Eating disorders are serious psychiatric illnesses characterized by persistent restrictive, compulsive, or compensatory behaviors that compromise physical health and quality of life. According to the DSM-5-TR and ICD-11, the following stand out:

• Anorexia Nervosa: Restriction of food intake leading to significantly low body weight, intense fear of gaining weight, and distorted body image.
• Bulimia Nervosa: Recurrent episodes of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors (self-induced vomiting, laxatives, prolonged fasting, or excessive exercise).
• Compulsive Disorder: Compulsive eating: Frequent binge eating without compensatory behaviors, accompanied by guilt and shame.

These conditions may alternate or coexist over time, requiring careful differential diagnosis.

Causes and Risk Factors of Eating Disorders

• Genetics and biology – estimated heritability between 40 % and 60 %; alterations in reward circuits and drive regulation.
• Sociocultural pressure – Idealization of thinness, social media, pressure in sports focused on aesthetics.
• Personality traits Perfectionism, need for control, intolerance of uncertainty.
• History of trauma or abuse – sexual abuse or bullying related to weight and appearance.
• Family environment – frequent criticism of the body, rigid dietary practices, or overprotection.
• Restrictive diets – “Diet cycling” and prolonged fasting can trigger binge eating and loss of control.