Tyler,TX — In the United States, nearly 10 million females and 1 million males are fighting a life and death battle, with an eating disorder such as anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder.

Local Registered Dietitian, Sara Upson, Founder of "My Signature Nutrition" provides help for East Texas.

"I decided to start an eating disorder support group because there's a huge need in East Texas for individuals with eating disorders until I got here there was not a support group for people to go to," says Sara Upson, Registered Dietitian.

It is the only support group in East Texas.

"They don't think they have a problem and a lot of time their family, their friends, their doctors, their dentists, are the first people to see that and refer them on to somebody else," says Sara Upson, Registered Dietitian.

Sara Upson tells KETK, the support group is free. People need to call to get screened before attending.

Upson explains are there are three types of eating disorders. Anorexia nervosa characterized as low weight and self-starvation.

Bulimia Nervosa is characterized as cycles of binging and purging, and binge eating disorder over-eating large quantities of food without purging.

Upson shares a quote of a support group member. Anonymous quote-

"Thanks for doing the group. It was great and really gave me some things to think about. I really like how you are working to make a difference in Tyler by bringing a new perspective and offering what you do. Thanks!"

Eating Disorder Support Group

Thursday, 7:00-8:00 p.m.. Free.

Tyler, TX

Registered Dietitian tells KETK, all new members must be screened before coming to the group.

For information:
www.mysignaturenutrition.com

A Screening Tool for Eating Disorders- 5 questions

1.) Do you make yourself sick because you feel comfortable?

2.) Do you worry you have lost control over how much you eat?

3.) Have you recently lost more than 14 pounds in a three-month period?

4.) Do you believe yourself to be fat when others say your are thin?

5.) Would you say that food dominates your life?

If you answered yes to two or more questions it is possible you have an eating disorder or a deeper issue related to food, dieting, and weight that needs attention.

Provided by My Signature Nutrition, LLC. Sara Upson, M.Ed, RD,LD