The Link Between Eating Disorders and Obesity

Does a link between obesity and disordered eating exist?

Often, they are not linked or discussed in tandem when considering weight-loss surgical options.

Why?

It can be difficult to diagnose the two together because not every person with a diagnosed eating disorder is (or has been obese) and not every obese person suffers from a diagnosed eating disorder.

This workshop examines the potential link between the two by focusing on the characteristics of Binge Eating Disorder (BED) and its potential impact upon obesity. It focuses on the need for strengthened dialogue between the bariatric and eating-disordered communities, so that patient decisions and outcomes are enhanced.

The session answers five key questions:

1. What are the behaviors or traits that distinguish a person with obesity and a person with obesity as an outcome of disordered eating?
2. What are the symptoms of eating-disordered patients?
3. How do people get an eating disorder?  Is it an addiction?
4. What kind of treatment is available for a person with an eating disorder who struggles with obesity?
5. Where can support resources and additional information about eating disorders be found?

 Jeff Curtiss will be presenting this program at Atlanta's Lighten Up Expo on February 27, 2010. For more information and scheduling on this enlightening workshop, contact Jeff now.