Identifying and understanding eating disorders

Eating disorders are complex, serious health problems that affect seven million women and girls in the United States.

They can occur in women – and men – of all ages and backgrounds, but most often develop in young women between ages 11 and 20.

Anorexia, bulimia and binge eating are the three main types of eating disorders. People with these conditions are obsessed with food and body weight. They often have a distorted view of their body shape, have low self-esteem, are depressed and feel ashamed or guilty about their eating problems.

Anorexia

Women with anorexia have an intense fear of being...