Do you ever secretly pig out and then force yourself to throw up everything you just ate? Do you ever starve yourself for days or even weeks because you think you're too fat?
If you answered yes to either of these questions (or if you have a friend who does these things), here are some facts you need to know:
Uncommon Names for Common Problems
If you participate in the "much a bunch-lose your lunch" routine known as bulimia or the voluntary act of self-starvation called anorexia nervosa, you are not alone. Eating disorders usually strike during the teen years and affect millions. While the majority of the victims are female, about 10 percent are male.
Bulimia can involve the eating and vomiting process, the chewing and then spitting out of food, or binge eating followed by the excessive use of laxatives. Anorexia nervosa on the other hand involves voluntary self-starvation and rigid dieting habits. While eating disorders may seem harmless, they are very serious. They cause an alarming number of deaths each year.
The Frightening Fear of Fat
Why do people become victims of eating disorders? Among the probable causes are low self-esteem, misconceptions about appearance, perfectionism, and a distorted view of sexuality. If media says that "thin is in," it must mean that "fat is failure." Consequently, thousands of young people are literally dying to be thin. While society has declared that a person's appearance dictates his or her worth, the Bible declares that God looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7). God is far more concerned with your inner character than he is with your outer appearance (1 Peter 3:3-4).
Overcoming the Obsession With Obesity
If you are struggling with an eating disorder, you need to seek both God's help and the help of others. Consulting with your family doctor will ensure your physical safety. Seeking out another person - someone who will help you discover the reasons behind your eating problems - will provide the emotional support you need.
|
|