attractive and the media reinforces this statement." Young adolescent girls buy into this sensation and through doing so, set themselves up for failure. When these predisposing factors are combined with stressors and pressures, the cycle is begun and an eating disorder is formed.

Effects

The altered eating and exercise patterns of those with eating disorders can seriously damage physical and emotional health. The ANAB (n.d.) contends activities associated with eating disorders place one in medical danger. Strenuous over-exercising is often seen in those with eating disorders even though they may be quite ill. The body of an eating disorder sufferer frequently has electrolyte imbalances and gastrointestinal problems. The vomiting seen in bulimics is a key contributor to these problems. With vomiting, key electrolytes are lost which can lead to fatigue, muscle spasms, and irregular heartbeats (ANAB (n.d.)). Repeated vomiting also leads to erosion of the lining...