Food Restriction and Starvation

• severe sensitivity to the cold
• reduced bone density and osteoporosis
• fertility problems/infertility
• kidney dysfunction
• reduced metabolic rate leading to slow heart rate, low blood pressure, reduced body temperature and bluish coloured extremities
• growth of down-like body hair
• headaches
• changes in hair, skin and nails (dry, brittle)
• cardiac irregularities
• muscle wasting or weakness
• constipation or diarrhoea
• hormonal irregularities
• oedema (retention of body fluid giving a ‘puffy’ appearance)
• easy bruising
• anaemia (iron deficiency)
• fainting
• heartburn
• abdominal pain
• stunting of height/growth
• hypoglycaemia (low blood glucose levels) which can cause confusion, illogical thinking, coma, shakiness, irritability and fatigue
• reduced concentration, memory and thinking ability
  

Vomiting can cause:

• erosion of tooth enamel
• sore throat, indigestion and heartburn
• abdominal pain and bloating
• enlarged salivary glands
• electrolyte imbalance resulting in cardiac arrhythmia, muscle fatigue and cramps
  

Laxative misuse can cause:

• bowel problems, constipation, diarrhoea, cramps
• dehydration which impairs body functioning
• weakening of bowel which may to lead difficultly with bowel movements
• bleeding which can lead to anaemia
• bowel disease
• electrolyte imbalance
  

Emotional and Psychological Consequences of Eating Disorders

Eating disorders place tremendous emotional strain on people. Left unattended eating disorders can destroy the quality of a person’s life and are potentially life threatening.

• anxiety, anxiety disorders
• depression
• obsessive behaviour
• social isolation/withdrawal
• irritability/moodiness
• difficulty with relationships
• suicidal thoughts or behaviour
• drug misuse
• poor quality of life
• lack of assertiveness
• sensitivity to criticism
• guilt, self-dislike
• impaired achievement at school, work etc