Anorexia nervosa, popularly known as anorexia, is a serious mental health condition that affects both males and females worldwide.

It is a type of eating disorder where individuals restrict their food intake significantly, leading to dramatic weight loss and potential health problems.

There are two types of anorexia: restrictive anorexia and binge-eating/purging anorexia. In restrictive anorexia, individuals starve themselves to lose weight.

On the other hand, individuals with binge-eating/purging anorexia eat very little, with occasional binge eating and purging episodes (self-induced vomiting or using laxatives).

The symptoms of anorexia nervosa can be challenging to detect, especially in the early stages. However, some actions can indicate that an individual has nervous anorexia.

1. Obsessing Over Food and Calories

People with anorexia nervosa often obsess over food and calorie intake. They count calories in almost every food item and avoid consuming high-calorie meals. They also tightly regulate portion sizes and eat as little as possible.

2. Fear of Weight Gain

The fear of weight gain is perhaps one of the most significant contributors to anorexia nervosa. People with this condition constantly fret about gaining weight. They may weigh themselves frequently and become agitated if they notice any weight gain.

They may also avoid weighing themselves for fear of the number they will see on the scale.

3. Changes in Eating Habits and Patterns

Anorexia nervosa can manifest itself through significant changes in an individual’s eating patterns. They may skip meals, avoid eating in front of others, or refuse to eat altogether.

Moreover, they may take very small portions of food and eat slowly, often without taking a break.

4. Ritualistic Eating Behaviors

Some individuals with anorexia nervosa develop ritualistic eating behaviors. They may cut their food into small pieces, eat only at specific times of the day, or insist on eating only particular foods.

Also, some individuals may develop a preference for specific types of food over others and avoid the ones they dislike.

5. Increased Physical Activity

Increased physical activity is another action that can indicate nervous anorexia. People with this condition may engage in extreme forms of exercise to burn off calories they have consumed.

They may also become agitated if they miss a workout session due to sickness, injury, or other factors.

6. Poor Body Image

People with anorexia nervosa often have a distorted body image. They view their body as overweight, even if they are underweight. They may feel uncomfortable or ashamed of their body size, leading to social withdrawal and anxiety.

Anorexia nervosa often leads to social withdrawal. People with this condition may avoid social events that include food or social gatherings that may draw attention to their eating patterns or body size.

As a result, they may become isolated, anxious, and discouraged.

8. Irregular Menstrual Periods

Irregular menstrual periods can be a sign of nervous anorexia. It is because menstrual cycles rely on a healthy balance of hormones, which can be disrupted by severe calorie restriction and weight loss.

Women with anorexia nervosa may have missed several menstrual cycles, making it difficult for them to conceive in the future.

9. Hair and Skin Problems

People with anorexia nervosa may experience hair and skin problems. Their hair may become brittle and fall out, or they may develop fine, downy hair on their arms and legs.

Also, their skin may become dry, discolored, and appear to be dull or lose its elasticity.

10. Physical Health Problems

Severe anorexia nervosa can lead to several physical complications, such as osteoporosis, damaged organs, electrolyte imbalances, and cardiac abnormalities.

People with nervous anorexia may also feel cold all the time, experience dizziness, fatigue, and low blood pressure.

It is important to note that not all actions are present in every case of nervous anorexia. Some individuals may show only one or a few while others show all of them.