Eating Disorders in Twins and Multiples

Eating Disorders in Twins and Multiples Eating Disorders Print Eating Disorders and Twins By Pamela Prindle Fierro Pamela Prindle Fierro is the author of several parenting books and the mother of twin girls.   Learn about our editorial policy Pamela Prindle Fierro Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by Joel Forman, MD on February 29, 2016 Joel Forman, MD, is a board-certified pediatrician and associate professor of pediatrics, environmental medicine, and public health at Mount Sinai School of Medicine. Learn about our Medical Review Board Joel Forman, MD Updated on February 04, 2020 James Woodson/Getty Images More in Eating Disorders Symptoms Treatment Diagnosis Awareness and Prevention Is there an association between eating disorders and twins? A quick scan of headlines often seems to link the two subjects, especially with famous and celebrity twins. Did their status as twins have anything to do with their problems? In fact, a 2014 study found that in a survey of more than two million individuals, children that were a multiple were 33 percent more likely to be diagnosed with an eating disorder. Eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa (self-starvation), bulimia nervosa (cycle of binge eating followed with purging by vomiting or use of laxatives) and binge eating (recurrent, compulsive bouts of overeating) are disorders that include extreme emotions, attitudes and behaviors surrounding weight and food issues. While anyone can be a victim of these devastating disorders, the most common sufferers are females in early to mid-adolescence. According to the National Eating Disorder Association  (NEDA), it is estimated that as many as 20 million females and 10 million males suffer from an eating disorder at some point. Causes They are complex conditions that arise from a combination of behavioral, emotional, psychological, interpersonal and social factors. While scientists dont know for sure what causes a person to become unhealthy and anorexic, studying multiples have given them some clues about the genetic impact of the disorder. A study of over 1,000 sets of female twins by the Medical College of Virginia helped scientists identify the risk factors for bulimia. Their research showed that pairs of identical (or monozygotic) twins had a much higher incidence of disorders than fraternal twins. Because identical twins share a genetic link (they have the same DNA), scientists made the connection that heredity plays a role in the disorder.? Some of the other emotional, psychological and environmental factors that cause eating disorders may make twins and multiple particularly susceptible. For example: Feelings of lack of control in lifeHistory of being teased or ridiculed based on sizeCultural norms that value people based on the physical appearance.Overachieving personality Twins are constantly being compared, and often their physical attributes are the basis for comparison and contrast. No matter how much alike they are, the public will always try to distinguish one twin as bigger, thinner, or prettier. Multiples may feel driven to rebel against such labeling or try to gain control over their physical appearance by using food to compensate. Because they are constantly compared to another individual, they may have a distorted body image, always viewing themselves in relation to their co-twin rather than having a true perception of themselves as an individual. Effects of Eating Disorders Eating disorders can be fatal. When someone with anorexic starves herself, her body is denied the essential nutrients it needs to function. The body slows down all its processes to conserve energy, putting the victim at risk for fatigue, weakness, hair loss, muscle loss, bone deterioration and ultimately, heart failure. Bulimia leads to electrolyte imbalances, tooth decay, peptic ulcers, dehydration and can have the potential for gastric rupture, damage to the esophagus, and pancreatitis. Many long-term health risks can be sustained, even after the bulimic ceases her cycle of bingeing and purging such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and heart disease. What Can Parents Do to Protect Their Twins? NEDA makes some recommendations that parents can implement to prevent eating disorders in their children. They include: Educate your kids about weightism and sexism.Avoid overemphasizing beauty and body shape.Discuss the value of a healthy, well-balanced diet combined with moderate exercise.Identify and help children resist the ways that the media presents images based on body type.Promote self-esteem and self-respect by providing opportunities and encouragement. In addition, parents can set a good example for their kids. Dont bemoan the extra pounds of pregnancy or nitpick your bodys flaws in front of your children. Avoid fad dieting, but rather implement a healthy lifestyle for the entire family. Finally, treat your twins or multiples as individuals. Although they cant escape the comparisons inflicted on them by the public, they should feel that they are appreciated for their own merit at home. Avoid emphasizing their physical differences, especially as they grow and develop; rather, celebrate their unique features and abilities.