Eating Disorders & Obesity
Eating disorders and obesity can lead to dangerous medical problems and even death. There ARE effective treatments.
Choose one of the topics below for more information:
For more information and help regarding obesity and eating disorders, call your doctor or behavioral health organization:
Obesity
Obesity has doubled in children and tripled in youth in ages 12-19 years. Ways to prevent obesity:
- Physical activity
- Eat healthy foods
- Check In, with your doctor
If you think you may be overweight or obese, contact your doctor and make an appointment. The Family Assistance Service Center at 1-866-311-4287 can also help.
Anorexia
- Intense fear of gaining weight, even when underweight
- Distorted body image (claiming to be fat when not)
- Weight loss of at least 25% of normal body weight
- Refusing to maintain healthy body weight
- Absence of at least three menstrual cycles
Please contact your doctor if you experience any of these warning signs. Contact TennCare Partners Advocacy Line at 1-800-758-1638 or www.tpal.org
Bulimia
- Recurrent episodes of binging (out of control eating)
- Self-induced vomiting
- Use of laxatives or diuretics (water pills)
- Frequent fluctuations in weight
- Excuses to go to the bathroom immediately after meals
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