Are you on a serious weight-loss spree in order to grab that modeling assignment for your favorite brand? Read this before you starve any further.
In a report by “The Sun”, ex-model Victoire Dauxerre relates her own story of being anorexic and suicidal only to be applauded and appreciated by top fashion brands and model agencies. At the age of 17, she was so highly anorexic and underweight, that her menstruation stopped and had hair fall out in chunks. She was, however, in great demand for the ramp and the fashion industry biggies wanted her for their size-zero apparel launches! “The skinnier I got, the more jobs I got — so I just kept on going. When I went to my agency having lost weight, they would applaud me.” she remarked.
Eating disorders are just as serious as any other mental health disorder and can be potential killers too. One of the most common eating disorders that mainly plague young girls and women, in an endeavor to look appealing across the world is anorexia nervosa, which is often simply referred to as anorexia.
Anorexia – Signs and Symptoms
Anorexia is characterized by extremely low body weight, a distorted view of one’s own body, intense fear about putting on weight and other such symptoms. An anorexic person is likely to starve for days on end, in hopes of losing weight, not realizing that it might prove to be fatal.
However, there is a difference between a person who is naturally thin and someone who is anorexic. If you suspect that a loved one has been losing weight suspiciously or might be anorexic, you can keep out an eye for the following symptoms:
They tend to Starve
Observe the eating habits of the said person. A person who is naturally thin might eat less than the average person, but wouldn’t restrict themselves. On the other hand, a person who is anorexic will have severe fears about gaining weight. They would feel that even a small portion of food could lead them to gain weight. Naturally, they would avoid anything to do with food. Starving themselves is another symptom of anorexia.
Obsessed with Calories
A person who is anorexic might act “weird” when there’s food around. For instance, they might cut their food up into tiny pieces or might push the bits of food around in their plate – actually, in an attempt to avoid consuming it. Much to the annoyance of others, they might seem obsessed with calories. They would be counting calories with every morsel of food that they eat.
Abnormal Eating Routine
An average thin person might not really want to eat out all the time, but that’s because they have an appetite that’s lesser than you. On the other hand, an anorexic person would make excuses to avoid eating as a routine. They would find excuses to even avoid the three most important meals of the day. “I’m just not feeling hungry” or “I’m sick” or even “I really need to lose some weight” are some common things that you get to hear.
Sudden and Marked Weight Loss
You’ll notice an abrupt change in their weight. Since they’re basically not eating anything, they will be losing weight at an alarming rate. Anyone would be able to notice the unhealthy change in weight. It would be evident in their appearance. They would appear weak, fidgety, lethargic, bony and all in all, unhealthy. Their appearance should be enough to help you distinguish them from a naturally healthy person.
So, if you are an aspiring model, and have been consciously skipping meals for days together, to flaunt a zero-figure, remember, anorexia can make you seriously ill and ruin all your dreams altogether. Of course, you should take inspiration from our Bollywood stars like Sonam Kapoor, Alia Bhat or recently, Parineeti Chopra, who have worked real hard to shed those extra kilos, but that does not mean they starved! There are differences between a person who is naturally thin and someone who has gone to extreme lengths to lose weight. If someone you know suffers from this eating disorder, seek professional help before it’s too late.
Read Also: CICO Diet – What You Must Know Before Trying
DISCLAIMER: While we have taken steps to check the accuracy of information & practices shared here; it is not a replacement for a doctor’s opinion. it is important to first always check with your own doctor before trying any medication, practice or suggestion from this site.
