Many People Do not Know Eating Disorder Symptoms

A study showed that 34 percent of adults in the UK could not identify the symptoms of eating disorders.

The Beat's YouGov survey, involving 2.108 adults and found that 79 percent of them could have physical symptoms but did not know the psychological symptoms of the disorder.

They tend to mention weight loss or thinner as a general symptom. While the psychological symptoms they know are low self-esteem or become obsessive about food.

"This study has shown us that in the UK many people still do not know how to identify eating disorders at an early stage," explains Andrew Radford, Beat's chief executive.

According to him, the results are alarming because lack of awareness can delay patients to get the care they really need as soon as possible.

Some of the most common psychological symptoms, such as listed on the Beat website, are irritable, tired, and difficulty concentrating.

"Eating disorders is a serious mental illness and when people are treated quickly after falling ill, they tend to make a quick and sustainable recovery," Radford went on.

He hopes the UK and NHS governments are investing in measures to raise awareness of early signs and symptoms. High awareness will not only improve the outcome for the suffering but also prove cost-effective for the care of the patient.

The study marked the start of the Eating Disorders Week, hoping to spread awareness of various forms of eating disorders and encourage people to recognize symptoms early on.

"Eating disorders can be a misunderstood illness and can be difficult to recognize," explained the leading nutritionist Harley Street Rhiannon Lambert.

A study showed that 34 percent of adults in the UK could not identify the symptoms of eating disorders.

"In the end, more information about eating disorders needs to be highlighted, and we should be more aware of the signs and symptoms to watch out for," Re-Nourish writer told The Independent.

"This is a life-threatening disease that should be dealt with as quickly as possible to ensure that individuals receive the help they need.The role of doctors, psychologists and nutritionists plays an important role in helping the recovery of aid, they must work together."

In addition to psychological symptoms, here are a number of behavioral signs that Beat claims to indicate an eating disorder:

- Excessive sports
- Avoid eating with others
- Social attraction and isolation
- Diet strict and avoid foods that are considered fattening
- Mood swings