Pro-anorexia websites cause concern

September 21, 8:16 PMWilmington Nutrition ExaminerMaria Price

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Psychologists and nutritionists are concerned with the growing number of pro-anorexia websites popping up on the Internet. These websites promote anorexia and bulimia as a lifestyle. They also show pictures of dangerously thin celebrities and regular women as “thinspiration.” Some sites even go as far as offering tips to hide the disease from friends and family. Concern over these sites is high because anorexia and bulimia typically affect adolescent women who are prone to pressure from peers and society. Due to free speech rights, it’s not likely these sites will be banned any time soon. However, there are certain steps parents and educators can take to protect adolescents against the dangers of anorexia and bulimia.
 

Promote a Balanced Diet
Explain the importance of a balanced diet in terms children can relate to. If you’re talking to a soccer star, explain to her that she won’t be able to perform as well without consuming the proper types of foods and an appropriate number of calories. If you’re a parent, cook healthy, balanced meals for your children, so they feel good about eating. You can also encourage adolescents to visit the USDA, My Pyramid website (http://www.mypyramid.gov/pyramid/index.html).  The site includes suggestions for every food group along with several interactive exercises. It also includes great tools for parents such as a menu planner and tracker.

Get Help
If you feel your child suffers from anorexia or bulimia, schedule an appointment with a psychologist or with your regular health care provider. If your concerns are for someone else’s child, express your thoughts in a calm, gentle manner to the victim or her guardians. Many victims initially deny having a problem which further complicates the situation. The National Association for Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Eating Disorders (http://www.anad.org/) can help you find treatment centers, support groups, and other valuable information.