These definitions are from He Papakupu: Ngā Māuiui Kai (A Te Reo Māori Glossary for Eating Disorders). These labels were developed through wānanga with members of Te Tira Wānanga Māuiui Kai (the Māori Eating Disorders / Eating Issues Network; a rōpū of researchers, clinicians, and experts-by-experience), in collaboration with Keri Opai (linguist, educator, and licensed te reo Māori translator). Māuiui is to be tired, sick, unwell, or out of balance. Kai is food. So, ngā māuiui kai is to be out of balance or out of sorts in relation to food.
This refers to a range of challenges and imbalances related to food or eating that can diminish a person’s mana (spiritual and personal authority). It acknowledges that anyone—regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, body shape, or size—can experience unwellness connected to eating. It focuses on the overall wellbeing of the individual, rather than just meeting specific diagnostic criteria.
People experiencing anorexia nervosa limit how much they eat and drink, often due to fear of gaining weight or in an effort to control their body. Whakatiki means to be sparing in what you eat, so māuiui whakatiki refers to being unwell or out of balance as a result of restricting food intake.
People experiencing binge eating disorder eat large amounts of food at one time, often without feeling in control. Kaihoro can mean to eat fast or voraciously. Māuiui kaihoro refers to eating large amounts quickly in a way that makes someone feel unwell or out of balance. It also encompasses the loss of control and distressing emotions that come with binge eating.
People experiencing bulimia nervosa eat large amounts of food at one time, often without feeling in control. Puku means stomach, and ruaki is to vomit. Pukuruaki refers to trying to manage difficult emotions by expelling or controlling food intake, often leading to a feeling of unbalance.
Emotional disregulation is when our emotions may be flittering like the rifleman bird. It's when we don't feel in control of our emotions.
Emotional disregulation is when our emotions may be flittering like the rifleman bird. It's when we don't feel in control of our emotions.
Some people experience a persistent lack of interest in food, which might include forgetting to eat, not feeling hungry, or not finding eating enjoyable. Aro is to turn towards, or take notice of, and kore describes an absence or lack of something. Arokore kai is to pay little attention to food, not notice hunger, or not prioritising kai.
Some people avoid food due to fear of eating, often linked to past negative experiences such as vomiting or choking. Wehi means to be afraid or fearful. Wehi-ā-kai refers to the fear or concern that comes with eating, either from past experiences or worries about what might happen.
Some people avoid food because they are very sensitive to its temperature, taste, smell, texture, or appearance. Rongo refers to senses – hearing, feeling, smelling, tasting, and perceiving. Āmaimai means to be nervous, tense, or anxious. Āmaimai rongo kai describes a nervousness or unease caused by sensory experiences related to food.
People with ARFID avoid certain foods or types of food, struggle to meet nutritional needs, or both. Karo means to avoid or parry away, and kai is food. Karo kai refers to avoiding food, which may happen for different reasons, including past distressing experiences, a fear of eating, or a lack of interest in food.
Emotional disregulation is when our emotions may be flittering like the rifleman bird. It's when we don't feel in control of our emotions.
Emotional disregulation is when our emotions may be flittering like the rifleman bird. It's when we don't feel in control of our emotions.
Emotional disregulation is when our emotions may be flittering like the rifleman bird. It's when we don't feel in control of our emotions.
Perfectionism involves setting impossibly high standards. Māuiui kōtihitihi captures this as striving for the peak of perfection, but at the cost of balance and well-being.
Ata means a reflected image, and whakawā means to judge. Māuiui whakawā ata describes the harmful act of judging our reflection in a distorted way. Muscle dysmorphia can be a related experience.
What are the signs?
It's best to ask how someone feels first, and to understand what personal pressures might be facing.
Common signs include but are not limited to significant concern with body weight or shape, unbalanced changes in eating habits, excessive exercise, purging behaviours, withdrawal from social situations involving food, and noticeable weight fluctuations. Emotional symptoms like anxiety, depression, or obsessive thinking about food can also be indicators.
How are they treated?
Everyone will have their own needs however treatment in Aotearoa often involves a mutli-faceted approach. This might include therapy (such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or family-based-treatment), and nutritional counseling. Sometimes medication to manage co-occurring conditions like depression or anxiety will also help. Support from healthcare professionals and loved ones is key to recovery.
How do I support someone?
Everyone deserves patience and love during their journey. It's best to offer non-judgmental support and encourage them to seek professional help. Avoid focusing on their appearance or weight and instead emphasise their overall well-being. Often people with lived experience just want their friends to help normalise life again.
Are they even serious?
YES. Eating disorders are dangerous and can lead to severe health issues, both physically and mentally. They can cause malnutrition, heart problems, digestive issues, and a weakened immune function. Eating disorders are also significantly misunderstood as a personal choice. They are never a choice and they should be treated with the same respect as a physical illness. Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent long-term consequences.
What does recovery look like?
Recovery from an eating disorder will be different for everyone, but it generally involves healing both physically and emotionally. It’s about learning to eat in a balanced way, improving your relationship with food and yourself. Sometimes it's hard to reach body positivity but striving for body acceptance is enough. Recovery isn’t just about stopping the unbalanced behaviours; it’s about finding healthier ways to cope with stress, anxiety, and other personal challenges. It takes time, and setbacks will likely happen. However, with the right support, anyone can live a healthier and happier life.
What language should I use?
Neutral, respectful language can look like using terms such as “experiencing an eating disorder” instead of stigmatising phrases like “suffering from” or “victim of.”
Avoid the physical stereotype as eating disorders impact people of all sizes, genders, and ethnicities. Avoid equating them with body size to prevent harmful stereotypes.
Highlight the psychological component: Ngā māuiui Kai are mental health issues, so focus on the emotional and psychological struggles involved, rather than just dietary habits or body image.
Avoid discussing specific disordered behaviours: Instead, focus on promoting overall health and well-being to avoid inadvertently bringing up triggering behaviours.
Promote a recovery mindset: Use language that emphasises hope and the possibility of recovery, empowering those affected.
Culturally sensitive language: In New Zealand, culturally relevant terms like Ngā Māuiui Kai to make discussions more inclusive.
