By: Erin Moore for Body1The fashion industry has been a hotbed for eating disorders over the years, even as awareness about prevalence and risks has grown. But with last week’s loss of young Israeli model Hila Elmalich – the next in a line of similar cases – comes more questions. Elmalich had suffered from anorexia for years, said agent, photographer, and friend Adi Barkan, who has fought to discourage unhealthy models from being allowed to work. He says he will not photograph models having a BMI (body mass index) of less than 19.
Israel was the first country to pass laws requiring models to maintain a healthy weight, in 2004. Last year Madrid Fashion Week made headlines by banning models with a BMI of less than 18 – and the United States has encouraged agencies to emphasize that beauty means health. Being healthy means eating a full and well-balanced diet and being physically active 30-60 minutes each day.
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