People with anorexia nervosa typically have an intense fear of gaining weight, which causes them to severely restrict their food intake. This can lead to an extreme focus on food and weight, as well as an inability to recognize the seriousness of their condition and the need for medical intervention.
People with anorexia nervosa often eat very small amounts of food, and what they do eat is often extremely low in calories and unhealthy. They may avoid certain foods due to an irrational fear of weight gain. For example, they may avoid carbohydrates such as bread, pasta, and rice, as well as fatty foods like cheese and nuts. They may also restrict their intake of fruits and vegetables. People with anorexia may also use unhealthy methods to control their weight, such as excessive exercise, vomiting, or laxative abuse.
In some cases, people with anorexia nervosa may have difficulty eating due to a lack of appetite or nausea. This can lead to periods of fasting, or the person may try to replace meals with nutritional shakes or supplements. People with anorexia may also engage in binge eating, in which they consume large amounts of food in a short period of time.
Regardless of the specific eating behaviors, people with anorexia nervosa are unable to maintain a healthy weight. Treatment typically involves addressing the underlying psychological causes of the condition, such as low self-esteem or body dissatisfaction. Psychotherapy, medication, and nutritional counseling are all part of a comprehensive treatment plan for anorexia.