When food becomes everything

Approximately 8 million people in the United States suffer from eating disorders. Eating disorders usually manifest themselves during the teenage years and early adulthood years but they may develop at any time. Some of the symptoms are:

• Dramatic weight loss in a short period of time
• Feeling guilt after eating
• Isolation- avoids eating around others
  
• Hiding food
• Low self esteem
• Mood swings
  
• Depression
• Fatigue

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Eating disorders are difficult to cure and are usually a life long struggle. Common treatments include a combination of individual or group therapy, nutrition counseling and even hospitalization for more severe cases. The key to overcoming an eating disorder is to get help as soon as possible.

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http://www.something-fishy.org/isf/signssymptoms.php
http://www.randomhouse.com/features/eatingdisorders/stats.html
http://www.helpguide.org/mental/eating_disorder_treatment.htm