Can you be anorexic and within the healthy weight range?
Asked by anonymous on Mar 27, 2008
in Eating Disorders
I have a history of bulimia but have not made myself throw up for a number of years. I currently feel more obsessed with weight and food than ever. I lost a great deal of weight by controlling my calories. Sometimes I would miss meals and exercise about four times a week. Weight gain makes me feel suicidal and I am thinking about and planning my meals days in advance. But I am of a healthy weight at BMI 20.5.
Answer
Eating disorders range from anorexia nervosa with substantial weight loss to binge-eating disorder with significant obesity. They are characterized by an obsession about weight and unusual eating behaviors. Not everyone displays every diagnostic symptom. The Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26) is widely used to screen for eating disorders. Take the test and follow the Eating Disorders Guide at About.com's recommendations regarding evaluation and treatment.
