Though the disease has typically been recognized as a female problem, a growing number of males with eating disorders are being recognized. But with males, leaving the team usually stops the eating disorder. If left untreated, eating disorders can be fatal. Anorexia is especially dangerous because the starved body begins to use muscle fat to survive. A multi-treatment approach is needed to help those with eating disorders, she said.
Individual treatment followed by group-counseling sessions are most effective.
Anyone who is concerned about a friend or loved one must be careful in approaching them about their problem, said Mueller, adding the best help to is simply to be a good friend. Friends and family must be understanding and not be the food police. People with eating disorders cannot help themselves.