How to Prevent Obesity Without Encouraging Eating Disorders

Dr. Golden Many eating disorders (EDs) programs have noted a marked increase in the number of teens who previously were obese or overweight presenting with frank eating disorders. In their attempt to lose weight, these adolescents may have resorted to unhealthy and unsustainable methods such as skipping meals or using diet pills or laxatives. Even though their weight now is in the normal range, these individuals have medical and psychologic findings similar to those with classic anorexia nervosa. They may present to the pediatrician with severe bradycardia or orthostasis, signs of medical instability.