How do eating disorders affect development?

How do eating disorders affect development?

How do eating disorders affect development?

We’re still learning about how eating disorders affect the brain, but we do know that development can be severely impacted by disordered eating.

It’s well understood that food is not just fuel for the body—it also fuels our brain. The brain requires nutrients to function properly, and when we don’t get enough of them from our food, the brain’s ability to develop is severely compromised. So, when someone with an eating disorder doesn’t eat enough (or eats only certain kinds of foods), their brain can’t fully develop in a healthy way.

It’s not just about nutrition either. People with eating disorders often feel a lot of shame and guilt associated with their eating patterns, which can also affect their willingness to participate in other activities that support healthy development—like sports or school work. Unfortunately, people with eating disorders are also at higher risk of depression and anxiety than most people, which can further impact their ability to participate in developmentally appropriate activities.