Although these disorders can be tough to spot, there can also be some warning signs that hint at the existence of a problem, such as:
- Constant dieting - or a preoccupation with counting calories or avoiding certain types of foods entirely
- Categorizing foods as ‘good or bad’
- Never eating in public
- Eating very slowly – playing with food
- Always claiming to ‘not be hungry’, or frequently claiming food allergies as an excuse for not eating
- Obsessive exercise
- Hiding food (to avoid eating, or for later consumption)
- Developing strict rituals about eating
- Developing a preoccupation with buying and preparing food, but not eating it
- Finding hidden evidence of binges, such as hidden food wrappers
- The use of laxatives or diet pills
- Being very focused on appearance and body shape
- Wearing very baggy clothes to hide body shape
- Seeming very afraid of weight gain
Some physical signs of eating disorders include:
- Sudden weight loss or a very thin appearance
- The growth of soft hair on the face and body
- Fainting or dizziness
- The loss of menstruation
- Constipation and abdominal pain
- Feeling cold frequently
- Low blood pressure and/or heart beat irregularities
- Dehydration
- Dental problems (from bulimia)
- Scarred knuckles (bulimia)
- Swollen salivary glands (chipmunk cheeks) (from frequent vomiting)
- Bowel problems
- Others1
Men with Eating Disorders
Although we stereotypically think of only women as victims of eating disorders, more than a million American men also suffer from these disorders.
Men with eating disorders typically have a distorted body image and may either seek to lose weight or to gain muscle through unhealthy means.
Eating Disorder Treatments
Eating disorder treatment works well to help people regain a healthy weight.
Treatment is typically multidisciplinary and tailored to the needs of the individual. Treatment can combine elements such as:
- Psychotherapy or cognitive behavioral therapy
- Group therapy and involvement in support groups
- Nutritional counseling and education
- Treatment for co-occurring mental or physical health problems
People who are in physical danger due to their weight loss may need a period of hospitalization, to address nutritional needs and any other physical health complaints.
page last update Aug 13, 2010
