We now live in a society where looks seem to matter more than anything else. That’s why a growing number of people are developing various eating disorders at an alarming rate. To help people in their pursuit of Instagram perfection, so many apps have been developed to help people lose weight. But there are a few apps that are doing more harm than good.
How calorie counting apps are worsening eating disorders
Creators program calorie counting apps to serve as a guide for people who try to maintain a reasonable diet. But the BBC found out that people use some of these mobile apps to excess, and in some cases, wind up hurting themselves. They even use them to indicate when they deserve punishments whenever they overeat. That’s why most experts believe that using these mobile apps could trigger the development of unhealthy behavior and over time, establishing an eating disorder. The BBC’s investigation was able to extract data from users of various apps that indicated dangerous cycles of binging and starving. Medical specialists believe that it’s unlikely for people to develop eating disorders because of the app. But developers should show more support to sufferers by moderating their content.
Most people who suffer from eating disorders tend to get obsessed with the calories that they intake. That’s why they keep track of how much they consume by using apps. These should ensure that users seek the advice of a medical professional before engaging in any drastic weight loss initiatives.
Practicing regular eating for those who have an eating disorder
Most adults with eating disorders often undergo cognitive behavioral therapy to help them with their recovery. They’ll have various treatment options for binge eating available to them once they decide to proceed with their treatment. Once they start with their program, a professional will help them develop a pattern of regular eating. This pattern will also be a part of their cognitive-behavioral therapy, and often includes three meals and two to three light snacks.
At the start of the treatment, Very Well Mind suggests focusing on the timing and structure of eating, instead of what you’re eating. Later in the procedure, your therapist will address the issues that you have with your food, such as those that you don’t want to eat.
Another way to help you stay on track is through monitoring your regular meals during the entire day. Your observations should include any instances of purging or binging, as well as any other behaviors that are symptomatic of eating disorders.
The fears about regular eating
One of the most common fears of those with eating disorders is gaining weight. People who have this kind of disorder often avoid knowing their weight. On the other hand, some who suffer from this disorder check their weights as much as they can. Obsessing over one’s weight is unhealthy and could lead to poor health practices, in the same way that neglect of one’s weight can.
On the whole, it may take time for people to recover from their eating disorder. So, you need to show support in any way that you can to make them feel that you care.
