Journal of Nutrition & Food Sciences
Open Access

Eating disorders thriving in anxious times like the COVID-19 pandemic

3^rd International Conference on Food and Nutrition

August 25, 2022 | Webinar

Lara Haidous

American University of Beirut, Lebanon

Scientific Tracks Abstracts: J Nutr Food Sci

Abstract :

Eating disorders are considered to be an epidemic in the United States thus causing a major public health concern. Each class of the existing eating disorders, due to an abnormal food behaviour and impaired nutrition, paves the way to malnutrition. The COVID-19 pandemic posed changes to one’s regular routine and lifestyle which had a huge impact on the population’s mental health. Thus, not only did the pandemic heighten the existing eating disorder behaviours, but also might have developed it in those who did not have it. In 2020, the overall incidence of eating disorders increased by 15.3% (Zipfel et al., 2022). Multiple factors are found to cause implications on intensifying the symptoms of eating disorders including but not limited to restriction to daily activities, excessive time spent on social media, and emotional distress. The pandemic served as a wakeup call to raise awareness about eating disorders and facilitate its recognition within the healthcare system as an illness for treatment.

Biography :

Lara holds a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics Coordinated Program from the American University of Beirut, Lebanon. She also obtained both the Licensed Die titian credential from the Ministry of Health in Lebanon in 2020 and the Registered Die titian credential by ACEND in the US in 2021. Currently, she is the Consultant of the Healthcare & Life Sciences at Michael Page in Dubai whilst covering the Middle East. As a healthcare specialist, she now recruits for clinical roles within the healthcare sector.