Eating disorders are intense psychological illnesses with numerous physical implications. Though generally based on poor self-esteem, body-image or a perceived need to gain control, these disorders manifest themselves through severe calorie restriction, self-induced vomiting (a form of purging) and other extreme weight-loss efforts. These behaviors increase a person's risk for reduced bone density and osteoporosis--a condition involving brittle, easily-breakable bones. If you exhibit symptoms of an eating disorder, seek guidance from your doctor.
Anorexia
People with anorexia maintain dangerously low body weight, have distorted body image and exhibit intense fear of weight gain. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, anorexia is becoming increasingly more common, particularly among teens in industrialized countries where cultural ideals emphasize thinness as a significant attribute. Since anorexia involves severe caloric restriction, nutrient deficiency is common. Lack of calcium, vitamin D and other nutrients and maintaining low body weight are major risk factors for bone diseases, such as osteoporosis. Women with anorexia stop menstruating, a condition known as amenorrhea. Amenorrhea is another risk factor for reduced bone density and osteoporosis.
Bulimia
Bulimia involves binging and purging, or cycles that involve eating excessive amounts followed by attempts to "un-eat" food taken in through self-induced vomiting or other destructive behaviors. According to Gurze Books, a publishing house for eating disorder-related resources, women and men with bulimia are at risk for developing osteoporosis, particularly if they have struggled with anorexia in the past. Purging continually or frequently and exercising excessively often causes loss of important electrolytes, such as calcium. Calcium and electrolyte deficiencies also contribute to osteoporosis.
Eating Disorder Not Otherwise Specified
A diagnosis of an eating disorder not otherwise specified (EDNOS) means that a person struggles with eating disorder-type thoughts, feelings and/or behaviors, but does not have all of the symptoms of anorexia or bulimia. According to the National Alliance on Mental Health, cases of EDNOS are no less common, serious or worthy of treatment than other eating disorders and people who have the illness commonly develop bone problems. Those who develop purging behaviors, over-exercise or maintain dangerously low body weight are at highest risk for reduced bone density, bone fractures and osteoporosis.
