Understanding and addressing eating disorders

Eating disorders include conditions such as excessive and unhealthy reductions in food intake or overeating, distress, and overuse of body shape and weight. Some of the most recognizable among society are anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating and orthorexia. Eating disorders are very often diagnosed at a late stage of the disease and curability is quite difficult. A multidisciplinary approach and lifelong efforts are needed in order to address such conditions. The psychology of eating disorders has been widely studied over the years. However, very few guidelines address the re-feeding process of the people involved. This review focuses on the nutritional point of view of eating disorders and can be a valuable addition to treatment of these serious conditions.