Christmas and Eating Disorders
Some people can’t stop their urge to eat during the Christmas season
Cooking is something many people with eating disorders do
Christmas time brings out the cooks in most people, baking Christmas cookies and breads. But for someone with an eating disorder, this is one of the most difficult times of the year.
They may use cooking as a way of filling up their friends and families without partaking in the delicious food themselves. Or they may cook and then binge on the food they have just made.
"Many persons with eating disorders love to cook and will constantly cook and bake for their family or friends," said Theresa Fassihi, PhD, a psychologist at The Menninger Clinic in Houston. "They may bake all day, but not eat a single thing themselves."
Vicarious pleasure from watching others eat is common in anorexia and becomes increasingly noticeable during the holiday season. Bulimics will tend to feel guilty for the whole period, as they indulge on the many sweets and fattening food on offer.
