7 Common Eating Disorder Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

Eating disorders are common and can have serious implications on both physical and mental health. According to the National Eating Disorder Association, about 20 million women and 10 million men in the United States will develop an eating disorder at some point in their lives. Despite the high prevalence, many people with eating disorders are often reluctant to seek help due to the stigma associated with them.

Here are seven common eating disorder symptoms you shouldn’t ignore:

1. Obsession with body weight and shape

Individuals with eating disorders often have an intense obsession with their weight and shape, leading to significant distress if they gain weight even if objectively, they are still within a healthy weight range. They may also engage in frequent weighing and measuring of their bodies, and spend an excessive amount of time looking at themselves in the mirror.

2. Restrictive eating patterns

Some people with eating disorders have restrictive eating patterns, which may include avoiding certain food groups, severely limiting calorie intake, or skipping meals altogether. While self-restriction may start as a way to lose weight or improve health, it can quickly spiral out of control and become a life-threatening condition.

3. Binge eating

Binge eating is when a person consumes large amounts of food in a short period of time, often in secret. They may feel like they can’t control their eating behavior and experience feelings of guilt, shame, and disgust afterward.

4. Purging behaviors

Purging behaviors, such as induced vomiting, laxative use, or excessive exercise, are commonly associated with bulimia nervosa. People with bulimia may engage in purging behaviors to compensate for binge eating episodes and may even experience weight fluctuations.

5. Preoccupation with food

Individuals with eating disorders may spend a lot of time thinking about food, planning meals, and counting calories. They may also avoid social situations that involve food or become anxious when they are not in control of the food choices.

6. Negative body image

Body image concerns are common in individuals with eating disorders, regardless of their weight or body size. They may perceive their bodies to be larger than they really are, and often engage in comparison behaviors with others who they perceive as thinner or more attractive.

7. Changes in mood and behavior

Eating disorders can have significant impacts on mental health. Individuals may experience mood changes such as irritability, anxiety, and depression. They may also withdraw from social activities and experience a decrease in energy and motivation.

In summary, recognizing the signs and symptoms of eating disorders is crucial for early intervention and treatment. If you or someone you know is struggling with any of these symptoms, it is important to seek help from a healthcare professional. Recovery is possible and with proper support, individuals can learn to develop a healthy relationship with food and their bodies.