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frequently asked questions

We answer some frequently asked questions about our mission and where
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Find frequently asked questions and answers from our community

We answer some questions from our community about our mission, body image, normal eating and much more! If you have a question do not hesitate to ask our friendly team…

How can Be Body Positive help me overcome my disordered eating?

Eating behaviours can be described within a spectrum from optimal eating to eating disorders, with disordered eating sitting somewhere in the middle. Disordered eating can include normalised eating behaviours such as skipping meals, overeating, undereating, binge eating and extreme dieting. It can also include other behaviours associated such as obsessive or excessive exercise. Eating disorders, on the other hand, are diagnosable conditions characterised by persistent and extreme disturbances in eating behaviour. There are different types of eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) and others. Eating disorders are accompanied by intense negative thoughts, feelings and behaviours towards food, weight and body image.  In summary, disordered eating is a more general term that encompasses a broad range of eating behaviours, while eating disorders refer to specific, diagnosed conditions with specific symptoms and criteria.
Disordered eating – a term used to describe eating difficulties that don’t require a clinical diagnosis – is becoming more common and can often be the first signs of someone developing an eating disorder. The NHS is treating record numbers of young people for eating disorders, so the need to intervene before diagnosis has become a matter of urgency. As ELFT clinician, Erica, says:  “A better eating disorders’ prognosis is linked to a shorter duration between onset of illness and start of treatment. Early intervention is therefore important to allow targeted support at a time when symptoms are more malleable and less entrenched, at times preventing the deterioration of the symptoms to developing into a full-blown eating disorder.”
There are many coping strategies for disordered eating, including:
  • Mindfulness and self-care practices, such as yoga, meditation, and exercise
  • Talking to a therapist or support group to process feelings and emotions
  • Practicing self-compassion and positive self-talk
  • Engaging in hobbies and activities that bring joy and fulfillment
  • Challenging negative thoughts and beliefs related to food and body image
  • Focusing on nourishing the body with balanced and satisfying meals
  • Reaching out to friends and loved ones for support
  • Following body positive accounts on social media, such as @bodiposipoet or @antidietriotclub
  • Seeking professional help, such as seeing a registered dietitian or seeking treatment for an eating disorder.
It's important to remember that everyone is different and what works for one person may not work for another. It's essential to find the coping strategies that work best for you and to seek help from a mental health professional if needed.
Yes, disordered eating behaviours can develop into an eating disorder, when abnormal eating habits negatively impact a person's physical and emotional well-being. If someone is struggling with disordered eating, it's important for them to seek help from a healthcare professional.
The most common side effects of an eating disorder include: Physical effects: malnutrition, electrolyte imbalances, digestive issues, weakened immune system, hormonal imbalances, cardiac problems, low blood pressure, muscle wasting, and bone density loss. Mental effects: depression, anxiety, obsessions, compulsions, distorted body image, social withdrawal, and increased risk of self-harm and suicide. Behavioural effects: restriction of food intake, binge eating, purging, excessive exercising, hoarding of food, and hiding food. Social effects: withdrawal from friendship groups, avoidance of social situations and settings that may involve food and eating, difficulty holding space for relationships with others whilst battling eating disorder thoughts.   It's important to note that eating disorders are serious mental health conditions  that require medical attention. If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, seek help from a doctor or health professional.
To help someone with disordered eating, it is important to:
  • Listen non-judgmentally: Offer support and a safe space for them to express their feelings and thoughts.
  • Be patient: The process of overcoming disordered eating can be slow and difficult, so be patient and understanding.
  • Encourage professional help: Encourage them to seek treatment from a mental health professional with experience in eating disorders.
  • Educate yourself: Learn about disordered eating and understand the impact it can have on a person's life.
  • Avoid triggering comments or actions: Avoid making comments about their appearance, weight, or food choice, such as ‘body talk’. Avoid giving advice based on your personal story as for some young people this can feel invalidating to their personal struggle, instead recognise that they are struggling and that you are there to support. 
  • Offer alternative activities: Suggest activities that do not revolve around food or body image, such as new hobbies e.g. art, craft, visiting museum, music .
  • Lead by example: Model healthy attitudes towards food, exercise, and body image.
Remember, disordered eating is a complex issue and can be difficult to overcome without professional help. Encouraging someone to seek treatment from a mental health professional is one of the most supportive things you can do.

What is the relationship between disordered eating and body image?

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