If you’re not from the “world” of eating disorders, you might think that all disordered eaters treat one another the same.
Not so.
You see, like any other “clique”, those with EDs have a caste system, a heirarchy of sorts.  It’s not usually discussed, but it definitely exists. 
Allow me to explain (and feel free to let me know if any of this has changed recently or if I’m missing something)…

Ana loves moms (and dads) who ignore her presence.  She absolutely adores them.  In fact, they keep her going strong day-in, day-out.
So to shake things up, let’s throw a monkey wrench in her plans.
Rather than playing the role of the naive mommy, why don’t we all ban together and educate ourselves on the realities of Ana, Mia, Rexie and all their controlling cousins?
If you’re with me, why not start by taking a gander at this posting over at momlogic?  The gist of the column is an interview with a former gymnast who finally reveals why all those gals REALLY have …read more

Just when you thought eating disorders were cut-and-dry… I’ve come up with a little glossary of Ana-Speak to help you understand the lingo of this dangerous world that entices so many people.
Ana for Smarties (because I’m not going to call you dumb!)
Ana – anorexia or anorexic, also used as kind of an anorexic icon or ”muse”
B&P - binge and purge 
BED – binge eating disorder
COE – compulsive over exercise OR compulsive over eater (I’ve seen it used both ways)
ED – eating disorder 
Mia – bulimia or bulimic, also used as kind of a bulimic icon or “muse”
Rexie – also used for anorexia or anorexic, but …read more