Eating disorders are about more than just food—they’re a complex set of mental health disorders that focus on food intake, body image, and control. They’re also more common than we think. Studies estimate that at least 28 million Americans will struggle with an eating disorder at some point in their lives.

Early intervention is the key to successfully overcoming an eating disorder, but this is easier said than done. They often remain hidden, as those suffering from eating disorders may go to great lengths to conceal their struggles. Here are a few signs of some common eating disorders and steps you can take to help.

Types of eating disorders

Anorexia nervosa: Anorexia, one of the most well-known eating disorders, is characterized by extreme dieting and restrictive eating patterns. However, a low body weight isn’t the only sign. Those who are overweight or at a “healthy” size can also suffer from anorexia.

Bulimia nervosa: Bulimia is defined as patterns of bingeing and purging. Bingeing refers to overconsumption of food (often foods the person would usually avoid) until the person is uncomfortably full. To “compensate” for this food intake, a person with bulimia purges afterward. Purging can take a few forms; vomiting, laxatives, fasting, or excessive exercise are common.

Other disorders recognized by the DSM-5 are binge eating disorder, rumination disorder, pica, avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder, and purging disorder. Some people may also show symptoms that don’t completely match a standard eating disorder definition. Here are several of the most common signs of many eating disorders.

Drastic weight fluctuations

One of the most obvious signs of an eating disorder is significant and rapid weight fluctuations (both up and down). People with anorexia nervosa may show severe weight loss, while those with bulimia nervosa may experience weight fluctuations due to the disordered cycle of binging and purging. An excessive focus on weight and an intense fear of gaining weight are common characteristics associated with eating disorders.

Obsession with food and eating

People with eating disorders often have an overwhelming preoccupation with food, calories, and dieting. They might follow restrictive diets, meticulously count calories, and develop rigid eating rituals. This focus on food can become all-consuming.

Negative, distorted body image

Many people suffering from eating disorders may perceive themselves as overweight regardless of their actual weight or size. This shows up in several behaviors:

excessive mirror checking
repeatedly weighing themselves
talking badly about their appearance
wearing concealing clothing

Unhealthy eating habits

Irregular eating patterns, like skipping meals or avoiding certain food groups, are common signs of eating disorders. Some people might severely restrict their food intake, leading to nutrient deficiencies and significant health problems. Others turn to episodes of binge eating, eating large quantities of food within a short period, followed by guilt, shame, and sometimes purging behaviors.

Excessive exercise

Exercise, while normally a good thing, can become an unhealthy obsession for people living with eating disorders. They may feel compelled to engage in excessive physical activity, often driven by a desire to burn calories or to achieve a particular body shape. This compulsive exercise can lead to physical injuries, especially when coupled with malnutrition.

Health issues

Eating disorders can take an enormous toll on the body. Physical symptoms of an eating disorder may include:

fatigue
dizziness
hair loss
brittle nails
low blood pressure
irregular menstrual cycles
gastrointestinal problems
electrolyte imbalances
poor wound healing

Getting help

Recognizing the signs of an eating disorder is crucial for early intervention and effective treatment. If you or someone you know has these symptoms, it’s important to seek help from a doctor and therapist. Remember, eating disorders are complex mental health conditions that require compassion, understanding, and a tailored approach for recovery.

To learn more about how eating disorder therapy can help those suffering from eating disorders, please reach out to us.

What Are Signs Of Eating Disorders