Think about advertising.  The female population is inundated with photo after photo of the “perfect body” according to modeling agencies and style magazines.  Especially during the teenage years, the pressure to fit in and be liked by the opposite sex can lead to an unrealistic view of their bodies.

The same goes for men.  Seeing rock hard abs on models and male actors has them wondering if they need to look like that to attract girls.  This jaded thinking can lead to unhealthy eating and exercising habits that ruin a boy’s health and his self-image.

Men are still hesitant to come forward and reveal themselves as having a problem with eating disorders.  It is still thought of by some professionals as a ìfemaleî disease and they are not diagnosing it as much in males.  To help raise awareness, a few Hollywood actors have stepped forth and admitted that they suffer from eating disorders.

To heighten awareness, parents and others have to become familiar with the signs and symptoms of eating disorders not only for their daughters but also for their sons.  The first step is acceptance of the disorder in men and boys to shatter the stigma that is keeping them from getting the help that they need.