Weight gain and associated health issues have emerged as a pressing concern in contemporary society, particularly as lifestyles become increasingly sedentary. This has led to a growing prevalence of "fad" diets, many of which are believed to pose significant health risks. A recent incident involving an 18-year-old girl from Kerala, who weighed a mere 24 kg, has underscored the dangers of extreme dieting and the eating disorder known as anorexia nervosa. This case serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with following online diet trends without professional guidance, as well as the dangers of body image issues, especially among the youth. Reports indicate that the young woman was motivated by an online weight-loss program that emphasized water fasting. A sudden and drastic alteration in her dietary habits resulted in tragic consequences. It is crucial to understand anorexia nervosa and its impact on health.

18-year-old from Kerala dies due to extreme dieting

An 18-year-old from Kerala has tragically passed away due to the severe repercussions of extreme dieting. Sree Nanda, a resident of Meruvambai, reportedly went nearly six months without consuming food, subsisting solely on hot water. She had been adhering to extreme weight-loss strategies, including a water-fasting diet promoted by various online platforms, which adversely affected her health. Twelve days ago, she was admitted to the hospital in critical condition and placed in the intensive care unit (ICU).

Medical professionals confirmed that she weighed approximately 24 kilos and was entirely bedridden. Her levels of sugar, salt, and blood pressure were alarmingly low, necessitating ventilator support; however, her condition did not improve. Despite the medical team's efforts to stabilize her, she ultimately succumbed to her condition. Doctors diagnosed her with anorexia nervosa, an eating disorder characterized by severe weight loss and significant health complications.

Your body cannot sustain only on water. Image courtesy: Freepik

What is anorexia nervosa?

Anorexia nervosa is a severe mental health disorder characterized by an intense fear of weight gain and a distorted perception of one's body size and shape. Individuals affected by this condition often engage in extreme dietary restrictions, leading to significant and potentially dangerous weight loss. It transcends a mere eating disorder, encompassing profound emotional and psychological ramifications.

Research published by StatPearls indicates that individuals with anorexia may perceive themselves as overweight, even when they are severely underweight. They may resort to drastic measures to control their weight, including excessive exercise, prolonged fasting, or purging behaviors, which are less common among those who are merely obese. This disorder can lead to severe health complications due to the body's lack of essential nutrients necessary for proper functioning.

Symptoms of anorexia nervosa

Here are some common symptoms of anorexia nervosa, as found in a study published by StatPearls.

• Significant weight loss or being underweight
• Fatigue, weakness, or dizziness
• Thinning hair or hair loss
• Dry skin
• Constantly feeling cold
• Irregular menstrual cycles
• A distorted self-image, perceiving oneself as overweight despite being thin
• Consuming very little food or avoiding specific food groups
• Preoccupation with food, weight, and caloric intake
• Experiencing feelings of sadness, anxiety, or irritability

What are the causes of anorexia nervosa?

Common causes of anorexia nervosa include:

1. Genetic factors

Genetic influences can markedly heighten an individual's susceptibility to anorexia nervosa. Although these factors do not directly cause the disorder, certain inherited genetic traits may predispose individuals to characteristics such as perfectionism, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive behaviors, which are frequently observed in those affected by the condition, as indicated by research published in the International Journal of Child Adolescents Health. In essence, genetics can establish a biological groundwork that, when coupled with various psychological and environmental stressors, elevates the likelihood of developing anorexia. Thus, it is not accurate to say that a gene "causes" anorexia; rather, specific genes may render an individual more vulnerable.

2. Trauma

Psychological trauma, including experiences of abuse or significant emotional turmoil, can serve as a contributing factor to anorexia nervosa. For some individuals, the act of restricting food intake may become a means of regaining control over their bodies and emotions following feelings of helplessness, as noted in a study published in the European Journal of Psychotraumatology. Anorexia may also manifest as a form of self-punishment or a strategy to dull the painful emotions linked to the traumatic event. Essentially, the eating disorder can function as an ineffective coping mechanism for unresolved trauma.

Peer pressure can play a crucial role in the development of anorexia nervosa. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock

3. Peer pressure

Social influence, particularly during the adolescent years, can significantly impact the onset of anorexia nervosa. Adolescents are especially susceptible to social comparisons and the desire to conform. If their peer group prioritizes thinness or engages in dieting behaviors, individuals may feel compelled to comply, sometimes to detrimental extremes, as highlighted in a study published in the Journal of Obesity. This can lead to distorted body image perceptions and the adoption of restrictive eating practices in pursuit of acceptance or to evade social ostracism.

How to prevent anorexia nervosa?

Preventing anorexia nervosa presents a complex challenge that necessitates addressing multiple factors. Nevertheless, there are several strategies that may help reduce the risk, particularly among younger populations, as suggested by dietician Gauri Anand.

1. Promote healthy body image

Encourage individuals to adopt a healthy and realistic perspective on body size and shape. Highlight the notion that beauty exists in various forms. Challenge societal norms and media representations that endorse unrealistic standards of thinness. Refrain from making disparaging remarks about your own body or that of others.

2. Foster healthy eating habits

Encourage a balanced and nutritious diet instead of restrictive eating patterns. Advocate for regular meal consumption and discourage the practice of skipping meals. Emphasize the pleasure of food and its importance in providing energy and sustenance.

3. Limit exposure to harmful influences

Be aware of the effects of social media and online content that advocate unhealthy dieting practices or unrealistic body image ideals. Foster critical analysis of media messages.

It is vital to create a nurturing and accepting atmosphere to help prevent anorexia nervosa. Additionally, always seek medical advice if you observe any warning signs of anorexia nervosa.

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