Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions that affect millions of people around the world. They involve a range of complex emotions, attitudes, and behaviors towards food and body image.

While the specific causes of eating disorders are not fully understood, there are certain telltale signs that can be helpful in identifying if someone is struggling with an eating disorder.

1. Drastic weight changes

One of the most common signs of an eating disorder is a significant change in weight. This can be either weight loss or weight gain, depending on the type of eating disorder.

Individuals with anorexia nervosa often experience extreme weight loss, while those with binge eating disorder may experience weight gain due to frequent episodes of binging.

2. Obsession with food and dieting

People with eating disorders often develop an unhealthy obsession with food and dieting. They may constantly talk about calories, meal plans, or exercise routines.

They may also exhibit rigid and restrictive eating patterns, such as avoiding entire food groups or severely limiting calorie intake.

3. Distorted body image

Individuals with eating disorders often have a distorted perception of their own body image. They may see themselves as overweight or out of shape, even when they are underweight or have a healthy body weight.

This distorted body image can contribute to harmful behaviors like excessive exercise or extreme dietary restrictions.

People with eating disorders may avoid social situations that involve food. They may make excuses to avoid eating in public or decline invitations to events where food will be served.

This behavior is often driven by feelings of shame, guilt, or anxiety about eating in front of others.

5. Obsession with body shape and size

An obsession with body shape and size is another common sign of an eating disorder. Individuals may constantly compare themselves to others and engage in excessive body-checking behaviors.

They may also have a preoccupation with thinness or a desire to achieve a specific body shape or size.

6. Changes in eating habits

Eating disorders can cause significant changes in an individual’s eating habits.

These changes may include skipping meals, consuming large quantities of food in a short period (bingeing), purging after meals (through vomiting or misuse of laxatives), or following strict rituals or rules around eating.

7. Mood swings and irritability

People with eating disorders often experience mood swings and irritability due to the physical and emotional stress they put their bodies through. They may become easily agitated, withdrawn, or emotionally unstable.

These mood changes can also be exacerbated by feelings of guilt or shame related to their eating disorder behaviors.

8. Physical symptoms

Eating disorders can have a range of physical symptoms. Some common physical signs include dizziness, fainting, fatigue, trouble concentrating, thinning hair, dry skin, and the development of fine hair on the body.

Individuals may also experience digestive problems, such as bloating, constipation, or stomach cramps.

9. Excessive exercise

Compulsive or excessive exercise is often associated with certain eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa.

Individuals may feel compelled to engage in extensive exercise routines to burn off calories or maintain a certain body weight or shape. They may prioritize exercise over other activities or social engagements.

10. Withdrawal from loved ones

Individuals with eating disorders may withdraw from loved ones or isolate themselves socially. They may feel embarrassed or ashamed of their eating behaviors and body image, leading them to distance themselves from friends and family.

This withdrawal can further exacerbate feelings of loneliness and contribute to the cycle of the eating disorder.