Understanding eating habits, body image, and mental health

Good nutrition is not only about what we eat, but also about how we think and feel about food and our bodies. During adolescence and young adulthood, changes in the body, social pressure, and emotional stress can sometimes affect eating patterns and self-image. Some of these patterns may develop into eating disorders or related mental health concerns.

1. What are eating disorders?

Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions that affect a person’s relationship with food, body weight, and self-image. They are not simply “dieting habits” or lifestyle choices. Instead, they involve persistent and unhealthy thoughts and behaviours around eating, often linked with emotional distress, anxiety, or low self-esteem. Eating disorders can affect physical health, emotional well-being, relationships, and daily functioning.

2. What is Anorexia Nervosa?

Anorexia Nervosa is an eating disorder where a person severely limits the amount of food they eat due to an intense fear of gaining weight. Even when underweight, they may still see themselves as overweight. This distorted body image often leads to extreme dieting, skipping meals, avoiding certain foods, or excessive control over eating. Over time, this can lead to serious physical complications such as malnutrition, weakness, hormonal changes, and organ-related health risks.

3. What is Bulimia Nervosa?

Bulimia Nervosa is an eating disorder where a person experiences repeated episodes of eating large quantities of food in a short period of time (binge eating), followed by behaviours to “compensate” for the food consumed. These may include vomiting, fasting, or excessive exercise. People with bulimia often feel a loss of control during eating episodes and may experience guilt, shame, or distress afterwards. Unlike anorexia, weight may not always appear low, making it harder to identify.

4. What causes anorexia and bulimia?

There is no single cause for eating disorders. They usually develop due to a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors. These may include pressure to look a certain way, exposure to unrealistic body standards in media, bullying or teasing about body size, traumatic experiences, perfectionism, or underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression. Genetics and family history may also play a role.

5. What are the warning signs?

Warning signs may vary, but commonly include:

• Extreme concern about body weight, shape, or calories
• Skipping meals or eating very small portions
• Avoiding eating with others
• Frequent weighing or body checking
• Sudden weight loss or fluctuations
• Frequent trips to the bathroom after meals
• Excessive exercise routines
• Mood changes such as irritability, anxiety, or withdrawal

6. Who is most at risk?

Eating disorders can affect anyone, regardless of gender, age, or background. However, adolescents and young adults are more vulnerable due to physical changes during puberty, peer pressure, and exposure to social media. People with low self-esteem, high academic or personal pressure, history of bullying, or family stress may also be at higher risk.

7. Can eating disorders affect physical health?

Yes. Eating disorders can have serious and sometimes life-threatening effects on the body. These may include malnutrition, fatigue, dizziness, digestive problems, weakened immune system, heart complications, hormonal imbalance, and delayed growth or development in young people. Mental health is also affected, leading to anxiety, depression, and social withdrawal.

8. Can eating disorders be treated?

Yes. Eating disorders are treatable, and recovery is possible with the right support. Treatment usually involves a combination of psychological counselling, nutritional support, and medical care. Early intervention is very important, as it improves recovery outcomes. Support from family, friends, and health professionals plays a key role in healing.

9. How can I support someone with an eating disorder?

Supporting someone requires patience and understanding. Avoid focusing on their appearance or weight. Instead, listen without judgment and encourage them to seek professional help. Do not pressure them to eat or criticize their behaviour. Simple emotional support, such as showing care and being present, can make a big difference in helping them feel safe to seek help.

10. Where can someone get help in Sri Lanka?

Confidential support is available for anyone experiencing concerns related to nutrition, eating habits, body image, or emotional well-being. You do not have to go through this alone, help is available through trained professionals, including counsellors and nutrition experts.

Young people can reach out to FPA Sri Lanka’s Happy Life Call Centre for private, non-judgmental support, counselling, and guidance. A qualified nutritionist is also available through FPA services to provide professional advice on healthy eating patterns and recovery support where needed.

Confidential support and guidance are available through FPA Sri Lanka services:

077 955 2979 – Bloom by FPA Sri Lanka

076 588 4881 / 076 588 4882 – Happy Life Call Centre (Call or WhatsApp)

077 989 5252 – Alokaya Counselling Centre

All services are confidential and designed to support your physical and emotional well-being in a safe and respectful environment.