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Anorexia/Eating Disorders/Information about Eating Disorders

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Expert: Reverend Abbott - 4/18/2005


Question
Hello. My name is Sara Reed and I am anorexic. I would like to know, some facts about it.

Answer
Hi Sara, I'm Rev. Abbott and I too am anorexic (in recovery), as well as bulimic (also in recovery). One of the most difficult things an anorexic truly needs to admit is that it's not about weight or diet or size. It's not numbers at all, although the numbers seem to control us. These eating disorders are mental health issues - frequently with origins in events from our childhoods.
Anorexics (deep down) feel out of control of many things in life and self-starvation is the only tool that is somewhat easy to substitute (mimics 'control').

Even when an anorexic enters recovery and starts eating again, no matter how healthy, it's highly possible for heart problems to cut life short. Bone density difficulties, kidney and liver trouble, all sorts of hidden things can become apparent at any time.

Still, at least there's a chance for survival. If untreated, anorexics (just about 100%) will die.

Take a look at my site for more detailed info and some very honest (graphic) photos of what this disease does.
 
By the way - good for you Sara - for taking a step toward self survival!

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Anorexia/Eating Disorders

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Reverend Abbott

Expertise

I have lived it and survived it. I know every excuse, reason, thought, feeling and rationalization - and I'm going to be very honest in my advice.

Experience

I've lost (& gained)HUNDREDS of lbs over a lifetime, more than 30 years of "professional dieting". Presently a counselor for sufferers of eating disorders, a nutritional advisor and spiritual counselor (Reverend,doctor); I've been on every diet there is and used the most bizarre weight loss products you can imagine. I am FORMERLY obese, anorexic (several times), bulimic MOST of the time - and maintaining size 4, with no gimmicks, devices, programs, pills or supplements.

I currently investigate the diet industry on behalf of consumers who do not need to be ripped off while struggling to be healthy. I WILL expose them all and I WON'T be intimidated, bullied or bought. My advice is for cost-free options. I have nothing whatsoever to gain from my recommendation(s). I make no money from my website and I sell, promote, endorse NO diet/health products, programs or devices. You'll also never see me on the receiving end of a hidden camera report...but you can be assured, I won't quit until I've exposed those who are out to take advantage of you.

It's a matter of choices. We need to stop complicating things.


Degrees & Certifications:
I'm an ordained minister (Reverend, doctor) spiritual/living/behavior counselor.

I have a medical education and management background (with college). Through early 90's (until retirement) Who's Who Of American Women; Who's Who On the East Coast; Who's Who Among Emerging American Leaders; Who's Who Of Intellectuals - all for "outstanding performance in (my) field".



Organizations
While active (through the 1980's), included in Who's Who Of American Women; Who's Who On the East Coast; Who's Who Among Emerging American Leaders; Who's Who Of Intellectuals - all for "outstanding performance in (my) field".



Education/Credentials
Ordained Minister; phlebotomist; medical information researcher for court cases

Awards and Honors
Doctorate of Divinity

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