An eating disorder means a person is not able to use food in a normal way.  Food consumption and weight are usually not the focus, but symptoms of a deeper, emotional issue.  The Hot Topics series attempts to provide a variety of facts and opinions so young people can think critically and become knowledgeable.  The three main types of eating disorders (anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating) are explained.  There is a brief history of eating disorders and how neurotransmitters (serotonin and dopamine) can affect appetite behaviors.  Personal stories, some with true names withheld, tell of those dealing with this disorder.  One chapter deals only with diagnosis and treatment and how complicated it can be.  The final chapter focuses on prevention.  This targets those at-risk as well as providing over-all health advice while attempting to change beliefs and attitudes about body image.  Education is the key to protecting oneself and understanding the pull of eating disorders.  In the back are many pages of notes of the resources used, discussion questions for each chapter, other books to read, websites, and an index.  This is a starting place for information about eating disorders.