1. Not everyone is pleased with their body type. Some people even adapt unhealthy habits in order to lose weight. What is this called?

~An eating disorder is a behavior that causes a person to overeat, under eat or practice unhealthy actions to control their weight.

2. Anorexia Nervosa is an eating disorder in which a person (usually female) restricts his/her caloric intake. This can cause serious health problems and can result in death. What are some symptoms of a person who is at risk for developing Anorexia Nervosa?

~Sudden weight loss
~Mood swings
~Preoccupation with food, calories and weight
~Choice of baggy clothing
~Excessive exercising
~Eats minimal amount of food in front of others

3. Bulimia is an eating disorder in which a person (usually female) over eats and then forces herself to vomit afterward (called bingeing and purging). What are some symptoms of a person who is at risk for developing Bulimia?

~Noticeable weight loss or gain
~Habit of visiting the bathroom immediately after meals (to induce vomiting)
~Depressed moods.
~Excessive concern about weight and strict dieting after binges
~Very critical of own body size
~May overuse laxatives.

4. Both of these eating disorders (Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia) can cause serious negative health problems. If you or someone you know demonstrates some or all of these symptoms, what should you do?

~Seek help and advice from a responsible adult.
~Seek professional advice and help from school nurse, psychologist, counselor or medical doctor
~Do not try to handle the problem yourself-these are addictive behaviors and require special medical assistance.