How To Spot Warning Signs Of Eating Disorders
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Eating disorders are mental health conditions that can affect individuals of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. For many individuals, eating disorders are driven by a profound preoccupation with body image or body weight. However, these disorders can manifest in a variety of ways, making some warning signs of eating disorders harder to spot than others. A few potential warning signs include changes in eating habits or weight, compulsive exercise, anxiety and depression symptoms, dizziness and other physical concerns, and an extreme focus on food and body size. If you believe you may be living with an eating disorder, consider reaching out to a licensed mental health professional for support and guidance.
What is an eating disorder?
An eating disorder is a severe behavioral condition that can deeply impact an individual's relationship with food, their body image, and their overall self-esteem. Eating disorders are typically marked by significant disturbances in eating habits and are often linked to intense emotions and thoughts about body weight and shape.
People with eating disorders might engage in behaviors like excessive food restriction, binge eating, or purging, each potentially leading to a cycle of guilt, shame, and further unhealthy eating habits. There are a few different types of eating disorders, each with unique characteristics. However, all of them typically share the potential to contribute to severe physical and emotional harm and result in severe health consequences, both in the short- and long-term.
Common eating disorders
Understanding the different types of eating disorders can be key to recognizing their warning signs.
Anorexia nervosa
Anorexia nervosa is normally marked by an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image. Individuals may severely restrict their food intake, often to dangerous levels, yet still perceive themselves as overweight, even if they are very slim.
While most individuals with this eating disorder are underweight, it’s possible for people of any size to develop anorexia. Those who are not underweight may receive the diagnosis of “atypical anorexia nervosa.”
There are two subtypes of anorexia nervosa: the restrictive type, in which food intake is strictly limited, and the binge-purge type, which may involve occasional binge eating followed by purging. Anorexia nervosa can be extremely dangerous, with risks including multiorgan failure, heart damage, and a high mortality rate, as well as severe depression and a heightened risk of suicide.
Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID)
ARFID, previously known as selective eating disorder, typically involves extreme restriction in food intake, but not due to body image concerns. Individuals may avoid certain foods due to sensory issues, lack of interest in eating, or fear of negative consequences like choking.
Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder often begins in childhood but can persist into adulthood, sometimes leading to significant nutrient deficiencies that can affect growth in children and basic bodily functions in adults. When what appears to be “picky eating” becomes extreme and impacts development, professional help is necessary.
Binge eating disorder (BED)
Binge eating disorder appears to be the most common eating disorder in the U.S. Unlike bulimia nervosa, individuals with BED do not usually purge after binge eating. They often experience episodes in which they consume large amounts of food rapidly, often with a sense that they are out of control. This behavior is usually followed by guilt and distress, frequently leading to a cycle of binge eating and emotional pain. Many with BED are overweight or obese, which can increase their risk for diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension.
Bulimia nervosa
Bulimia nervosa is generally characterized by cycles of binge eating followed by purging through vomiting, laxative use, fasting, or excessive exercise. Unlike anorexia nervosa, those with bulimia are often of what is categorized as “normal” weight, which can make the disorder less readily noticeable.
The repeated cycle of binging and purging can lead to severe health issues, including damage to the esophagus, teeth, and gums from stomach acid, as well as dehydration and electrolyte imbalances that can lead to heart problems and even death.
Who can develop an eating disorder?
Despite common misconceptions, eating disorders do not discriminate. They can affect people of any age, race, gender, and socioeconomic status. While eating disorders are often mistakenly associated with young women alone, men, older adults, and children can also be affected.
For many, societal pressures to achieve a certain body type play a significant role in the development of eating disorders. In a culture that often equates thinness with success and beauty, the pressure to conform can be overwhelming, leading some individuals to develop unhealthy relationships with food and their bodies.
Still, it can be important to note that not everyone exposed to these pressures will develop an eating disorder. The onset of an eating disorder is typically the result of a combination of genetic, psychological, and environmental factors.
The consequences of weight loss and diet culture
The term “diet culture” generally refers to a rampant societal belief system that values weight loss over overall health. This toxic culture can damage mental health, potentially leading individuals to restrict food, exercise compulsively, or tie their self-worth to their body size, ultimately promoting disordered eating patterns.
Diet culture likely plays a significant role in the development of eating disorders, with studies estimating that around 30 million Americans will experience an eating disorder during their lifetime.
How to spot the warning signs
Recognizing the warning signs of eating disorders can be critical for early intervention. Therefore, it can be essential to pay attention to various behavioral and emotional signs. While each disorder has its own specific symptoms, there are common behaviors and physical changes that might indicate an underlying eating disorder:
- Dramatic changes in body weight: Sudden weight loss or weight gain can be a significant indicator of an eating disorder, although not all individuals with eating disorders display noticeable weight changes, and not all people who gain or lose weight have eating disorders.
- Preoccupation with food, body weight, or shape: Individuals with eating disorders may frequently talk about food, dieting, or weight loss. They may have an extreme focus on body image, often accompanied by dissatisfaction with their appearance.
- Changes in eating habits: You may notice that a person has begun to binge eat or eat in secret. Alternatively, you might notice restrictive eating habits, such as skipping meals or drastically reducing their overall food intake. Some individuals with eating disorders may develop rituals around food as well. They may cut it into tiny pieces, categorize various foods as “safe” or “unsafe,” or avoid eating meals with others, for example.
- Physical symptoms: Fatigue, dizziness, and gastrointestinal issues can be common in those living with eating disorders. You may also notice changes in a person’s skin, hair, and nails. For instance, their hair and skin may become dry, their hair may appear thinner, or they may experience hair loss. Some individuals with anorexia nervosa may also develop lanugo, or soft, downy hair on their arms and torso.
- Psychological symptoms: Anxiety and depression symptoms, as well as social withdrawal, can be common.
- Compulsive exercise: Some people with eating disorders may exercise for long periods of time or multiple times each day. They may experience a compulsion to exercise even when they are ill, exhausted, or injured.
Treatment for eating disorders
Early intervention is often key to treating eating disorders effectively. There are multiple treatment methods available for those experiencing eating disorder symptoms. Though methods may vary, the overall goal of treatment is usually not only to address the disordered eating behaviors but also to tackle the underlying emotional and psychological challenges.
For some individuals, treatment may involve a comprehensive approach, combining medical care, nutritional counseling, and psychological therapy. Medical care can be essential for monitoring and managing the physical health complications that often accompany eating disorders. Nutritional counseling can help individuals develop a healthier relationship with food, teaching them how to nourish their bodies properly.
Therapy can be another cornerstone of eating disorder treatment. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is commonly used to help individuals identify and change distorted thoughts and behaviors related to food, eating, and body image. Additionally, medications may be prescribed to manage eating disorders and any co-occurring mental health conditions like depression and anxiety.
Resources for eating disorder recovery
There are several resources to help those who are interested in beginning their eating disorder recovery journeys:
- National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) - Offers a helpline, online chat, and resources for individuals and families affected by eating disorders
- The Emily Program- Provides personalized treatment programs for individuals struggling with eating disorders, including outpatient and residential care
- Academy for Eating Disorders (AED)- A global professional association committed to leadership in eating disorders research, education, treatment, and prevention
- Project HEAL- A nonprofit organization that provides access to eating disorder treatment for individuals who might otherwise be unable to afford it
- Eating Disorder Hope - Offers information, resources, and support for those living with eating disorders, including treatment center directories and recovery tools
How therapy can help
Research shows that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can play a critical role in the recovery process for those with eating disorders. It can provide a safe space for individuals to explore their underlying mental health challenges, such as trauma, low self-esteem, or the impacts of societal pressures. Therapy can also help individuals develop healthier coping mechanisms, improve their relationships with food, and build a positive body image.
In addition to individual therapy, group therapy and support groups can offer a sense of community and understanding. Connecting with others with similar experiences can reduce isolation and provide encouragement and support throughout the recovery journey.
The benefits of online therapy
Online therapy often offers significant advantages, including affordability and convenience. Additionally, the flexibility of online therapy can make it easier to find a therapist who truly fits your needs, as you're not limited by geographic location. For those who may feel anxious about face-to-face sessions, the virtual format can provide a more comfortable setting, making it easier to open up and engage in meaningful healing.
Research suggests that online cognitive behavioral therapy may effectively treat eating disorders. However, in many cases, in-person medical treatment may be necessary.
Takeaway
What are some eating disorder warning signs?
A few potential eating disorder warning signs include the following:
- Disordered body image
- Noticeable weight gain or loss
- Changes in eating habits
- Social withdrawal and isolation
- Ritualistic eating habits
- Gastrointestinal complaints
How do I know if I'm developing an eating disorder?
You may be developing an eating disorder if you have a preoccupation with food, eating, weight, and body shape, or if you’re engaging in rituals or strange habits related to eating. You may also notice that you have a poor body image, a fear of eating in public, or a compulsion to only eat foods that you consider “safe.” Skipping meals and exercising excessively could also be early signs that an eating disorder is developing.
Repetitive dieting, misusing diet pills, hiding food, engaging in purging behaviors like self-induced vomiting or laxative abuse after eating to compensate for food consumed, and developing food rituals like rearranging food can all be signs of an eating disorder as well.
Am I at risk for an eating disorder?
You may be at higher risk of developing an eating disorder if the following risk factors apply to you:
- You have a poor body image
- You have a history of dieting
- You are preoccupied with your weight
- You have a close family member who has experienced an eating disorder
- You’re prone to perfectionism, impulsivity, and emotional dysregulation
Other psychological factors, like existing mental disorders, can also increase a person’s risk of developing an eating disorder.
What does disordered eating look like?
Disordered eating can be described as unhealthy behavior related to food and your body that serves the purpose of weight loss but puts you at risk of harm.
What triggers eating disorders?
Research studies suggest that there is no one cause of eating disorders, but a combination of risk factors may trigger their development. For instance, individuals who are perfectionistic and impulsive, have a poor body image, and have close relatives who have experienced eating disorders tend to be more likely to develop eating disorders themselves.
How do I know if my child has an eating disorder?
Possible signs of eating disorders in children include the following:
- Worrying about their body shape or size
- An intense fear of gaining weight or a focus on body fat, even if they are at a healthy weight
- Restricting or otherwise changing their eating habits
- Weighing themselves more frequently
- Excessively focusing on the foods they eat
- Isolating themselves
- A tendency to feel cold, even in warm temperatures
Can you self-diagnose an eating disorder?
While online questionnaires may give you a good idea of whether it could be beneficial to seek professional help, only a licensed mental health professional can officially diagnose an eating disorder.
How can you spot an eating disorder?
A few potential signs of an eating disorder include the following:
- An intense focus on eating, food, and body image
- Changes in eating habits
- Dramatic weight loss or gain
- Rituals related to eating
- Unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms
- Isolation and social withdrawal
- Physical signs like severe dehydration, feeling cold, growing fine hair on the body, and developing brittle hair
- Frequent episodes of binging on large quantities of food and then engaging in compensatory behaviors so one doesn’t gain weight
What is orthorexia?
Orthorexia can be defined as an obsession with eating foods that a person views as healthy. While eating nutritious food can be positive, those with orthorexia obsess over it to an unhealthy degree. They may only eat food from certain food groups, engage in compulsive exercise patterns, and only eat preferred foods, such as those with a certain number of fat grams or specific food ingredients. It can be challenging to recognize orthorexia, as those who live with it may view it as a lifestyle choice rather than a disorder. Treating eating disorders like orthorexia often involves mental health therapy.
How do you get rid of an eating disorder?
Eating disorders are often treated through therapy. Some individuals may also require medical treatment, especially in severe cases of anorexia nervosa with medical complications. Complete recovery can be possible with various treatment options, although getting eating disorders treated can be a challenging process for individuals with these conditions.
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