Did you know about 30 million Americans struggle with an eating disorder?
If you suspect someone in your life is struggling with this, you should be aware of the signs of an eating disorder. This guide will discuss some of the issues to look for. Keep reading to learn what they are.
1. Changes in Weight
One of the most common physical signs of an eating disorder is drastic weight change. It’s very possible to achieve healthy weight change, but quick changes indicate a bigger problem.
Becoming underweight in the span of a few months could be a sign of anorexia. Being overweight while showing signs of binge eating and purging are commonly associated with bulimia.
If you notice some of these changes in yourself or a loved one, you should consider reaching out to professionals for help.
2. Changing Eating Habits
Issues with food will present themselves first when someone begins to develop an eating disorder. You might notice stricter eating patterns in your loved one’s life. They can start by only eating at specific times of the day.
You might notice them moving their food around their plate and not finishing their meals. Your loved one might insist on eating the same types of food at every meal. Starting a new diet can be a sign of disordered eating.
3. Obsession With Body Image
A negative body image might lead to disordered eating too. You might notice that your loved one starts spending more time getting ready in the mornings. They might start wearing more makeup because they feel like they have a lot of imperfections to hide.
Your loved one might start making a lot more negative comments about their appearance. They might use clothing to try to hide their body. Everyone has days they don’t feel their best, but an obsession with body image can lead someone to develop an eating disorder.
4. Mood Swings
Some of the emotional signs of having an eating disorder include rapidly changing moods. Everyone feels sad or irritated from time to time, but extreme emotional changes can indicate a bigger issue.
If your loved one starts acting more anxious or angry around mealtimes, they might be dealing with an eating disorder and stressing about their food choices.
5. Excessive Exercising
Having an active lifestyle is an important part of leading a healthy life. Becoming obsessive with your fitness routine can indicate you’re developing disordered eating.
If you or a loved one starts spending hours and hours of your day in a gym, you might want to take a step back. Obsessing over burning calories or feeling overly upset when you can’t make it to the gym are red flags.
Signs of an Eating Disorder You Should Know
Changing eating habits and obsession with body image are some of the signs of an eating disorder you should be informed about. If you or a loved one are struggling with an eating disorder consider asking for professional help.
Check out some of our other health blogs to learn more about this issue.
