Anorexia is more than
just a problem with food. It's a way of using food or starving oneself to feel
more in control of her life and to ease tension, anger, and anxiety.
While there is no single known cause of
anorexia, several things may contribute to the development of the disorder:
- Biology. Several biological factors, including genetics and other
related hormones, may contribute in the onset the disorder.
- Culture. Some cultures in the U.S.
have an ideal of extreme thinness. Women may define themselves on how
beautiful they are.
- Personal feelings. Someone with anorexia may feel badly about herself, feel
helpless, and hate the way she looks. She has unrealistic expectations of
herself and strives for perfection. She feels worthless, despite
achievements and perceives a social pressure to be thin.
- Stressful events or
life changes. Things like starting a new
school or job or being teased to traumatic events like rape can lead to
the onset of anorexia.
- Families. People with a mother or sister with anorexia are more likely
to develop the disorder. Parents who think appearance is very important,
diet themselves, and criticize their children's bodies are more likely to
have a child with anorexia.
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There is no such thing as an ideal weight for all. Bodies are all different and every person is unique – so the healthy weight for you as an individual will be something assessed depending on several different factors. 
Eating Disorders 
