Eating disorders are a major problem that affects men and women all over the world. There are three common eating disorders; anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder. Each disorder has different affects on the human body. .
An estimated 0.5 to 3.7 percent of females suffer from anorexia nervosa at some point in their life. Anorexia is characterized by a significant weight loss, which is usually resulting from excessive dieting. The people with this disorder see themselves to be overweight, or fat, no matter what their actual weight may be. Anorexics will avoid food, and calorie intake, at any cost. Anorexics may also use compulsive exercise to control their weight. Anorexics commonly strive for perfection in all the things they do. They set extremely high standards for themselves, and feel that they always have to prove themselves. They may also feel that the only thing have control over in their lives is their weight. Focusing on calories and weight lose can be a way for anorexics to block out feelings and emotions. It may seem easier to diet then it is to deal with their problems directly. Anorexics often have low self-esteem, and feel like they don't deserve to eat. When confronted with the problem, anorexics will often deny the fact that they have a problem, or that they need any sort of help. .
There are many signs and symptoms associated with anorexia nervosa. Anorexics will experience noticeable weight loss, and often will become withdrawn. Anorexics will often exercise excessively. They are fatigued, and always cold. They experience muscle weakness, and an obsession with food, calories, and recipes. Anorexics will have unusual eating habits, and noticeable discomfort around food. They will often complain of being "too fat", even when they are thin. They will cook fro other, but not cook they food that they prepare. They will eat only diet foods, and will feel guilt about eating.