What are the social effects of eating disorders?

If you have an eating disorder you might not be aware of how much damage you are doing to your body and to your self-esteem. Although different eating disorders have different physical and emotional effects they all impair the body’s normal functioning, cause long-term health effects and significantly impact your social and emotional well-being.

What are the physical effects of eating disorders?

Anorexia

• loss of menstrual periods
• dry, brittle bones due to significant bone density loss (osteoporosis)
• dry, brittle nails and hair, or hair loss
• lowered resistance to illness (depressed immune system)
• digestive problems
• muscle loss and weakness
• severe dehydration, which can result in kidney failure
• fainting, fatigue, and overall weakness
• long-term health problems including low blood pressure, low heart rate, low body temperature, poor circulation, anaemia and stunted growth
  

Bulimia

• dehydration (can lead to irregular heartbeats, heart problems, and even death
• inflammation of the oesophagus from frequent vomiting
• tooth and gum problems
• bowel irregularity and constipation from laxative abuse
• vitamin and mineral deficiencies
• chronic kidney problems or failure
  

Binge eating disorder

• obesity and related health problems including high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, heart disease, diabetes, osteoarthritis, liver and kidney problems, certain types of cancer
• decreased mobility
• shortness of breath