Eating disorders are very complex mental health conditions that can have significant consequences on both physical and emotional well-being. Recognizing the signs of an eating disorder is crucial for early intervention.
Approximately 10 million men and 20 million women in the United States will suffer from an eating disorder in their lifetime. Eating disorders are among the most deadly of any mental health disorder, second only to opioid overdose. In fact one person dies from an eating disorder every 52 minutes.
The signs of an eating disorder can be complex. In fact, individuals struggling with an eating disorder often exhibit a range of behaviors and attitudes towards food, body image, and weight. Unfortunately, only 30% of the estimated number of people with an eating disorder will seek treatment. Factors such as financial barriers, stigma, misconceptions, and the lack of access are why such a small percentage of people seek help.
Knowing the signs of an eating disorder is essential for promoting awareness and understanding, and getting friends and loved ones the help that they need.
What is an Eating Disorder?
Eating disorders are serious but treatable mental and physical illnesses. They are characterized by abnormal eating habits that significantly impact an individual’s physical health, psychological well-being, and overall quality of life. These disorders manifest is various forms. They can also affect anyone regardless of gender, age, race, ethnicity, religious, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, or body weight and shape.
When most people hear the term “eating disorder,” they think of a malnourished person suffering from anorexia nervosa. However eating disorders do not discriminate between age, weight, shape and size. Furthermore, they often stem from a complex interaction of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors.
In addition to anorexia, there are other eating disorders that are just as prevalent and equally as damaging. These include bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, avoidant restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), orthorexia, and compulsive exercising.
If you are interested in learning more about eating disorders and disordered eating, check out our more in depth article at this link.
What are the classic signs of an eating disorder?
Despite the stereotypes, eating disorders impact people of all genders, races, social classes and ages. Meanwhile, people often do not know that they have an eating disorder, so they may not know to mention it to their doctor.
Research indicates that less than 6% of people with eating disorders are medically diagnosed as “underweight.” It’s therefore understandable that eating disorders often go undiagnosed. This is why it’s so important to know the true signs of an eating disorder, since a person suffering from one may not look the way you expect.
If you think you or a loved one could be suffering from an eating disorder, review the list of common symptoms and signs below.
Physical:
- Noticeable fluctuations in weight, both up and down
- Menstrual irregularities
- Dizziness, especially upon standing
- Feeling cold all the time
- Dry skin and hair, and brittle nails
- Fine hair on body (lanugo)
- Muscle weakness
Emotional/Behavioral:
- Preoccupation with weight, food, calories, carbohydrates, fat grams, and dieting
- Refusal to eat certain foods, progressing to restrictions against whole categories of food (e.g., no carbohydrates, no sugar etc.)
- Appears uncomfortable eating around others
- Skipping meals or restricting food
- Frequent dieting
- Frequent checking in the mirror for perceived flaws in appearance
- Secret recurrent episodes of binge eating
- Purge behavior (bathroom use after food consumption)
- Expresses need to “burn off calories” after meals
Some unexpected signs of an eating disorder
Eating Disorders can manifest in a variety of unexpected ways that you may not immediately associate with disordered eating. A very common but unexpected sign is the development of excessive perfectionism. This is when individuals set unrealistically high standards for themselves in various aspects, beyond appearance or weight.
Another unexpected indicator is social withdrawal or isolation. Individuals with eating disorders may distance themselves to conceal their behaviors or cope with their feelings of shame. Social isolation can also occur with activities that are involved with food. That’s because these situations can trigger anxiety, guilt, or feelings of inadequacy that relate to eating habits or body image.
Additionally, extreme mood swings can be an unexpected sign of an eating disorder. The relationship between varying moods and eating disorders is complex and intertwined with the physiological consequences of disordered behaviors. Nutritional imbalances, hormonal fluctuations, co-occurring mental health issues, the need for control, and psychological strain can all occur with an eating disorder. Meanwhile, these factors can also contribute to mood swings and emotional instability
What to do if you suspect an eating disorder
If you suspect that someone may be struggling with an eating disorder, it is important to approach the situation with sensitivity and empathy. Avoid commenting on a person’s appearance or food choices, as this can increase feelings of guilt and shame.
Encourage the individual to seek out professional help from a health care provider, therapist, and dietitian who specializes in eating disorders. Addressing an eating disorder requires a multidisciplinary approach, with a team of individuals who are supportive and encouraging. Also offer assistance in finding resources and attending appointments, if they are willing.
Open communication is key. Expressing your concerns in a non-judgmental and supportive manner can go a long way. Be patient and understanding, as many individuals may be defensive or resistant to acknowledging the issue. Ultimately, showing compassion and understanding can play a crucial role in helping a loved one navigate the challenging journey towards recovery.
How to get help and support
If some of these signs and symptoms of an eating disorder apply to you or someone you love, please seek out a medical professional who can help. Check out our Nourish Program, which was specifically designed to help patients with eating disorders. The Registered Dietitian Nutritionists who are part of the Nourish team can partner and collaborate with your physician, therapist, and other health care providers to get you the help you need.
