What is the relationship between disordered eating and body image?

It’s a classic chicken and egg scenario. Disordered eating and body image are often closely related, as negative body image can lead to disordered eating behaviours, such as restrictive dieting, binge eating, or purging. Conversely, disordered eating can negatively impact one’s body image and self-esteem. Disordered eating can be a coping mechanism for individuals with poor body image, and both conditions can perpetuate each other, leading to a cycle of negative thoughts and behaviours.