In the wake of her well-received books, "Crave: Why You Binge Eat and How to Stop" and "The Woman in the Mirror: How to Stop Confusing What You Look Like with Who You Are," Cynthia Bulik has released "Midlife Eating Disorders," which addresses the challenges specific to an older age group. As usual, Bulik delivers a wealth of information in a well-organized, engaging and personable way.

Not your teenage daughter's recovery manual, this book stands out in its focus on midlife eating disorders. After describing the older faces of anorexia, bulimia, purging disorder and binge eating disorder, Bulik devotes attention to the often overlooked presentation and treatment of eating disorders in men. The final section of the book provides guidance for staying on the path to recovery in midlife.

The book contains much wisdom about the causes, context and treatment of midlife eating disorders. She advises readers to have patience and self-compassion; eating disorders go away over time just as they develop with time. She tells readers to eat, asserting that, regardless of the disorder, eating plays a crucial role in recovery. She reminds readers to expect bumps along the road; expecting a linear recovery will result in disappointment. Learn from obstacles and learn how to effectively respond to them.

Finally, Bulik emphasizes that recovery requires both team work and a solo effort. It cannot happen in a vacuum so build a strong support team of therapists, partners, friends and family. However, only the individual can seek recovery and put effort into achieving it. So be persistent, find what you love about yourself and acknowledge progress no matter how small. Fine advice that sheds light on navigating the dark path of midlife eating disorders.

This book is always available in the PlaneTree Health Information Center @ Cupertino Library. CB 800 B 2013