On the occasion of the World Day of Action for Eating Disorders (EDs), professionals from the Alabente association in Tenerife have shared essential strategies to address this illness that affects the relationship with food and body image. Far from being a chronic condition, recovery is possible and can represent a process of personal growth.

Psychologist Nieves Santolaria points out that, although EDs affect men and adults, 90% of patients are women, with an increasingly early age of onset, between 12 and 30 years old. These patients tend to be "very perfectionistic, very demanding" and focus on failures. Social pressure and social media, which prioritize aesthetics, are key factors in the appearance of these disorders during developmental stages like adolescence.

Nutrition plays a central role in the multidisciplinary approach. Dietitian Chaxi Bencomo explains that a "nutritional history" is taken with the family to understand dietary restrictions and establish guidelines, often starting with regularizing breakfast. One of the biggest challenges is to overcome the fear of foods like carbohydrates, introducing them gradually so that patients associate food with health and not just weight. The association has a day center to work with homemade menus in a supportive environment.

Family support is "fundamental" for recovery, according to Santolaria. Therapy aims to turn parents into a "therapeutic resource," providing them with guidelines to collaborate from home and helping them understand the psychological aspects of the illness, such as fears and obsessions, to prevent the patient from becoming blocked due to a lack of understanding.

The final message is one of hope: "It is now perfectly known that 60-70% of people can recover," although there is a risk of relapse and chronicity. Santolaria concludes that many people not only heal but emerge "even improved," having confronted aspects of their lives that needed attention.