5 Myth-Busting Facts About Eating Disorders

1️⃣ Anyone can be affected by an eating disorder.

Eating disorders impact people of all ages, gender identities, races, religions, ethnicities, sexual orientations, body shapes, and weights.

2️⃣ BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, or People of Color) folks experience eating disorders at the same or higher rates compared to white individuals, but they are half as likely to get diagnosed.

Anyone can struggle with an eating disorder—regardless of race, ethnicity, or cultural background.

Racial trauma, discrimination, microaggressions, and the challenges of navigating multiple cultures can all affect your relationship with food and your body.

3️⃣ About one in three people struggling with an eating disorder identify as men/boys

Eating disorders are increasing faster in men than in women.

But many men don’t recognize the signs early on.

Why the delay in recognition?

Because of the myth that only women experience eating disorders.

4️⃣ People of any size and shape can have an eating disorder

94% of people with eating disorders live in “average” or higher weight bodies, while only 6% are medically underweight.

5️⃣ No one chooses an eating disorder

Eating disorders are bio-psycho-social illnesses, which means that genetic, biological, environmental, and social elements all play a role in their development

NEDA’s free and confidential screening tool can help you understand your eating disorder risk and connect you with resources. Take the first step: visit nationaleatingdisorders.org

🗣️ All of this information is provided by NEDA - check out their page and website for more information, resources, and support!