I was doing some research regarding a particular style of dress when I stumbled upon this photo of a model that I seriously think is WAY TOO THIN! I couldn’t believe my eyes at how thin this model is and one of her leg looks like it’s broken or something. I’ve seen many skinny women but at least they don’t look sick! The model in the photo looks like she hasn’t eaten in a week. It’s really disturbing!

I found this article by Julie D. Holland, MHS, CEDS, chief marketing officer of Eating Recovery Center, a licensed behavioral hospital providing comprehensive treatment and sustainable recovery for eating disorders about how to determine whether someone is indeed too thin. Read on…..

How thin is too thin? How do you know if you, your friend or a loved one is in fact too thin and doesn’t simply have a naturally thin body type?

1. Hollowness to their cheeks and face. Someone who might be overly thin and actually anorexic has an empty or hollow look to his or her face. There’s a lack of brightness and color within their eyes and skin.
2. Discomfort with his or her body. Constantly posturing themselves and observing how they look in mirrors and other reflections. They may also make frequent comments about feeling fat or overweight.
3. Withdrawing from usual friends and activities. An individual who might be engaging in disordered eating behaviors often removes themselves from their former everyday activities either to minimize comments from others or to exercise to “burn off” any calories consumed during the day.

“Thin is too thin when you’re constantly obsessing about what you’re eating or what your body looks like and comparing yourself to others,” explains Marla Scanzello, MS, RD, Dietary Supervisor of Eating Recovery Center. “It’s when you’re constantly trying to reach a lower weight and feeling that controlling your weight is a way to control your life.”

You’re so much more than a number on a scale. Try not to worry about your friends’ or others’ weights compared to your own. Instead focus on being within a healthy weight range that’s right for you. Talk with your parents, family doctor, a dietitian or nutritionist if you’re concerned about your weight and/or body shape. Additionally, please feel free or chat confidentially online with Eating Recovery Center (www.EatingRecoveryCenter.com) to get your questions answered.