1. An eating disorder is a condition which affects individuals¨ eating habits, either as a result of their own doing (self-inflicted), or as a bodily reaction to the consumption of food

2. Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by extremely low body weight, body image distortion and an obsessive fear of gaining weight

4. CAUSES

7. Bulimia nervosa is characterized by frequent episodes of binge eating, from twice a week to multiple times a day, followed by frantic efforts to avoid gaining weight. During an average binge, a bulimic consumes 3,000 to 5,000 calories in one short hour.

9. Acid reflux or ulcers Weakness and dizziness Chronic constipation from laxative abuse Chronic sore throat Loss of menstrual periods Ruptured stomach or esophagus Tooth decay and mouth sores Broken blood vessels in the eyes Swelling of the hands and feet

10. Appearance-oriented professions or activities Poor body image Major life changes Low self-esteem Biological factors Dieting