In today's world, beauty perception, coinciding with high school years starting in adolescence, increases pressure on youth, pushing them toward seeking an "ideal body." With the effects of intense social media use, the anxiety of being flawless is experienced from young ages. While this situation initially seems like self-discovery, it can lead people to engage in behaviors that threaten their physical and mental health over time. One of the worst situations this triggers is eating disorders, referred to as the silent cry of our age. Disorders such as anorexia nervosa emerge as psychological disturbances that go far beyond a nutrition problem, deeply affecting a person's self-perception, social relationships, and even vital functions.

Much More Than an Obsession with Weight Loss

Anorexia nervosa, which returned to the agenda recently with the death of a renowned social media influencer covered in the media, is one of the most well-known eating disorders. Particularly common in young women but also occurring in young men, this disorder is a serious health problem. People with this condition, even when well below normal weight, feel themselves to be overweight and experience intense fear of gaining weight. This fear leads them to severely restrict eating, engage in intense exercise, or attempt weight loss through unhealthy methods. Anorexia nervosa can cause serious physical and psychological health problems and, if untreated, carries a risk to life.

Regarding the subject, Specialist Dietitian Yeşim Senem Yılmaz from Infinity Regenerative Clinic draws attention to the effects of anorexia nervosa on people's body perception: "Anorexia nervosa is deeply connected with the distorted perceptions individuals develop toward their own bodies. This is not just a eating problem; it is also a reflection of the person's struggle with self-acceptance and acceptance." she said.

We Provide Nutrition Guidance

Anorexia nervosa can lead to many serious health problems in the long term, such as muscle and bone problems, fertility issues, cardiovascular problems (low blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, heart failure, etc.), brain function disorders (concentration, etc.), kidney and intestinal problems, weakened immune system, and anemia. In recent years, anorexia has emerged as one of the leading causes of death among mental health problems, and these deaths can result from physical complications or suicide.

Among the causes of eating disorders are genetic predispositions, psychological factors (depression, anxiety, trauma), social and cultural pressures (beauty standards imposed by media), biological factors (changes in brain chemistry), and family relationships. Infinity Regenerative Clinic Specialist Dietitian Yeşim Senem Yılmaz, noting that the multifaceted nature of anorexia nervosa requires a holistic approach in the treatment process, states: "Our basic principle in such disorders is to act with a holistic approach that considers not only the individual's physical health but also their spiritual and mental well-being. Success in anorexia nervosa treatment depends on the coordinated work of a multidisciplinary team (dietitian, psychiatrist, psychologist, family therapist). As nutrition experts, we aim for the patient to reach and maintain a healthy weight, while also correcting improper eating habits and helping them develop a peaceful relationship with their body. We play a guiding role in the person's struggle with themselves, providing nutrition guidance," she said.

Healthy Nutrition Habits and Overall Well-being Should Be Addressed Together

Anorexia nervosa diagnosis is made through comprehensive clinical evaluation, physical health screening, individual interviews, family history, and medical history information. At this point, criteria established by the "Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders" (DSM-5) (restricting energy intake, excessive fear of weight gain, disturbance in body perception) guide this process.

Treatment options include psychotherapy, nutrition counseling, medication in some cases, and support groups. The goal of treatment is not just to eliminate symptoms but to address the psychological, social, and biological factors underlying the disease, helping the person achieve well-being. Through personalized treatment applications within a holistic health approach, complications related to anorexia nervosa can be prevented, and support can be provided for transitioning to a healthy lifestyle.

The recovery journey for those struggling with anorexia nervosa can be a long and difficult process. However, there is considerable evidence that with proper and personalized approaches, achieving a healthy body and mind is possible. What is critical in this process is raising awareness against today's beauty pressures and steadily supporting those fighting eating disorders. It must be remembered that the love and respect a person has for themselves forms the foundation of a healthy life. This holistic approach reveals the importance of addressing healthy eating habits and general well-being together.