"Fat Poem"

Please take the time to watch this video. You won't regret it.

A good friend of mine posted this video yesterday and I knew instantly it needed to be shared. As I watched with tear soaked cheeks, it brought back way too many memories of days I spent purging on the bathroom floor. 

Earlier this month, I did a post about Eating Disorder Awareness Month; the video goes into a little detail about the dangers of eating disorders, but I thought it would be a good idea to elaborate to keep with the awareness trend. Also, because the "Fat Poem" video is so powerful, I wanted to keep the focus on that and keep this post simple. 

Here is a list of the dangers associated with eating disorders:

Malnutrition

Dehydration

Electrolyte Imbalances

Heart Disease

Bone Loss

Muscle Weakness

Hair Loss

Dry Skin

Brittle Nails

Intestinal Damage

Enamel Erosion

Loss of Menstrual Cycle

Infertility

Headaches

Brain Damage

Decreased Blood Pressure

Decrease Heart Rate

Thyroid Damage

Lanugo

Constipation

Mild Anemia

Reduced Muscle Mass

Lightheadedness

Depression 

Anxiety

OCD Tendencies

Slowed Reaction Time

Irritability

Isolation

Preoccupied Thoughts

Mood Swings

Fatigue

Insomnia

Inflamed Esophagus

Swollen Cheeks

Edema

Kidney Infection & Failure

Osteoporosis

Easily Bruised Skin

Cramps

Bloating

Peptic Ulcers

Pancreatitis

Seizures

Death

Phew. Sadly, I know I missed quite a few. 

For the first time in a decade, I am taking part in Eating Disorder Awareness Month on the other side; the recovery side. Just like I teared up as I watched that video, I am now tearing up as I realize how much time I wasted putting myself in danger of every single one of these health risks. Eating disorders are scary and often times feel hopeless, but I am firm believer that if I can overcome my addictions, all of you can, too. 

Just like the "Fat Poem" video says, freedom is possible.  

Progress.