Expert Advises Caregivers to Be on Lookout of Symptoms of Eating Disorders

Eating disorders can affect boys, girls, men and women of virtually every age. But teen girls and young women comprise the majority of disordered eaters.

Because few individuals are able to ask for help with their eating disorder, it is important that parents, teachers and other caregivers identify symptoms that a girl may be struggling with an eating disorder.

In an Aug. 31 article in the Salisbury (N.C.) Post, health and fitness expert Ester Marsh advised being on the lookout for the following signs:

• Obsession with weight
• Weighing oneself numerous times a day, especially before and after eating
• Eating very little
• Eating a lot, then immediately disappearing to the bathroom
  
• Extreme unhappiness with appearance
• Brushing teeth many times per day
• Exercising more than three hours or more a day most days of the week

People with eating disorders such as anorexia, bulimia or binge eating disorder have an illness that can kill them. If you suspect that someone you know is experiencing symptoms of an eating disorder, contact a physician or other trained health care provider immediately.