By Ashima Sharda Mahindra

Copyright timesnownews

Popular English and American actor Lily Collins sparked concerns among fans after pictures of her drastic weight loss went viral. Collins, known for Emily in Paris and other notable performances, appeared at New York Fashion Week, where everyone saw a slim and petite figure of hers, with worries about the 36-year-old battling anorexia. The actor had opened up on issues battling an eating disorder in 2017, saying she worked hard to get over it without seeking any medical help. For her latest outing, where she wore a spaghetti strap crop top with a midi skirt, her abs looked squeezed and her frame significantly slimmer. What is anorexia? Also known as anorexia nervosa, the condition is an eating and mental health disorder in which a person limits their calorie intake to an extreme. Those who experience anorexia engage in extreme dieting behaviours to keep their body weight as low as possible, which leads to malnutrition and a severely low weight. Doctors say anorexia means not wanting to eat – and it develops from negative thoughts and feelings about eating, weight, and body image. According to experts, there are two types of anorexia nervosa based on the eating behaviours involved: Restrictive anorexia This involves severe calorie restriction alone. Binge-purge anorexia It leads to calorie restriction but also episodes of binge eating and purging, similar to bulimia nervosa, where you may be vomiting, using laxatives, or doing extensive exercise. Atypical anorexia In this, someone who is not yet underweight makes it harder to recognise. Signs and symptoms of anorexia A few signs of anorexia, which also include mental health conditions, are: Significant weight loss over several weeks or months Below average weight compared to height Unexplained changes in height and weight balance Intense focus on food types and quantities and calorie counting Frequent critical thoughts and comments about body weight and image Overusing appetite suppressants Compulsive and extended exercise sessions Consistently going to the bathroom right after eating. Fatigue and tiredness Feeling cold all the time Feeling irritable Extreme hair loss Irregular periods in women Swelling in your limbs Is extreme slimming healthy? According to experts, extreme slimming is not healthy, as it can pose grave health risks – both physical and mental – including muscle and bone density loss, nutrient deficiencies, gallstones, and hormonal imbalances that can lead to a slowed metabolism and increased hunger. Rapid weight loss also results in various psychological issues like depression, anxiety, and a higher risk of developing an eating disorder. A sustainable, healthy approach involves slow, steady weight loss through a balanced, nutritious diet and regular physical activity. What is a healthy way to lose weight? Doctors and nutritionists suggest the best healthy way to lose weight and sustain it includes: Slow and steady weight loss According to experts, the best rate of weight loss should be around 0.5 to one kilogram per week. Eating a balanced diet Make sure you consume whole and nutrient-rich foods from all food groups instead of picking and choosing and drastically restricting calories. Exercise Along with a good diet, ensure regular physical activity, which supports your overall health and aids sustainable weight loss. Professional guidance Always make sure to consult with healthcare professionals who can help you curate a balanced, personalized plan for weight management.