No one knows why some people cross the line and others don't. But when it comes to weight loss, there are some who will take things so far that they develop an eating disorder. Many times it becomes obvious to the people close to them before the one who has the disorder, but when weight transforms from a goal to an obsession, there is definitely cause for alarm. As every person is different, there is no way that one person will exhibit the same behavior. Check out the following descriptions of the most common eating disorders and their symptoms.

Anorexia is the most popular eating disorder. This involves extreme dieting through a combination of techniques including starvation, laxatives and extreme exercise. People with anorexia are usually 15% below normal body weight and are obsessed with calories. They have an intense fear of being fat, and often think they are overweight, even when they are not. Hospitalization is often required due to the lack of nourishment. They may have brittle skin, high anxiety, and refuse to eat in public. They usually experience very quick weight loss due to the extreme abuse they put their body through. If you constantly skip meals but still force yourself to do a rigorous exercise routine daily, you may have an inclination towards anorexia. Talk to your doctor about developing a healthy body image, realistic routine and reasonable goals.

Bulimia is characterized by a binge and purge cycle. Unlike anorexia, which usually involves total starvation, bulimics can consume up to 20,000 calories is one sitting and then purge the calories through vomiting, laxatives, enemas, diuretics, or other means. Bulimia can be harder to treat because bingeing and purging are hidden. People with bulimia are many times a normal weight or even slightly overweight. Symptoms of bulimia often include going to the bathroom frequently during meals, mood swings, preoccupation with weight, dental problems (enamel wear) from vomiting, and bloodshot eyes. If you find yourself bingeing in secret on high-calorie foods and then trying to immediately get it out of your body, you may be bulimic. Talk to your doctor about a realistic plan that allows you to have some comfort foods without abusing your body.

While these may seem like shortcuts to weight loss, these illnesses can both be fatal. A sensible diet, moderate exercise, and the use (not abuse) of supplements such as liquid hoodia is a safer approach. While appetite control is necessary, this does not mean total starvation. Eating less than 1200 calories a day can result in muscle loss, which will make it even harder for you to get healthy.


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