Eating disorders

Anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa present special challenges for physicians. Considerable skill and flexibility, as well as a collaborative spirit, are required to address the important physical, psychological, and social dimensions of these eating disorders. The ideal treatment is an individualized program designed to (1) eliminate the multifaceted effects of a body weight driven well below the biologic set point, (2) develop self-esteem, including a healthy attitude toward the body, and (3) strengthen those aspects of the individual and the family that orient the patient to health instead of illness.