Understanding OSFED

Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorder (OSFED) previously known as Eating Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (EDNOS) is a diagnosis for individuals who are experiencing significant distress from an eating disorder that does not meet the strict diagnostic criteria for another specific condition like anorexia or bulimia nervosa. For example, a person may have all the symptoms of anorexia but not be underweight (Atypical Anorexia), or engage in bingeing and purging but less frequently than required for a bulimia diagnosis. It is crucial to understand that OSFED is not a “less serious” condition. It is just as medically and psychologically dangerous as other eating disorders and requires the same level of comprehensive, specialized care to achieve a full and lasting recovery.

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Types of OSFED

Atypical Anorexia Nervosa
All symptoms of anorexia are present, but the individual’s weight is not below the “normal” range. This condition is just as medically serious as anorexia nervosa.
Purging Disorder
The person uses purging behaviors (like vomiting or misusing laxatives) to control their weight, but they do so without the binge eating episodes seen in bulimia.
Bulimia Nervosa (low frequency/limited duration)
All criteria for bulimia are met, but the binge-purge episodes happen less frequently or for a shorter time than is required for a full diagnosis.
Night Eating Syndrome
Characterized by recurrent episodes of eating after waking up from sleep or consuming excessive food after the evening meal, causing significant distress.
Binge Eating Disorder (low frequency or limited duration)
All criteria for Binge Eating Disorder are met, but the binge episodes happen less frequently or for a shorter time than is required for a full diagnosis.

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Many with OSFED feel their illness isn’t “sick enough” for treatment, but this is a dangerous misconception. The medical and psychological impacts are just as severe as any other eating disorder, and specialized care is critical for healing.