The Relationship Between Eating Disorders and Gastrointestinal Disorders
Gastrointestinal disorders can cause severe pain and discomfort. Gastrointestinal symptoms are nearly universal among individuals with eating disorders or disordered eating. There is also a high possibility that individuals with gastrointestinal disorders may develop disordered eating behaviors over time as a way to manage their symptoms.
by: Amanda Nussbaum
Eating disorders are severe, potentially life-threatening mental health disorders which, if not properly addressed, can result in serious mental and physical health consequences. Individuals with eating disorders are very likely to experience gastrointestinal (GI) issues. Up to 98% of people of women with eating disorders also have at least one digestive disorder, but people with gastrointestinal disorders are also vulnerable to displaying eating disorder behaviors.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a digestive disorder that impacts the motor function of the gastrointestinal tract, causing food to not properly make its way through the digestive tract. Although food does not cause IBS, people often believe that food is the cause of their abdominal pain, heartburn, bloating or cramping. To help avoid this pain or other symptoms, it is not uncommon for those with IBS to alter their diet by eating less or eliminating certain foods altogether. Medical providers may even categorize foods as “safe” or “unsafe” for those with IBS, and, although not intentional, these unnecessary interventions could lead to disordered eating behaviors. One study concluded that 40% of teenagers with IBS skip meals and 13% induce vomiting after eating to help manage their discomfort. Similarly, other studies show that 41-52% of people with anorexia or bulimia also struggle with IBS.
In addition to IBS, Irritable Bowel Disease (IBD) is a blanket term used to describe disorders that involve chronic inflammation of the digestive tract, such as Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative Colitis. Similar to IBS, these diseases often result in, among other symptoms, abdominal pain, vomiting, gas, bloating, reduced appetite, and weight loss. The development of a poor body image and self-esteem can also be influenced by IBS or IBD.
Although gastrointestinal disorders can lead to disordered eating, those with eating disorders are susceptible to developing gastrointestinal issues as well. For example, those with bulimic behaviors may experience acid reflux, swollen parotid glands, chronic stomach pain, loss of muscle tone in the esophagus, indigestion, trouble swallowing, bloating, or heartburn. Someone who struggles with restrictive-type behaviors can develop gastroparesis, which occurs when the stomach is partially paralyzed and the movement of food from the stomach to the small intestine is slowed or stopped. As a result, food takes more time to make its way through the digestive tract. According to the Centre for Clinical Interventions, digestion also takes longer as a result of a decreased production of essential hormones and enzymes that are needed for the digestion process. Those who limit their food intake may also experience trapped gas, bloating, and abdominal pain, which can contribute to IBS. Similarly, eating sugar-free foods and fruits as well as vegetables that contain high levels of fiber can also add to gastrointestinal discomfort and result in bloating, gas or constipation.
There is also a connection between digestive disorders and Avoidant / Restrictive Intake Food Disorder (ARFID). People with IBD typically know which foods to stay away from to avoid flare-ups. However, Kimberly Harer, MD, a gastroenterologist, at the Michigan Medicine at the University of Michigan, believes an extensive list of “off-limit” foods can lead to ARFID, an eating disorder seen in individuals who develop a fear of certain foods based on numerous factors including their texture, smell, appearance or color. Some people with ARFID may also be afraid of what will happen to their IBD symptoms if they consume certain foods, which is also referred to as “conditioned food aversion”. It may be difficult to distinguish whether someone is managing IBD symptoms or struggling with ARFID, but it is believed that those with IBD observe their symptoms, test different foods, and pay attention to how their body responds, whereas someone with ARFID tends to stick to a minimal list of foods because they are more fearful of the actual food.
There is an apparent link between gastrointestinal disorders and eating disorders. Every person’s situation is unique, and it is important for those struggling with these disorders to talk with their dietitian and treatment team about concerns and symptoms. The psychological and physical effects of digestive and eating disorders should be addressed as early as possible to prevent any worsening of these conditions. With the right help, managing symptoms of both a digestive disorder and an eating disorder is possible.
At BALANCE eating disorder treatment center™, our compassionate, highly skilled team of clinicians is trained to diagnose and treat the spectrum of eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, compulsive overeating, and other disordered eating behaviors and body image issues. Our admissions team would be happy to answer any questions you may have about our programs and services. Book a free consultation call with our admissions team below or read more about our philosophy here.
This post was written by BALANCE Marketing Assistant, Amanda Nussbaum.
Amanda is a recent graduate of Ramapo College, where she majored in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing. She enjoys being creative, writing, and editing videos, and is passionate about health, wellness, and lifestyle. Throughout college, Amanda volunteered with the Girls on the Run organization, which helps young girls develop a positive self-esteem. She also mentored a young girl through Ramapo College’s chapter of Big Brother, Big Sister. Amanda’s involvement in these organizations helped her realize that she wants to work for a company that has an impact on others, while still being creative with marketing. In the future, Amanda hopes to work in the marketing or communications department of an organization that focuses on teenagers and young adults, and their health and self-confidence. She enjoys contributing to the BALANCE blog!