Depriving the body of food or binging on food can interfere with how it functions. This can lead to health consequences, and some of them can’t be reversed. People with anorexia don’t get enough vitamins and minerals, which can cause the kidneys to stop working. They can end up with severe infections, go blind and even have a heart attack. Anorexia also interferes with the general development of the body during the teenage years. Girls can stop getting their period as a result of not having enough body fat.

People who binge (eat a lot of food) and people with bulimia—who binge and purge (vomit)—also deprive their body of nutrients and also place strain on the lining of the stomach, esophagus and even on their teeth. Binging, either with vomiting or without, can also affect cholesterol levels and insulin levels, increasing the risk for other health conditions that may not be reversible.

Eating disorders sometimes develop as a means of coping with stressors in one’s life. It creates an additional stressor in one’s life, instead of helping that person develop healthy coping mechanisms. In addition, people with eating disorders can become depressed, withdraw from family, friends and school activities.

If you or someone you know has an eating disorder, helpful resources are available. Also, talk with a trusted adult—a parent, teacher, school counselor, coach, neighbor or another relative.