On this assumption, obesity is simply on a continuum of eating disorders with anorexia nervosa, which has been defined as a mental illness.

They believe this would put women at risk for distorted body image, anorexia, bulimia, or other eating disorders, which can lead to death, especially among the young.

The formal diagnosis criteria differ, however, in that subjects must binge at least twice per week for a minimum period of three months for bulimia nervosa and a minimum of 6 months for BED.

The concerned mother has attempted to get her daughters released with the help of UN's special rapporteur on human rights. She says she is especially worried for the health of Princess Hala, who allegedly suffers from anorexia.