What is Anorexia Nervosa

There have been recent findings that there may be a genetic predisposition for eating disorders. Many twin studies have been done finding that if one twin suffered from an eating disorder, the other twin is 10-20 times more likely to suffer from one as well. Some signs to be on the lookout for if you suspect an eating disorder:
preoccupation with food,
refusal to maintain minimally normal body weight,
feeling fat even though very thin,
always cold regardless of temperature,
brittle nails,
thinning hair, skin can appear yellow and dry,
depression is a common sidekick,
and lastly lanugo - fine, down-like hair covering the body in order to keep warm.

If you think that you might have an eating disorder it is important for you to know that you are not alone - no matter how alone you might feel. The feelings that you may be experiencing more than likely are being experience by another person. Reach out, talk to someone about your feelings and fears; it is scary just opening up and admitting to yourself that you might have a problem - but it is courageous to admit it to another person. Talking about it is never a sign of weakness, only strength. Just think of the impact you can possibly make on another person by your willingness to share with them.

This link will lead you to the 'Something Fishy' website which has a questionnaire on thoughts/feelings/behaviors associated with eating disorders. There is help available out there. http://www.something-fishy.org/isf/quest...

Go To Page: 1 2

Articles in this Topic    Discussions in this Topic