Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, eating disorders have escalated, especially among teens.

The National Eating Disorders Association has reported increases as high as 70% to 80% in calls to its helpline at different points last year. Last July, the International Journal of Eating Disorders published a survey of people in the United States who had already been diagnosed with anorexia, and the responses showed that many were experiencing worse symptoms. In addition, those with binge-eating disorder reported an increase in episodes.

The three most common types of eating disorders are:

— Anorexia: a condition characterized by weight loss, distorted body image and fear of gaining weight. People with this condition typically restrict calories and types of foods consumed, may exercise compulsively and in some cases may resort to vomiting or laxatives.

— Bulimia: a cycle of bingeing on food in large amounts and compensating with behaviors such as self-induced vomiting.

— Binge-eating disorder: a condition that includes episodes of uncontrolled eating but does not necessarily involve purging. This is the most common eating disorder.

The pandemic caused a vicious cycle — more kids at home, more stress, more isolation with easy access to food — which resulted in more binge eating. That led to weight gain, and those desperate to lose the weight resorted to restrictive eating.

For those with an eating disorder, weight is a critical part of their identity. If the number on the scale goes up, they may feel humiliation or shame. To prevent that, they may restrict themselves to certain types of food and increase their exercise to burn more calories. When the restrictions are too much, they might sneak a couple of candy bars and hide the wrappers or hide food under their bed. It's a tough cycle to break.

More time on social media sites can also increase the risk of an eating disorder as teens compare their bodies to images found online. That comparison creates a downward spiral in terms of body image and self-esteem.

Disordered eating is often about control. With so many factors that contribute to feeling out of control, from family to pressure to be thin, some feel they can control food.

If you think someone you know may have an eating disorder, help them get help. Treatment can be critical to prevent future health problems. Reach out to a dietitian or doctor who specializes in eating disorders.

Q and A

Q: Can probiotics clear up common skin problems?

A: Skin health is an important part of overall well-being. There isn't enough research on exactly which probiotic strains and doses and in what forms (oral or topical) may produce benefits. And there's some concern that topical probiotic use may promote antibiotic resistance and risk of allergy reactions, according to some recent research. Research is clear there is an important connection between skin health and gut health. Increasing fiber in our diets and choosing a diet rich in vitamins and minerals are always beneficial, both for our skin health and for good general health.

RECIPE

Sometimes, we purchase an appliance, get all excited and then put it in the cabinet and forget about it. Recently, I rediscovered my Vitamix blender. Here's a recipe from the "Vitamix 100th Anniversary Cookbook" that has become a favorite. It's a healthier chocolate pudding, made creamy with avocadoes.

CHOCOLATE AVOCADO PUDDING

Servings: 8

2 avocados, halved, pitted and peeled (or 1 avocado and 1 ripe banana)

2/3 cup skim milk or almond milk

1/2 cup pitted dates or 1/4 cup maple syrup, if desired

1/4 cup cocoa powder or 1/4 cup melted chocolate chips

Place all ingredients into the blender container in the order listed and secure the lid. Start on the lowest speed, then quickly increase to the highest speed, using the tamper or a spatula to press ingredients toward the blades. Blend for 30 to 45 seconds or until desired consistency is reached. Pour into individual glasses or cups.

Per serving: 100 calories; 1 gram protein; 9 grams carbohydrates; 8 grams fat; 4 milligrams cholesterol; 4 grams fiber; 1 gram sugar; 4 milligrams sodium.

Charlyn Fargo is a registered dietitian with SIU Med School in Springfield, Illinois. For comments or questions, contact her at charfarg@aol.com or follow her on Twitter @NutritionRd. To find out more about Charlyn Fargo and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

Photo credit: Free-Photos at Pixabay