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Ways To Help Prevent Eating Disorders

 

The statistics are alarming - some researchers estimate that as many as 10 million women and 1 million men are struggling with eating disorders. At least 34 million are chronic dieters. 81% of ten year olds are afraid of getting fat, and three out of four women of normal weight ranges think they are fat.

 

As alarming as these numbers are, they probably don't surprise most of us. Almost everyone can name at least one person they know who is currently afflicted or who has battled disordered eating in the past.

 

There are many complicated factors that can lead to eating disorders, including life experiences, personality type, societal pressures and even genetics. Still, obsessions with food, eating and weight are central to all disordered eating.

 

Listed below are the types of attitudes and practices you can adopt to help guard against eating disorders. Be aware, and pass this information on to people you care about.

 

Regarding Weight...

• Don't measure your worth by a number on the scale.
• Aim for a healthy, realistic weight for your body type.

 

Regarding bodies...

• Read magazines that promote a variety of body types and positive self-image.
• Change the channel when watching TV programs that treat teen girls and women as sex objects. Write letters to advertisers.
• Marvel at the wonderful variety of bodies in the world--each one unique.
• Accept your body at its natural shape and size.
• Be thankful for the amazing things your body does every day.
• Focus on inner beauty in others and yourself.

 

Regarding Food...

• As a rule, eat three healthy, balanced meals a day, and snacks as needed.
• Build in treats to enjoy in moderation.
• Read food labels and check portion sizes as an occasional learning tool, not an every day ritual.
• Find alternatives to meet your emotional needs, instead of using food to do so.
• Become aware of your hunger and fullness signals.

 

Regarding Exercise...

• Exercise regularly to stay healthy.
• Choose activities that you can truly enjoy and make them part of your life.

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