Failure to maintain one's body weight at a normal level, resulting from an intense desire to be thin, a fear of gaining weight, or a disturbance in body image.
Anorexia nervosa usually starts in late adolescence and occurs mostly in young women. One will go to great lengths to resist eating and to lose weight, including bulimia and vigorous exercise. A usual symptom is amenorrhea . Medical complications can be life-threatening. Treatment includes psychological and social therapy.