Eating disorders such as anorexia, bulimia and binge-eating are rife in today’s society, affecting thousands of women and, increasingly, men.

These orders can be incredibly destructive, affecting not only the body but the mind. Food becomes a weapon of self-destruction in the face of societal problems, low self-esteem and emotional problems. 

Feast or Famine is a comprehensive guide for those currently battling an eating disorder and for their families and friends. It covers facts about each of the three main disorders and features first-hand accounts and interviews with doctors and psychologists working on the front line of the battle for recovery.

Karen, a former anorexic, knows full well the horror of being in the grip of an eating disorder. Yet the message of this book is hope, featuring the inspirational stories of survivors and many practical suggestions for getting help, including the latest information on treatment and therapy.

Praise for Feast or Famine:

Karen McMillan has written Feast or Famine, an excellent guide for anyone either battling a disorder of their own, or needing to understand and help a family member or friend. She also puts into perspective our culture's obsession with thinness, and dieting. Herself a former anorexic, she speaks to fellow sufferers as well as professionals, and the second half of the book is a very practical guide to "getting help". Margie Thomson, Herald on Sunday

Studies have shown a staggering 75 percent of Western women are dissatisfied with their bodies and that girls are more afraid of fat than of nuclear war or losing their parents. Little wonder then that a few develop a tormented relationship with food that can ruin their lives and occasionally kill them. Karen McMillan gives an honest, intelligent account of eating disorders and where to turn for help. Air New Zealand Magazine

Feast or Famine is published by Random House. See the following website for further information: www.randomhouse.co.nz

You can purchase Feast or Famine from www.womensbookshop.co.nz