Anorexia nervosa is characterized by a significant weight loss as a result of dieting. In their attempts to become thinner, the anorexic will avoid food and taking in calories at all costs, which can result in death.
Anorexics are usually perfectionists and set very high standards for themselves.
They usually always put the needs of others ahead of their own. Anorexics may believe the only control they have in their lives in the areas of food and weight. The number on the scale usually determines whether or not they are succeeding or failing. Focusing on calories and losing weight can also be their way of numbing themselves or blocking out feelings and emotions. Anorexics usually have low self-esteem and feel they do not deserve to eat.