Fighting the Internet’s ‘pro-Ana’ forces

“Pro Ana” websites, places where children and teenagers can find support to advance their eating disorders, have shocked and frustrated parents and health professionals.

To counter that influence, the National Eating Disorders Assn. has launched a new website for teens to support healthy eating and body image.

The site, Proud2Bme.org, is an interactive site that offers news about health, beauty, fashion and pop culture in an environment that encourages realistic attitudes about weight and personal health.

“It’s high time we seriously listen to their concerns -- from issues of body confidence to their understanding and views of society and media -- and to give them a safe, positive environment in which to interact online,” said Lynn Grefe, chief executive of NEDA.

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