Eating disorders in males may be overlooked because anorexia and bulimia are relatively rare in boys and men. The longer abnormal eating behaviors persist, the more difficult it is to overcome the disorder and its effects on the body. In some cases, long-term treatment may be needed. Families and friends offering support and encouragement can play an important role in the success of the treatment program. The efforts of mental health professionals need to be combined with those of other health professionals to obtain the best treatment.
Physicians treat any medical complications, and nutritionists advise on diet and eating regimens.
The challenge of treating eating disorders is made more difficult by the metabolic changes associated with them. Just to maintain a stable weight, individuals with anorexia may actually have to consume more calories than someone of similar weight and age without an eating disorder. In contrast, some normal weight people with bulimia may gain excess weight if they consume the number of calories required to maintain normal weight in others of similar size and age. Helping the Person With an Eating Disorder Treatment can save the life of someone with an eating disorder. Friends, relatives, teachers, and physicians all play an important role in helping the ill person start and stay with a treatment program.