The Skinny on Eating Disorders

Recently we have been exposed to loads of information regarding eating disorders. Our image-based society has sent all of us mixed messages on self-image and what is considered to be “beautiful”. However, it’s important for our teens to realize that it’s not about being “hot” but it’s about being “healthy”.

Though most common in girls, guys can suffer from eating disorders as well. So, here’s the skinny on two of the most common Eating Disorders, Anorexia and Bulimia. Hopefully this will help you to understand what Anorexia and Bulimia is, as well as help you to notice the signs of an eating disorder, if you fear a friend is suffering from one.

Anorexia

Anorexia is a disease in which a person is obsessed with his or her weight. Regardless of how skinny this person is, she still views herself as “fat”. Most Anorexic individuals are at least 15% below their normal weight. Common signs of Anorexia are: weight obsession, talking excessively about food, hair loss and mental slowness. Also, you may notice that an Anorexic person eats very little if anything at meal time. For more information on Anorexia please visit the National Woman’s Health Information Website provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services at www.4girls.gov .

Bulimia

Bulimia is a disease in which a person binge eats and then purges the food out of their system either by vomiting, taking laxatives, excessive exercise, and starvation or through other methods. Most Bulimics are obsessed with weight, judging themselves only on weight and appearance. Common signs of Bulimia are: Binge eating, frequent purging, trips to the bathroom after meals, depressive moods and a defensive attitude about his or her behaviors. For more information about Bulimia, please visit the National Woman’s Health Information Website provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services at www.4girls.gov.

If you suspect that you or a friend is suffering from an eating disorder or has tendencies to become Anorexic or Bulimic, contact a doctor or parent that you trust. These serious diseases can be life threatening and should be treated with care.