Eating disorders are real and serious illnesses. Approximately 3 percent of teens, both male and female, have an eating disorder. The two most common disorders are anorexia and bulimia. Anorexia usually begins around the start of puberty and involves extreme weight loss (at least 15 percent of body weight) and includes a distorted perception of their body as “fat.” Bulimia (or binging and purging) involves eating and then vomiting or using laxatives to get rid of the food. Both disorders are very complicated, have serious medical consequences and require expert treatment for recovery.

How do you know if your teen has an eating disorder? Here are the warning signs:

• Skipping meals


• Avoiding situations where food may be present


• Not being social/isolating self


• Excessive exercise


• Very low or no fat diet


• Eliminating certain foods or food groups


• Always calculating fat grams and calories eaten


• Taking laxatives, diuretics or diet pills


• Using supplements and protein powders


• Vomiting/frequent bathroom visits after eating


• Rapid changes in weight or behavior


• Unhealthy: pale, wan, drawn


• Weighing self often


• Amenorrhea (periods stop)


• Cold/dizzy

Emergencies:

• Fainting


• Collapsing


• Unable to walk


• Throwing up several times a day


• Suicidal

For more information on eating disorders and how to help, visit the following web sites:

• Palo Alto Medical Foundation
: We're Talking Teen Health

• National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders: Hotline, Counseling and Referrals, 847-831-3438


• Overeaters Anonymous: Find a local group


• National Eating Disorders Association Information on eating disorders and referrals for treatment

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Disclaimer: This content is the opinion of the author(s) and not necessarily that of your health care provider, the Palo Alto Medical Clinic, the Palo Alto Medical Foundation or Sutter Health. This information is provided for your general information and education only, and should not be relied upon for personal diagnosis or treatment. If you feel like you have an illness or need emotional support for a problem, please contact you personal physician NOW.
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