Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorder (OSFED): OSFED is a catch-all diagnosis^[19] for individuals with disordered eating patterns who do not meet the criteria for anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, or binge eating disorder.

How To Overcome Eating Disorders 

Overcoming all the eating disorders we listed often requires a multifaceted approach. Here are some steps to help in the recovery process:

Seek Professional Help

Consult a doctor, therapist, or counselor specializing in eating disorders. They can properly diagnose the condition and develop an individualized treatment plan. 

Nutritional Counseling

Consult a registered dietitian or nutritionist to help develop a healthy diet with all the necessary nutrients. This can be essential for learning how to have a healthy relationship with food and establishing regular eating habits.

Medication

In some cases, your healthcare provider may prescribe medications to manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other mental health conditions contributing to the eating disorder.

Develop Healthy Coping Mechanisms

Learning to practice stress management techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or journaling, can help cope with triggers that may lead to disordered eating behaviors.

Develop A Positive Self-Image 

Improve your self-esteem and body image by focusing on your strengths and qualities rather than just your physical appearance. Engage in activities that boost your self-confidence and promote a healthy lifestyle.

Final Thought

If you have wondered, “What types of eating disorders are there?” Here, we have outlined six common types of eating disorders and their symptoms. 

Remember that recovery from an eating disorder is an ongoing process. It’s essential to remain patient and persistent.  Contact professionals and loved ones for support, and continue to work on developing a healthier relationship with food and your body.

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