Focus on the Family Africa

Ask Dr. Paul — Eating Disorders, Moles and Vitamins

Answers From Paul Rothwell, M.D.

I have a friend who won’t eat for up to two days. She skips meals at school, looks sick and has headaches a lot. I’m worried that she might have anorexia, but I’m afraid she’ll get mad if I tell anyone. Please help!
It’s not normal for a girl your age to have a poor appetite. Lots of diseases can cause a poor appetite, but there’s also a good possibility that your friend has an eating disorder.

She may not be truly anorexic, but she sure has a lot of the warning signs: skipping meals, weakness and headaches. Her parents and other friends may have noticed some of her behavior changes, but don’t rely on that possibility.

I encourage you to confront your friend about the problem, and let her know you want to help. And the best way you can help? Get her to talk with her parents or a counselor. You’re probably in for a tough battle, because one of the major problems of someone with anorexia nervosa is denial — she may not even realize she has a serious problem until it’s too late!

The Plugged In Department at Focus on the Family has created a great informational booklet on eating disorders called "Starving for Acceptance."

I have two moles on my neck. How can I get rid of them? Can I use wart remover?
All “moles” aren’t really moles. A mole is usually round, raised and pigmented — but not always. The most feared type of mole is a melanoma, which is cancerous and requires special care.

A melanoma is usually black or multicolored. It has irregular borders and may have smaller moles surrounding it. Obviously, all black moles aren’t malignant, but all moles should be looked at closely.

Never try to destroy a mole with wart remover. First, see your doctor for an examination. Most moles have to be surgically removed. This can usually be done under local anesthesia. If you’re worried, please see your doctor immediately.

Most of my friends are taller than me. I’ve tried vitamins and everything else I can think of to make me grow, but I’m not growing. What can I do?
Every girl develops at her own rate. Most girls begin puberty between the ages of 9 and 13. Some even start a little earlier, and some have been known to begin later. Sounds pretty vague, doesn’t it? That’s because it is! The rate at which your body develops is what’s normal for you!

For most girls, the first sign of puberty is a growth spurt. This might explain the difference in size among your friends. Some are probably in the midst of puberty, some are just beginning, and some of your friends may still be waiting. Again, no one’s abnormal because she’s a little behind or ahead of someone else.

I’m not aware of any food supplement or vitamin that will stimulate growth. But don’t worry! Your body is simply listening to the inner clock which God has set to go off at just the right time for you. His timing is perfect — always!

Dr. Paul, my back is killing me! I sleep on a firm mattress and exercise a lot. What gives?
A girl your age shouldn’t have a problem with constant back pain. Obviously, good posture while sitting at school is very important, as well as exercise. But even more important is that you do the right exercises.

Most physicians and physical therapists have back exercises that would be appropriate for your age. My advice if back pain persists? Or if the pain travels to your legs? You probably know what I’m going to say, don’t you? See your doctor! You shouldn’t have to battle that kind of pain.

I have a problem with weight and try to eat the right things. I know that it’s important for me to exercise, but just how important is exercise in keeping my weight under control?
The best way to keep your weight down and feel terrific is to exercise regularly! There really is no substitute for this! Not only will exercise help you control your weight, but you’ll also gain more stamina and flexibility. Need more reasons to exercise? Okay, you’ll also be strengthening your heart, lungs and bones.

I know it’s sometimes hard to make yourself get up and go exercise. So I suggest you try something you really enjoy — like walking, biking, skating or swimming. Aerobic exercise, the stuff that gets your heart going, is the key. I recommend a minimum of 30 minutes of aerobic exercise four times a week.

These are the opinions of one physician and not necessarily those of Focus on the Family. In similar cases, you should consult your own physician.
Last updated June 2004.