--- Tip of the Month ---
In society today there is extreme pressure to have the perfect body.
Because of this the prevalence of eating disorders or disordered
eating is on the rise. If an individual doesn’t fit the clinical
description of an eating disorder, they may be wrapped up in
disordered eating. Disordered eating means that a person’s attitudes
towards food, weight and body size and shape may be causing them to
have very strict eating and exercise habits that jeopardize their
health, happiness and safety. Disordered eating may begin as a way to
lose a few pounds or get into shape, but these behaviors can quickly
spiral out of control, can become obsessions and may even become a
full blown eating disorder.
WHAT ARE THE WARNING SIGNS?
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A marked increase or decrease in weight not related to a
medical condition.
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The development of abnormal eating habits such as severe
dieting, preference for strange foods, withdrawn or ritualized
behavior at mealtime, or severe bingeing.
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An intense preoccupation with weight and body image
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Compulsive or excessive exercising
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Self induced vomiting, periods of fasting, or laxative, diet
pill or diuretic abuse
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Feelings of isolation, depression, or irritability
WHAT CAN WE DO TO HELP PREVENT EATING DISORDERS?
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Learn all about anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and binge
eating disorder. Awareness undermines judgmental or mistaken attitudes
about food, body shape and eating disorders.
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Discourage the idea that a particular diet, weight or body size
will automatically lead to happiness and fulfillment.
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Be a good role model in your attitudes about food, body image
and weight related issues. Avoid making negative comments about your
body or anyone else’s.
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Consider and be aware of the ways your beliefs and attitudes
about your body and others’ bodies are influenced by our society and
culture.
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Learn about the dangers of dieting, the importance of eating a
variety of foods.
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Take care of yourself. This includes eating well and getting
plenty of rest.
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Talk to others about natural differences in body types and the
body’s powerful attempts to maintain these naturally varied shapes and
sizes.
Reprinted with permission from the National Eating Disorders
Association. For Referrals or additional information see the website
below:
http://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/p.asp?WebPage_ID=294
