Could You Be At Risk For An Eating Disorder?

Could You Be At Risk For An Eating Disorder?

Kim Archer

Some girls are perfectly content with their bodies, but there are others who are never satisfied. There is much more to it than self-loathing; there are many reasons someone might be more likely to have an eating disorder.

A common factor in eating disorders is your gender. But even though more females than males experience this illness, there's a disturbing increase in the number of young men who are inclined to be bulimic or anorexic. It's not just a women's problem anymore.

Age may be a factor but not necessarily the only determinant. Anyone can suffer from an eating disorder, and they can arise in middle-aged people. Most victims can trace the roots of their disorder to their teens or early twenties.

If someone near to you has an eating disorder, such as a close relative, your chances of following the same path increase. You might think such a situation would convince you of the dangers, but too often it can make such behavior seem perfectly acceptable instead.

An eating disorder can easily strike those with an obsessive compulsive disorder - it's just another way to exert control over their lives. Similarly, women who are depressed or anxious are more likely to have an eating disorder.

Some athletes and exercise fanatics are at risk of developing eating disorders under the pretense that it will enhance their performance.

And then there are the societal pressures that impact your self image to a huge extent. If your mom or sister frequently remarks on your less-than-perfect body and hints that you could lose a few pounds, even with a teasing approach, things can take a terrible twist into an eating disorder that destroys your body.

If you think you fit into any of these scenarios, you'll need to stop yourself before you go any further towards an eating disorder. Visit your physician and talk to her about the problem. Get the facts on what a healthy weight and calorie intake is for you.

Don't pay attention to the negative voices that try to sway you. Develop your self confidence and hang out with upbeat people who don't constantly belittle you.

Don't get caught up in the fantasy of looking like a supermodel off the cover of Vogue magazine; it is far better to focus on becoming a beautiful person on the inside. Advances in technology allow the editors to remove imperfections from these beautiful models (who are, understandably, grateful).