Anorexia Nervosa

What is Anorexia?
Any of several psychological disorders relating to the consumption of food, such as anorexia nervosa. Anorexia nervosa and bulimia are characterized by an abnormal fear of obesity, distorted body image, and subsequent abnormal eating patterns. Anorexia is marked by obsessive fasting; bulimia by eating binges followed by self-induced vomiting or the use of laxatives. The effects of these disorders range from mild weight loss to delayed sexual development, heart problems, depression, and even death.

Both conditions have their roots in social pressures; most cases occur among middle- and upper-class adolescent girls. Some specialists distinguish a third eating disorder, binge eating disorder, which is characterized by frequent periods of uncontrolled, compulsive eating, resulting in obesity and distress; it is typically associated with anxiety or depression.

Other eating disorders include rumination disorder, which generally occurs during infancy and involves repeated regurgitation; and pica, found primarily among young children and characterized by the eating of various non-nutritive substances, such as plaster, paint, or leaves.

Additional Info

Anorexia Nervosa - General Info.
Index to descriptions, treatments, research, magazine articles, and public information booklets.

Anorexia Self Help
Self-help resources from Mental Health Net exploring the causes and treatment of the eating disorder.

ANRED
Anorexia Nervosa and Related Eating Disorders is a nonprofit organization that educates the public about the harms of these diseases.

American Anorexia/Bulimia Assoc.
Offers information for victims and health professionals as well as tips for friends who are trying to help. Includes symptoms and stats.

Anorexia - Ask the Dietitian
Dietitian answers questions from people suffering from or helping others deal with anorexia.

Anorexia Clinics
Addresses and phone numbers for anorexia clinics in the US, Canada, the UK, and Australia. Some with web pages or email address.

Anorexia Nervosa: Judy's Story
Email your questions, book requests, or chat with Judy Sargent a recovered anorexic.

Bone Loss from Anorexia
This article from The Osteoporosis Report warns of bone loss in young women suffering from anorexia nervosa.

Genetic Basis of Anorexia Nervosa
Compelling article discusses the evidence that anorexia is partly inherited.

Nat'l Association of Anorexia
Contact the oldest national non-profit organization for helping eating disorder victims and their families.

Recovering From Anorexia
Read this woman's tale of recovery and her advice for sufferers of anorexia.

The Renfrew Center
Institute is dedicated to educate and treat people with eating disorders, depression, and women's issues. Find resources and research details.

Sisters Account of Anorexia
Provides information and guidelines for friends and families of those who suffer from anorexia. Includes access to newsgroups and mailing lists.

Something Fishy Website
Comprehensive resource on eating disorders with chat, tips, bulletins, and information on specific diseases.

Strep Infection Causes Anorexia
One type of anorexia could follow an infection of strep throat, according to this Doctor's Guide article.

WellnessWeb - Anorexia
General overview of the disease and its symptoms with a summary of current research.

Wrinkles on the Heart
Read a sample of a true story written by a mother about her family's struggle with anorexia nervosa. Request orders of this book via email.

Anorexia Bulimia Nervosa Assoc.
South Australian organization provides information, courses, and support groups for people with eating disorders.