France Bans Super Skinny Models; 8 Anorexia Nervosa Facts - Signs, Symptoms & More!

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A new bill approved by the French legislature has made it illegal for modeling agencies and fashion houses to employ models who are too thin. The new law that was passed on Friday declares that the use of models that have a dangerously low BMI (under 18) could result in jail time and fines, according to Reuters.

"The activity of model is banned for any person whose Body Mass Index (BMI) is lower than levels proposed by health authorities and decreed by the ministers of health and labor," according to the lawmakers. In addition, the legislation requires all models to procure a medical certificate that satisfies the conditions of what was deemed an acceptable weight. All model BMI's should be at least 18 or about 121 lb (55 kg) for a 5.7 ft (1.75) height. The law is part of France's preventive measures against the idealization of anorexia in the country, especially amongst teenagers.

1.) What is Anorexia?

Anorexia or anorexia nervosa is a type of psychological disorder rooted in the obsession of controlling ones eating or dieting to the extreme in order to lose weight, according to Medicine Net.

2.) What are the Signs and Symptoms of Anorexia?

A person affected by anorexia has deep seated fears relating to their weight and body image which may result in "restrictive eating", exercising too much, using diet pills, use of laxatives and diuretics to induce weight loss.

3.) Who Becomes Anorexic?

Anorexia primarily affects girls and women but can also affect boys and men. Caucasians are more susceptible than other races and is usually found in people who belong in the middle to upper socioeconomic backgrounds.

4.) What Causes Anorexia?

According to WebMD, there is no singular cause to anorexia. It is believed to be a combination of emotional, physical, and social triggers. Some teens use the condition to cope adolescent challenges and stress.

5.) What happens to the body of the person with anorexia?

Anorexia affects the whole body because it doesn't get the nutrition it needs from food not being eaten, notes Women's Health. The most notable effects of anorexia include bruised skin, brittle hair, mood swings, anemia, constipation, and palpitations.

6.) Can A Person with Anorexia Get Better?

Yes, they can get better with the help and intervention of the family, doctors, nutritionists, and therapists.

7.) How is Anorexia Treated?

According to Help Guide, anorexia treatment involves the following: medical and nutritional treatment as well as counseling and therapy. This can help the person who suffers from anorexia to get back to a healthy weight, eat more, and improve their relationship with food and eating.

8.) Are there online resources for finding professional treatment?

EDReferral.com - A database of treatment providers

NEDA Information & Referral Helpline - A helpline that offers referrals and advice.