Teen suspects mom is anorexic

DEAR AMY: I am 15 years old. I have recently become a vegetarian for several reasons (mostly because I disagree with beef-production methods). My mom is slightly overweight, but certainly nothing bad. She recently decided to become vegetarian as well, but I suspect she is doing so because she thinks it will help her lose weight. I am very health conscious, enjoy fruits and vegetables, and believe in well-rounded meals. Is it possible for a mom to be anorexic? She seems to take eating to the extremes. She will often not eat more than a few noodles for dinner, skips breakfast often (she "forgets"), and I have no idea if she eats anything when I'm at school. She claims she can get by eating much less, and will hardly ever have dessert or any sort of fried food. I have tried to help her realize this is not healthy, but she is in denial. I am growing increasingly frustrated and worried. What do you suggest?--Frustrated

DEAR FRUSTRATED: Anyone -- at any age -- can develop an eating disorder. You should be honest with your mother about this. If you continue to suspect she is in trouble, tell an adult family member or friend who might be able to help.

Adult women and teenagers have different metabolism and needs. Your mother may eat her biggest meal at lunchtime (I do), and then try to have less food in the evening.

As new vegetarians, you both need to make sure your diets are nutritionally balanced. It would be best to see a nutritionist together. Also cook and eat together. The first function of food is to nourish your body. But food provides an important communal and family function.

I'm a fan of vegetarian cook Mollie Katzen. Her newest recipe book is "The Heart of the Plate: Vegetarian Recipes for a New Generation."