Could size 00 be ruining your work relationships?

Considered to be highly regarded as one of the most photographed women in the UK and recently voted as Yummiest Mummy 2006, Victoria Beckham supposedly has a 23-inch waist, and size 00 has become the prize for many women who choose to conform to the demands of supposed modern feminity.

This way of thinking is starting to trickle its way into the office, looking good for work is something us girls always strive to achieve and the differences between the catwalk and reality has started to become a bit of a blur. The size 00 epidemic can result in mood swings, depression and fatigue, which can alienate you from your work colleagues and can un-earth a whole can of worms.

Shopping on the high street doesn't help either, each store differs in its sizing and the poster girl of choice in the high street screams that you can only look good if your as thin as me.
Its been reported on national radio that one model working at London Fashion Week only eats 2 apples a day to keep herself slim, and drinks only water - including when she attends socialite parties.

How does this affect those at work?: Not eating a balanced diet can result in feeling moody and on edge, resulting in low self-esteem and feeling worthless. Often it can be seen to be putting themselves down and complaining of being "too stupid" or "too fat". The need for acceptance and approval from others is high on their agenda.

If you know some-one who you believe has an eating disorder do ask them if they're okay, don't rush in telling them that they're too thin, don’t judge them, the best thing any of us can do for our friends is to make them feel accepted and unconditionally loved. Once they feel safe enough to tell us how they really feel and ask for help, they almost always will.

For further information about eating disorders please visit http://www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk/