Addiction to alcohol leads to a series of health disorders. One of which is drunkorexia or a combination of alcohol abuse and anorexia. The health disorder anorexia is nothing that we don’t know of, but a combination of alcohol use disorder and anorexia might be new.
Hence, let us know more about how both these disorders are connected and how can they lead to bigger problems.
Defining Drunkorexia
Drunkorexia is the term associated with the problem where people cut down on healthy calories just so that they can consume more alcohol. Most alcoholic beverages contain a lot of calories. Thus, people will with anorexia prioritize their calorie intake and side with alcohol instead of healthy food.
This behavior is commonly observed in women, however, a few men also practice it. Some even prefer to self-induce vomiting to lose the calories gained from alcohol. Others prefer not to eat for days after consuming alcohol just to balance out the calorie intake. Such a behavior is not healthy and can lead to other eating disorders and health problems.
Effects of Drunkorexia
Limiting your calorie intake just to alcohol is not a good sign. Though it might seem to help you maintain your weight for a while, it will lead to other health issues in the future. Some of the common effects of drunkorexia are
- Increased risk of dementia, diabetes, and cardiovascular problems
- Liver diseases
- Brain and liver damage
- Hypoglycemia
- Alcohol poisoning
- Vitamin depletion
- Abdominal bloating
- Constipation
- Anemia
- Brittle nails
- Dry skin
- Acne
- Dehydration
Changes in Physical Appearance
The effects of drunkorexia can be seen in your physical appearance. Alcohol does not provide any vitamins or other essential nutrients. This leads your body to suffer from several deficiencies. Your skin can begin to age early, your hair can fall off earlier than expected, and your nails can become weak. Even your stomach can bloat due to excess alcohol.
Treating Drunkorexia
These effects could be worse if the behavior is continued for a long time. It can also lead to severe alcohol use disorder along with other health disorders. Thus, it is advised never to cut down on food and choose alcohol as the only source of calories.
However, if you are already suffering from alcohol use disorder, you can visit Mallard Lake Detox Center in Houston, Texas for expert treatment. Call us now and plan a visit today!