Monday Myths: Eating Disorders

‘Monday Myths’ is a new segment on Missy.ie, where we state facts about certain topics, and you decide if you believe them to be true or false. We’ll then let you know whether it’s true or not.

This week’s topic is…Eating Disorders.

Let’s see how true these eating disorder myths are…

Eating disorders are centred around food…

False

While eating disorders ofen involve obsessive calorie counting, eating disorders manifest in a number of different ways that aren’t always necessarily to do with food, such as over-exercising, binging and purging.

Eating disorders don’t develop until your teen years…

False

Eating disorders don’t discriminate when it comes to age! While they are typically seen as something teenagers struggle with, many adults and young chrildren suffer from eating disorders of many different kinds.

Eating disorders can affect all genders…

True

There is an assumption that eating disorders are illnesses that really only affect teenage girls but this is so far from the truth. Eating disorders can affect people of all genders and ages. This stigma can make it hard for people to admit they are struggling. Talking more about eating disorders can make it easier for people to get the help they need.

You only have an eating disorder if you are underweight…

False

Another common stigma surrounding eating disorders is they are only an issue if you are underweight. You can have an eating disorder regardless of if you are underweight, a healthy weight or overweight.

Were you surprised by any of these eating disorder myths?