An Inside Look on Eating Disorders ? Anorexia Nervosa

Photo By: LHGFX Photography

Understanding Anorexia Nervosa

Anorexia nervosa is self-induced starvation which results from a fear of being fat, even though the person affected? is underweight (Ignatvicius, 2010).? Anorexia primarily affects girls ages 16-23 falling into the middle and upper class socioeconomic status and tend to excel academically (Guinzbourg, 2011). Although, the groups listed fall into the highest risk of becoming anorexic, it can affect anyone. It is important to understand and recognize the different signs and symptoms of anorexia, so that if one of your friends, family or peers is suffering from it- you can help. Physical signs of anorexia include hair loss, nausea, vomiting, swollen or bleeding gums, dry skin, fat loss, muscle wastage, anemia, disorientation and an increased heart rate (Ignatavicius, 2010).

Peer Pressure

The pressure to be thin can be overwhelming; it is seen in media through advertisements, in runway models and actresses or even through pressure coming from your peers and friends. When a runway model is a size 00 it makes a statement as to what is considered the ideal woman which places pressure on society to be thin. This causes young women to have an altered body image and poor self esteem.? It is important to realize that these standards that have been set for runway models and actresses are not sustainable and many of these women suffer from eating disorders and are not living healthy lifestyles in order to maintain their rail thin physiques.

Healthy Diet, your Key to Success

Implementing a healthy balanced diet, rich in vitamins and minerals is the foundation of beating anorexia and will provide your body with the energy it needs. Without fuel, the body cannot properly function and will waste muscle, lose excessive fat and will eventually harm your internal organs. Fuel your body with lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, vegetables and healthy fats and not only will you look good, you will feel good too.

Get Help

If you know someone who is suffering from anorexia, provide support and help them access valuable resources that can help them.? The National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders, http://www.anad.org/ is an excellent resource which can help find treatment options, support groups and provides information on anorexia.

References:
Guinzbourg, M. (2011). Eating disorders- a current concern. Hogrefe Publishing, 27-45. Doi: 10.1027/1192-5604/a000014
Ignatavicius, D. T., & Workman, L.M. (2010). Medical Surgical Nursing: Patient Centered Collaborative Care. Cleveland Ohio: Saunders Elsevier
National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (2012). Retrieved from http://www.anad.org/

ABOUT THE WRITER:? Holly Iglehart earned her? bachelors of science in nursing degree with her RN with a minor in health.? Holly was a college track athlete and now is a professional natural bikini competitor for the IFPA.? Holly also competes in the diva bikini model category for the WBFF.? You can find Holly Iglehart on facebook at WBFF Diva Bikini Model Holly Iglehart (www.facebook.com/bikinimodelholly).

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