Gossip websites were quick to point out previous rumors of drug abuse and anorexia — both of which can contribute to cardiovascular issues. However, Murphy’s mother has publicly claimed that her daughter suffered from type 2 diabetes which, if true, better explains the cardiac arrest responsible for killing her.

The speculation is just another example of how prevalent eating disorders are in our society. In fact, a new study by Canadian researchers from the Canadian Institutes for Health Research has found that 10 to 15 percent of women suffer from some sort of eating disorder.

“Our results are disquieting,” said Lise Gauvin, a professor Université de Montréal Department of Social and Preventive Medicine and leader of the study, “Women are exposed to many contradictory messages. They are encouraged to lose weight yet also encouraged to eat for the simple pleasure of it.”

The media bombards women with images of what they consider “beautiful” — depicted as women who are skinny yet have curves. These images can strain the self-confidence of women young and old, pressuring them to conform to the media’s depictions of attractiveness.

Contrary to common belief, anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa, though the most common, only make up a small portion of eating disorders. Binge eating, night eating, or orthorexia are other examples that are often not considered an eating disorder. In fact, eating disorders are any psychological condition (an illness) that is characterized by insufficient or excessive food intake.

The study surveyed over 1,500 women and found that approximately 13.7% of women reported binge eating and 2.5% of women reported the use of laxatives, diuretics, or induced vomiting to maintain weight or shape.

Additionally, the study found that 28 percent of women exercise intently for twice a month — just to lose weight. This finding is indicative of the many different signs of eating disorders that may not normally be considered.

“Our data suggests that a proportion of the female population displays maladaptive eating pattern,” said Dr. Gauvin.

Women, young and old, perpetually struggle between society’s perceived image of a “beautiful woman” and the cries of their bodies to eat healthily (supplemented by TV commercials of steaks and fries). The result: 1 in 10 women suffer from eating disorders.

Increased awareness on eating disorders and their impact on women may slowly change our society from one that forces two contradictory expectations to one that accepts women as beautiful, regardless of their dress size. As such, Disorder.org is focusing its efforts on spreading this awareness through informational articles and guest posts on the topic of eating disorders of all types.

As such, Disorder.org is focusing its efforts on spreading this awareness in support of women struggling with the issue.

Eating disorders can attack anybody at any time, particularly teenagers and younger youth. With the many social pressures that they face on a daily basis, ranging from magazine ads displaying pin-up, perfect-looking girls to peer pressure, eating disorders can affect more than just the body. For example, anorexia, one of the most common eating disorders, can keep a person out of a proper social life if they constantly refuse to eat or through social withdrawal.

An eating disorder can be a very serious problem. In addition to the social withdrawal that comes with the disorder, chronic health problems or even death may occur in very severe situations. Furthermore, eating disorders may lead to other psychological disorders such as depression, obsessive compulsive disorder or personality disorders.

Anorexia nervosa and bulimia are the two most common eating disorders among teens. A person with anorexia has an extreme fear of gaining weight, to the point where he or she refuses to eat — leading to severe weight loss, to a point where it is unhealthy. Bulimia, another common eating disorder, characterized by binge eating and compensatory behaviors, usually in the form of defensive vomiting, or purging.

So what can you do to help a friend that you suspect may have an eating disorder? Follow these tips:

1. Show that you care

When you first approach your friend, show that you care for them. Explain that you are worried about their health, and listen to their story (or anything they have to say) sympathetically. Be persistent with your approach. Remember, ignoring their problem is not how you should show your love.

2. Be positive

The negative body image that people with eating disorders have is the root for their problems. Encourage your friend with positive statements by pointing out strengths and complimenting his or her talents. Always be supportive and show your friend that you believe in him or her, it will make a difference.

3. Empathize and sympathize

Empathize with your friend’s fear and shame, and sympathize with their situation. However, it is important that you let your friend know that his or her behaviors are destructive.

4. Be a friend

Being a good friend by bringing your friend to movies, concerts, or anything entertaining can keep their mind off of their weight. Show that you love them by dedicating your time to them.

5. Be yourself

While you are sharing your feelings and encouraging your friend to fix their disorder, always be honest with who you are. Don’t change your eating habits just because of your friend.

Many people who suffer from an eating disorder are in danger of physical and mental damage, regardless of whether they look underweight, overweight, or even average. There are many symptoms that can be a sign of a possible eating disorder. Understanding the many eating disorder symptoms can help you identify an eating disorder in a loved one and take action to intervene.

There are millions in the United States suffering from eating disorders, most of whom will not acknowledge their disorder, let alone seek help. Here are a number of symptoms for the most common eating disorders to help you determine whether or not a loved one is one of them:

1. Extensive weight gain or weight loss in a short period of time – as mentioned earlier, the most common eating disorder is dramatic weight gain or weight loss.

2. Unhealthy focus on weight – a sufferer may comment on his or her weight in a negative fashion or constantly engulf his or herself with weight loss thoughts, regardless of relative weight to others the same age or height.

3. Unhealthy focus on nutrition – particularly the amount of calories or the amount of fat in the foods he or she eats.

4. Going to the bathroom often, especially after meals – more a symptom of bulimia than an eating disorder symptom, the sufferer will often turn on the faucet or continually flush the toilet to hide sounds.

5. Constant, obvious binging – many people will binge, but someone with an eating disorder such as binge eating disorder will binge constantly and extensively.

6. Low self-esteem – a mental and social symptom that becomes more and more obvious as the eating disorder continues, low self-esteem often accompanies eating disorders leading to a need for acceptance and negative feeling towards the self.

7. Mood swings – rapid changing of moods over a short period of time, often more than once in a day (including depression)

8. Constant dieting – those with an eating disorder may try to hide it behind the veil of a diet, even if not necessary.

9. Pale skin and hair loss – anorexia, bulimia, and other eating disorder can take a heavy toll on the body leading to weakness.

10. Hiding food – depending on the disorder, sufferers may hide food in strange places to either eat at a later time or avoid eating.

As you can see, the many eating disorder symptoms range from physical to mental. Keep these eating disorder symptoms in mind when you suspect a loved one may need help — you just might become the advocate they need to get through it.

While environmental and social issues are often the main causes of the eating disorders, there are many factors that can contribute to the development of eating disorders. In fact, the factors range from emotional, psychological, interpersonal, and behavioral, and all attack the physical and emotional strength of the sufferer.

Sufferers will often turn to destructive eating habits to deal with negative feelings and emotions. Whether they were caused by friends, commercials, or magazines, these habits can cause damage to the physical and mental health to the sufferer.

Here is a list of factors that have been found to contribute to eating disorders:

1. Problematic Relationships

When an individual is suffering from a stressful relationship with a loved one, they may be more inclined to compensate with an eating disorder. Family history is also a big factor, as a history of abuse or difficulty expressing emotion can attack the capability to deal of the individual.

2. Low Self-esteem

Low self-esteem can be caused by many different things, but ultimately lead to feelings of inadequacy. Eating disorders are a way for individuals to gain control of their lives and fight the negative feelings they have towards themselves. Low self-esteem can also be a problem when an individual is constantly teased about their weight, especially by peers in school.

3. Negative Emotions

Emotions such as depression, anger, or loneliness can cause eating disorders, as the individual may expressive these negative emotions through negative eating habits. Working through these emotions through counseling or other therapy can help treat an eating disorder.

4. Social Factors

As mentioned before, social factors play a large part in causing eating disorders. From cultural pressures to cultural norms, much of society’s opinion on attractiveness lies in the body shape and thinness of a person. The way that beauty is defined in the American society places extreme pressure on the individual to maintain a certain weight relative to their height, and stay “fit” to stay attractive. As such, the combination of cultural expectations and social definitions of beauty can cause a young boy or girl to develop an eating disorder.

5. Biological Factors

Research has found that eating disorders often run through families. In addition to having genetic ties, eating disorders are also tied to biological causes. For example, chemical imbalances in the brain has been found to cause problems in eating habits that often contribute to eating disorders.

All of these factors play a part in the development of eating disorders. However, it is usually not just one or even two factors that causes an onset of an eating disorder. As such, it is important to keep all possible causes in mind to fully understand the reason behind the destructive eating habits that you or a loved one may be experiencing.

For more serious cases of eating disorders, however, severe bodily damage may occur. The truth is, an eating disorder can take a toll on the young body, causing health problems that almost never occur in normal, healthy youth. Some cases may be more serious than others, but one thing is for sure: the dangers of an eating disorder are well documented.

Here are 5 physicial effects of eating disorders:

1. Malnutrition

The most obvious danger of eating disorders is malnutrition, or deficiency for energy, protein, and micronutrients such as vitamins, iodine, or iron. Malnutrition is caused by a lack of calories and corrent nutrient in the daily diet, usually a result of improper eating, or intentional starving. When all the nutrients in your body are used up, malnutrition is reached. Malnutrition can lead to the exhaustion of other bodily nutrients — leading to damaged hair or weakened bones.

2. Heart Attack

Youth suffering from eating disorders may in fact have a heart attack! Eating disorders can cause electrolytic imbalances, triggering hypercalcemia or hyperkalemia, the main causes of heart attacks. The electrolytic imbalances can cause abnormalities that lead to serious side effects – heart disease included.

3. Dehydration

Dehydration is caused by the depletion or lack of fluid intake in the body. Vomiting or laxative abuse can cause dehydration, and can cause dizziness and weakness. Dehydration can lead to kidney failure, heart failure, brain damage, and even death.

4. Amenorrhea

Amenorrhea is the loss of menstrual cycle, or periods, in women. A low body mass index and low body fat levels disable the body’s ability to menstrual. Amenorrhea can cause a loss of calcium from the bones, loss of bone density and the loss of the ability to have children.

5. Hyponatremia

Hyponatremia is the deficiency of sodium in the blood. If one drinks too much water (and not electrolytes), especially if someone is already malnourished or dehydrated, can cause fluid in the lungs, nausea, vomiting, and even death.

As you can see, the negative health effects of eating disorders can be very severe and even fatal. In addition to the 5 listed above, there are many other negative health effects, including diabetes, insomnia, and anemia. The list goes on and one. For many suffering from eating disorders, the scope of physical damage is lost in their obsession with their weight and appearance. If you know somebody suffering from an eating disorder, or suspect that he or she may be suffering from an eating disorder, do something about it. Showing you care may make a bigger impact on their health than you could ever imagine.

For example, according to the American Journal of Psychiatry, approximately 10 to 15% of people suffering from anorexia or bulimia are male, proving the misconception that eating disorders primarily affect women to be wrong.  In fact, men constitute 40% of all of those exhibiting Binge Eating Disorder and 1 in 5 males would trade 3 to 5 years of their life to achieve their ideal body weight.

Other eating disorder statistics bolster already known issues — such as the prevalence of eating disorders among the youth.  It is no secret that young men and women face pressures not only from the media, but from their peers.  A girl walking through her high school may see many girls that they are jealous of, and feel insecure.  This insecurity, along with a lack of self-esteem, can very well lead to an eating disorder.

In fact, the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders reported eating disorder statistics that found that 11% of high school students have been diagnosed with an eating disorder.  Additionally, 90% of those with eating disorders are women between the ages of 12 and 25, which leads to significant concerns about the pre-teen population.

Maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle during childhood is extremely important.  The body requires the proper nutrients to cultivate the young organs, muscles, and bones of a child.  Surprisingly, 42% of 1st-3rd grade girls want to be thinner and 46% of 9-11 year-olds are “sometimes” or “very often” on diets.  It is also surprising to hear that 81% of 10 year olds are afraid of being fat, and 51% of 9 and 10 year old girls feel better about themselves if they are on a diet.

These eating disorder statistics are frightening, as dieting at a young age can present many health problems, such as weakened bones.  Dieting at a young age has been found to actually cause more weight gain in the long run and contribute to long-term eating disorders.

The dangers that an eating disorder can have to overall health are staggering as well.  The American Journal of Psychiatry found that 5 to 10 percent of anorexics die within 10 years of onset and 18-20 percent die within 20 years of onset.  Furthermore, a young woman with anorexia is 12 times more likely to die than other women of the same age.  Suicide and heart problems are common consequences of an eating disorder.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 1 in 5 women struggle from an eating disorder or disordered eating.  The issue is particularly severe in the United States, where up to 25 million Americans suffer from eating disorders.  Compared to the 70 million suffering worldwide, it is clear that there are social and cultural implications that make the issues especially prevalent in the United States.

That being said, the young women and men that suffer from disordered eating are in need of help.  Hopefully, these eating disorder statistics raise some eyebrows and raise awareness.  By raising awareness about the issue and the impact that the issue is having on the American population, victims of eating disorders may receive the help they need.  Whether they receive it through their friends, family, or professionally, outside help is essential in overcoming such a tough psychological, mental, and physical battle.

For many of those 24 million Americans, finding an eating disorder treatment is at the bottom of their priorities list. Eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia attack the self-esteem and confidence of their victims, leaving them in a world where body image and weight control reign supreme over family, friends, and health.

While victims may deny the need for an eating disorder treatment, eating disorders can be extremely hazardous to one’s health. For example, failing to ingest the proper vitamins and nutrients can lead to weakened muscles, bones, and immune system as well as cause heart complications and suicidal thoughts. As such, finding treatment for such a dangerous illness should, in fact, be at the top of their priorities.

Eating disorder treatment usually involves some sort of psychotherapy or counseling, as this has been found to be the most effective and long-lasting treatment available. Here are 3 common treatments for eating disorders:

1. Nutritional counseling

As bad eating habits are synonymous with eating disorders, working with a dietitian or nutritionist can help a victim develop a healthier lifestyle. A dietitian can assist in creating a healthy meal plan, set goals, and strive for healthy weight. A nutritionist can assist in educating about basic nutrition and health consequences of eating disorders.

2. Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy can be broken into two distinct forms: individual and group therapy. In individual therapy, a victim will have the opportunity to mentally explore the reasons for their eating disorder, whether is it stemming from family issues, peer pressure, or any other reason. Doing so can improve self-esteem and self-awareness, as well as learn how to deal with stress and emotions in a healthy manner. Group therapy allows an individual to share experiences and problems with others struggling with the same issues.

3. Medical Treatment

While medical eating disorder treatment in a hospital or other health system may not solve the deep-rooted issues of eating disorders, it may be required when severe physical or behavioral issues are affecting the individual’s health and well-being. As such, medical treatment is not a long-term treatment option.

Support groups can also be very beneficial as an eating disorder treatment by purging feelings of loneliness and shame. Each of these treatments are meant to work with each other, as not one thing can cover all of the problems of an eating disorder. A steady combination of a good diet, psychotherapy, and proper care can save many lives. Awareness on the issue may bring more people to step up and advocate for a loved one struggling with an eating disorder.

In addition to requiring your support, your loved one’s eating disorder recovery may take an extended period of time. This fact may cause discouragement and skepticism to your loved one and, therefore, it is important to continue to exercise patience. Do not set impossible or overambitious goals. Here are few tips to remember when support a loved one through their eating disorder recovery:

1. Remain Positive

If you are supporting a loved one through their recovery, staying positive is the most important thing to remember. As previously mentioned, eating disorder recovery is not a short process. It is likely going to be a roller coaster ride, with many highs and lows. Remain a positive role model and encouraging advocate for healthier living. Always remember to avoid making negative statements about weight and body image, especially your own.

2. Listen Intently

Your loved one is likely experiencing a whirlwind of emotions and feelings. As his or her support, make it your priority to listen and not give your own advice. You may discourage them by “offering advice” when, to them, you are unable to understand what they are going through. Listening with an open attitude will let your loved one know that you care, and are sticking with them until the end.

3. Educate Yourself

Educating yourself can help you become the advocate that your loved one needs. If you are better educated about the particular eating disorder your loved one is suffering from, as well as other eating disorders, you can be better equipped to assist them through their recovery. Look into the different treatments of eating disorders as well.

4. Don’t Forget Yourself

At times, you may feel like are too overburdened with helping your friend. For you to be the best advocate for your loved one, you have to be positive and stable. Always remember to have your own avenue of releasing feelings and emotions. Helping a loved one through his or her eating disorder recovery can be an uplifting experience, but getting bottled up into somebody else’s troubles can only cause more troubles for yourself.

Eating disorder recovery is a long process that requires treatment, discipline, and support for the recovering individual. If a loved one is struggling through this tough time, remember these tips to be an advocate who will support, encourage, and push him or her toward a healthier lifestyle.

However, many of the resources only have general information. Here are 10 things that you probably did not know about eating disorders:

1. The average bulimic binges approximately 3,400 calories in just over one hour.

In fact, bulimics consume up to 20,000 calories in binges that can last up to 8 hours. The average teenager eats about 2,000 to 3,000 total calories per day.

2. Biochemical or biological factors can contribute to eating disorders.

Recent research has found that inherited biological and genetic factors can contribute to over 50% of the risk in developing an eating disorder. Studies have found that abnormalities in the hypothalamus, a brain structure that regulates eating behaviors, can contribute to eating disorders.

3. Family influence can contribute greatly to eating disorders.

Though biological factors can contribute to eating disorders, family and environmental issues play a large part in the onset and retention of eating disorders. Pressures from the family can overstep healthy emotional boundaries and cause unhealthy behavior in teenagers or, in this case, eating disorders.

4. Apart from anorexia and bulimia, there are many other eating disorders.

One thing that most people do not know about eating disorders is that there are dozens of different types ranging from pica (where the individual eats non-food items) to night-eating.

5. While the average women is 5′4″ and weighs 140 pounds, the average model is 5′11″ and weights 117 pounds.

Most fashion models are thinner than 98% of American women. It comes as no surprise then that young girls are pressured to be thin.

6. Anorexia is the 3rd most common chronic illness among adolescents.

7. Bulimia is more common in athletes than non-athletes.

Bulimia especially affects gymnasts, wrestlers, dancers, football players, and other athletes who are pressured to stay fit.

8. Only 1 in 10 people with eating disorders receive treatment.

This interesting fact about eating disorders shows the shame that many sufferers feel, and the difficulty of treatment and recovery.

9. 74% of American Indian girls have reported dieting and purging with diet pills.

While rates of minorities with eating disorders are similar to those of white women, it affects certain minorities more than others. For example, eating disorders are unsually common in young women from Japan.

10. The diet industry is a 50 billion dollar a year business.

The diet industry preys on fear and self-esteem, making it tough to stay positive about body image. The bombardment of what the society considers to be “beautiful” in diet advertisements is continually displayed on the Internet and billboards around the Nation.
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Even though binge eating disorder the most common eating disorder in America, very few Americans actually know and understand much about this disorder. The official definition of binge eating disorder is binging that occurs at least 2 time a week for 6 months or more and is characterized by frequent binges, or the ingestion of a large amount of food, regardless of need. Unlike bulimia, where binging is usually followed by purging, those suffering from binge eating disorder do not make an effort to purge their binge.

Many people suffer from the disorder due to an excess of stress and anxiety. To them, food becomes a crutch that replaces emotions. When a binge eater feels sad, they may find solace by diving into a gallon of ice cream. When he or she feels happy, they may celebrate with a large bag of chips.
If you find that you are suffering from the disorder, consider these ways to help you fight it:

1. Eat with your friends or significant other

Many binges are done in private, out of view of friends, family, and loved ones. Eating with others will give you a chance to socialize and feel better about yourself, while forcing yourself to be accountable to your eating habits.

2. Do not miss breakfast

Missing breakfast sets up your appetite in a way that is conducive to binge eating. If you continually miss breakfast, it only becomes increasingly easier to binge in later meals. Developing a routine for your meals will help you develop a healthy eating schedule and help you avoid unnecessary binging.

3. Track your binges

Understanding the reasons behind your binges can help you control future binges. Try to figure out what sets off your binging (stress is a common cause) so that you can be better prepared to fight it. Doing so will give you greater control over this eating disorder.

4. Neutralize emotional triggers

Emotional triggers can cause uncontrollable binging for binge eaters, whether the triggers are from stress, emotion, or situations. Sit down and figure out a way to control these emotional triggers. Consider using music, meditation, or friendship as therapy for these triggers.

5. Recognize what foods you binge on, and remove them from your house

If you constantly binge on potato chips, avoid buying them the next time you walk into the supermarket. After all, you can not binge on chips that are not in your pantry! Alternatively, consider buying lesser amounts of the foods you binge on so that you don’t give up the foods you love.

Binge eating disorder can be a crafty disorder, and may cause you to have an unhealthy relationship with food. Consider these creative ways to fight the disorder and get back on good terms with the food that once caused unhealthy eating habits. You just might surprise yourself!