Understanding other specified feeding or eating disorders (OSFED)
Learn about OSFED, including types, symptoms and the treatment that's available.
Other specified feeding or eating disorders (OSFED), also known as ‘eating disorders not otherwise specified (EDNOS)’, have features that are similar to anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa or binge eating disorder (BED) but don’t meet all the diagnostic criteria. It’s estimated that 50% of people with an eating disorder fall into this group.
Examples of what OSFED might look like include:
Lots of people who have OSFED have experienced anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa or BED in the past or may be diagnosed with one of these conditions in the future.
OSFED is an umbrella term and people experience this condition differently. There are a number of distinct eating disorders that fall under this umbrella that have their own tell-tale signs, without the classical symptoms of anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa or BED.
Pica causes someone to consume substances that aren’t meant to be eaten and have no nutritional value. Examples might include things like chalk, paint, soap and paper. People with pica will usually eat normal foods too, which means they tend to get the nutrients they need. However, many of the additional substances they consume can be dangerous and can cause a range of problems such as poisoning, cracked teeth, infections and sickness.
Rumination disorder is a condition that causes people to regurgitate (spit up) food that hasn’t been digested. They may then either re-chew and re-swallow the food, or spit it out. Those with rumination disorder may experience malnutrition, weight loss or dental erosion due to bringing up partially digested food.
This behaviour isn’t caused by a sickness bug or any other physical problem that would lead to vomiting, and the person doesn’t feel sick before they regurgitate food.
ARFID is when a person avoids and/or restricts the amount they eat of certain foods.
However, unlike with anorexia nervosa, a person with ARFID doesn’t restrict the amount they eat because they're concerned about their weight or shape. They might avoid or restrict their food for a number of other reasons. These include:
As with other eating disorders, research shows there may be a number of potential causes of OSFED. These include:
The symptoms of OSFED are not always clear-cut. Changes in your eating habits and your relationship with food are obvious signs, but as everyone is unique, this might look different for different people.
Some of the symptoms of OSFED may be similar to the symptoms of eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and BED, so it’s useful to familiarise yourself with their symptoms too.
One of the most effective ways to identify if you’re struggling with OSFED is by keeping a meal diary. Then you can start to look for signs that suggest you may have an eating disorder. Ask yourself:
If any of these sound familiar, it may be that you’re struggling with an atypical eating disorder. OSFED can have just as severe an impact on people’s lives as anorexia, bulimia and BED. That’s why it’s important that you get professional help if you’re concerned about your health and wellbeing.
Treatment for atypical eating disorders at Priory is similar to the treatment we offer for anorexia, bulimia nervosa and BED.
Treatment at Priory takes place in supportive, compassionate and therapeutic environments. Our dedicated teams are here to help you every step of the way towards resolving your unhealthy relationship with food, and regaining control of your life.
We also provide support for the families, carers and loved ones of our eating disorder patients. Our family support sessions can help you to:
For more information about our family support sessions, please visit our approach to eating disorder treatment page.
At Priory, we recognise that OSFED sufferers have difficulties that are no less genuine than other eating disorder diagnoses. Our specialists can offer tailored OSFED treatment packages at our hospitals and wellbeing centres.
It’s important to understand that without specialist eating disorder treatment, your OSFED may become worse over time and have a negative impact on your quality of life. Without support, it could deteriorate and you many struggle on your recovery journey.
At Priory, we understand that reaching out for help can be daunting, but it really is the most important step you can take. Eating disorders are treatable. Over the years, we have helped thousands of people address their challenges, reduce their symptoms and take steps towards a positive future.
We have OSFED treatment centres located throughout the country, meaning that you can access the support you need in a location that’s convenient for you. To find your nearest OSFED treatment centre, please use the search form below.
All of the services that we offer at Priory can be funded through private medical insurance. This includes:
All clients will have access to our highly skilled and accredited clinicians, many of whom are published experts in the field of mental health and addiction treatment. Whatever your needs, we're committed to working with you to get your life back on track.