EATING D*

DISORDERS OF EATING

Eating disorders are characterized by anomalies in eating behavior and associated abnormalities.  The two major conditions in this category are anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa.

Anorexia Nervosa: It is a misnomer as loss of appetite is a rare symptom. It is a serious and sometimes fatal condition characterized by self-imposed dietary restrictions leading to malnutrition and severe weight loss. 

Bulimia Nervosa: This is characterized by episodes of uncontrollable excessive eating (binges) followed by vigorous weight-reducing measures.  As in anorexia nervosa there is extreme pre-occupation with the shape and weight of the body, which is the core psychopathology in both cases.

Obesity: The terms ‘obesity’ and ‘overweight’ are often used synonymously. Whereas overweight refers to a relative state, obesity refers to excessive body fat.

Body Mass Index (BMI), also known as Quetelet’s Index is equal to Weight – in Kilograms) divided by (Height in Meters) ^2.

Grade I                                      BMI                                               Weight

(Mild)                                       25-30                           20% to 40% above standard figure

Grade II                                     BMI                                                Weight

(Moderate)                                30 - 40                           40% to 100% of overweight

Grade III                                    BMI                                                Weight

(Severe)                                      40                                      100% overweight or above