February 2007

Eating disorders are becoming increasingly prevalent in society. To raise awareness of the dangers of eating disorders, PAMF will be providing informational materials about anorexia nervosa (starving), bulimia (purging) and binging disorders at its Fremont, Palo Alto, Redwood City and Redwood Shores clinics during Eating Disorders Awareness Week from February 25 to March 3.

"Anyone can suffer from an eating disorder regardless of gender, age, race or ethnicity," said PAMF registered dietitian Elyse Robin. "Eating disorders often start with a weight loss diet and eventually turn into an obsession to become thinner and thinner, often with serious consequences. About 10 percent of all people with eating disorders die from complications of starving and/or purging."

Individuals suffering from eating disorders can work toward recovery with the help of a team of professionals trained to treat such conditions, including a medical doctor; a psychotherapist; a dietitian; and a psychiatrist, if medication is necessary, said Robin.

For more information and handouts about eating disorders, please visit PAMF's Web site. To schedule a consultation with a PAMF dietitian, call the Department of Nutrition at (650) 853-2961.