Eating Disorders by Angie Roa PART 1 1. An eating disorder is a serious illness. It is characterized by extreme and dangerous eating behaviour. This can have very serious physical and psychological consequences. This illness affects all kinds of people: young and old, men and women, rich and poor. It is often difficult to know when someone has an eating disorder - you can't always tell by looking at them. 2. Health specialists are not completely sure about the causes of many eating disorders. There are many different reasons, such as bad eating habits, family history, attitudes and emotions, a person's income, and even where they live. However, some things are clear: eating disorders are mainly the result of unhealthy eating habits, the desire for an ultra-thin body and very low self-confidence. PART 2 3. It is very difficult to find out if a person has an eating disorder. However, some typical symptoms include losing or gaining weight drastically, vomiting, excessive fatigue and emotional distress. In addition, some typical behaviour includes paying excessive attention to body weight and shape, not sleeping well, getting stomach aches and avoiding social situations, especially for eating out. 4. Fortunately, it is possible to treat most eating disorders if they are diagnosed in time. People can be helped if they accept that they have an eating disorder, and get the necessary nutritional and psychological treatment. People with eating disorders should learn to eat well, change bad eating habits and get help from their family. They should also accept their bodies the way they are. In conclusion, eating disorders are complex illnesses, but treatment is possible. However, people need a trained health specialist to diagnose and treat these disorders​