Eating disorders (Anorexia nervosa and Bulimia nervosa).

Anorexia nervosa is a disorder that is marked by a persistent refusal to eat and unreasonable fear of being overweight, people with this disorder have a grossly distorted image of their bodies and claim to be overweight despite being pitifully thin.

Bulimia nervosa involves alternating between periods of binge eating and purging through self-induced vomiting with laxatives. It is also quite disturbing that our society places so much value on thinness which can have a negative impact on people that are already at risk for these eating disorders due to heredity.

Both disorders primarily affect females.

Many starve themselves to reach what the society, fashion industry and media termed as “ideal shape”. Many are under pressure to become thin so they can fit in, I believe we should learn to love and appreciate our looks. It is quite unfortunate that after efforts to lose weight by some, they are still overweight and it is so disturbing to know that anorexia and bulimia can lead to death if untreated.

If you or your loved ones are experiencing any of these eating disorders, don’t let your desire to remain thin overrules your health, talk to a doctor or a therapist.

Next time you make a decision to start another diet because you feel you are too fat, pause and sign up for a self-esteem class, that maybe all you need. When we learn to accept ourselves, we often begin to live a more meaningful life. Start eating healthy, improve your nutrition and move toward a healthier you.