When it comes to body image, many Americans are dissatisfied to some degree by what they see when they look in a mirror. Part of the reason is that we are bombarded with media images of the super-toned,ultra-thin "beautiful people" who, in our minds, represent the body image goal we set for ourselves. Other reasons we become overly body conscious are cultural in nature, while still others reflect family assumptions and expectations.
The National Eating Disorders Association reports that at any given time an estimated 40 to 50 percent of American women are trying to lose weight. Of those who succeed, 95 percent regain their lost weight and more within five years.
For a portion of the U.S. population, the pursuit of a "perfect" body becomes a dangerous obsession, causing individuals to engage in extreme eating behaviors they keep hidden from family and friends. Affected persons suffer emotionally, psychologically and physically.
Are you aware of the latest facts on the types, symptoms and impact of eating disorders? This short quiz can help bring you up to date.
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People who are constantly on diets have an eating disorder.
True
False
Incorrect. The general criteria for eating disorders are preoccupation regarding food and body image, extreme eating patterns and psychological problems.
Correct! The general criteria for eating disorders are preoccupation regarding food and body image, extreme eating patterns and psychological problems.
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Males are at risk for eating disorders.
True
False
Correct! About 20 to 30 percent of younger anorexics are males.
Incorrect. About 20 to 30 percent of younger anorexics are males.
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Laxatives and diuretics offer a way to lose weight quickly.
True
False
Incorrect. Only water is lost - not weight.
Correct! Only water is lost - not weight.
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Anorexics perceive themselves as fat even when they are well below a normal weight range.
True
False
Correct! Their body image is severely distorted.
Incorrect. Their body image is severely distorted.
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Anorexia has the highest death rate of any psychiatric illness.
True
False
Correct! From five to 20 percent of diagnosed patients lose their lives to this disorder.
Incorrect. From five to 20 percent of diagnosed patients lose their lives to this disorder.
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People with bulimia nervosa usually stay within their normal weight range.
True
False
Correct! They eat enormous amounts of food (binge) and then take extreme measures (self-induced vomiting, abuse of laxatives, diuretics) in order not to gain weight.
Incorrect. They eat enormous amounts of food (binge) and then take extreme measures (self-induced vomiting, abuse of laxatives, diuretics) in order not to gain weight.
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Dental problems may be a symptom of bulimia.
True
False
Correct! With constant vomiting of stomach acids, teeth enamel may be eroded and decay can set it.
Incorrect. With constant vomiting of stomach acids, teeth enamel may be eroded and decay can set it.
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The likelihood of a full recovery from an eating disorder is poor.
True
False
Incorrect. Though treatment may require an extended period of time, many affected individuals recover fully - particularly if professional help is sought early on.
Correct! Though treatment may require an extended period of time, many affected individuals recover fully - particularly if professional help is sought early on.
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An episode of binge eating often soothes the individual.
True
False
Correct! Binge eaters frequently relieve feelings of tension or anger with food.
Incorrect. Binge eaters frequently relieve feelings of tension or anger with food.
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Individuals are usually relieved when family or friends confront them with concerns about their eating behaviors.
True
False
Incorrect. Denial is the far more common reaction -- and a symptom of the disorder.
Correct! Denial is the far more common reaction -- and a symptom of the disorder.
For more information on women's health matters, any of the programs and services listed, or a referral to a Cedars-Sinai physician or program, call 1-800-CEDARS-1 (1-800-233-2771)
