Food is one of life's greatest pleasures. Food is also one of life's greatest necessities. Yet, for many, food is an enemy and the act of eating is torture. An estimated 5 million to 10 million Americans suffer from eating-related diseases, including anorexia, bulimia, and binge-eating disorders. As many as 50,000 of those affected will die as a direct result of these disorders. Young women are the most common victims of these deadly diseases, but a significant number of males also experience eating-related disorders. We are all aware of the medical complications that result from anorexia and bulimia: malnutrition, liver damage, gum erosion, and even death. However, an often-overlooked consequence of eating disorders is the negative impact they have on a child's educational achievement. Students with eating disorders often see their school performance decline due to lapses in concentration, loss of self-esteem, depression, and engaging in self-destructive behaviors. Listen to how one young woman in our district describes the destruction done to her life by an eating disorder: "I am a 16-year-old with anorexia. Having this disease has been the most horrible experience of my life. It completely takes control of your life. It breaks up your family, friends, and your actual thinking decisions. I have had this disorder for over a year and a half.…
Editor's note · Context
Discussing the impact of eating disorders on individuals and education.
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