What is anorexia?

Anorexia is accurately defined as a medical condition that leads to a loss of appetite. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including psychological issues, medical conditions, and external influences. Individuals suffering from anorexia may experience significant weight loss and an intense fear of gaining weight, which can further exacerbate the loss of appetite.

Understanding this condition is crucial, particularly in differentiating it from other eating behaviors and disorders. For example, while overeating is characterized by excessive food intake, anorexia is specifically about the absence of desire to eat. It is also important to note that extreme exercise regimens or nutritional deficiency disorders do not encapsulate the complete scope of anorexia's impact on an individual's relationship with food and body image.