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Expert Q&A

 

By Eve Eliot
Eating Disorder Expert

I think my son has developed an eating disorder because a girl he wants to date only goes out with thin boys. What should I do?

If your son continues to restrict his food so that his weight drops at least 15 percent and his food restriction continues for over three months, then you can begin to worry. Right now, he may just be experimenting with different ways to attract girls, to redesign his body, to feel differently about himself. Just because a young man wants to be thinner does not necessarily point to an eating disorder.

While I can understand your concern, I would adopt a "wait and see" position. If his weight drops so much that it seems unnatural, contact your family healthcare provider."

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