Because 50% of girls in the 11-13 year age range believe they are overweight, it is not surprising that so many of them end up with serious eating disorders.
Though there are some things you can do to prevent them from getting an eating disorder, it is extremely important to know the warning signs of anorexia so that you can get them help and prevent serious damage.
Many young girls have an obsession with being thin, brought on most likely by society's ideals of what beauty is.
People with anorexia avoid food, and actually starve themselves, even when they are emaciated, they still don't think they are thin enough.
They use exercise, purging, diet pills and laxatives, and often vomit to get rid of the food they've eaten.
Here are several warning signs: They are constantly dieting though already skinny, have quick, unexplained weight losses, wear excessively baggy clothes to hide how skinny they are, become obsessed with nutrition and calories, they don't socialize where food is present, they eat in secret, or head to the restroom immediately after eating.
Sometimes the disease gets so severe that hospitalization is necessary.
If the person is suicidal or in deep depression, very malnourished,or has other health issues which don't appear to be clearing up with treatment, hospitalization may be in order.
Treatment for anorexia can be therapy and group support, as well as nutritional counseling.
Therapy helps to understand what caused the problem, group support can help with coping mechanisms, and nutritionists help to set a course for future health by helping them plan what to eat and how to maintain a healthy weight.
Anorexia recovery is not generally a "do-it-yourself" project and experienced professionals are needed.
The right way to lose weight and get in shape is with home fitness equipment