What are five signs that someone may have an eating disorder?

Use of laxatives, diuretics or diet pills RESTRICTIVE FOOD INTAKE DISORDER (ARFID) TO AVOID RESTRICTIVE FOOD INTAKE DISORDER (ARFID) SPECIFIED binge eating is the most common eating disorder in the United States today and can cause significant weight gain. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of an eating disorder is the first step in getting help treating it. People with eating disorders often exercise compulsively, meaning they don't allow anything to stop them from completing their exercise routine, such as bad weather, illness, and special occasions. They may refuse to eat with others, not eat snacks or treats at parties, or, in some cases, make excuses not to go to events where food is present.

Jan Sherbak, a clinical psychologist and certified specialist in eating disorders, explains that diet is the main predictor of the development of an eating disorder. People with bulimia nervosa tend to have episodes of binge eating followed by purging (vomiting, use of laxatives or diuretics, fasting, excessive exercise, or a combination of both). However, bulimia can be successfully treated by cognitive-behavioral therapy, certain anti-seizure medications, antidepressants, or combinations of these therapies. Eating disorders can be treated, and with the right treatment and support, most people with an eating disorder can learn healthy eating habits and get their lives back on track.

Although these fears exist, it is important to understand that eating disorders are not fads, phases, or eccentricities that will resolve on their own. Despite the myths surrounding eating disorders, they can affect people of all ages, genders, races, ethnicities, and body shapes. People with bulimia nervosa have episodes of eating large amounts of food (called binge eating) followed by purging (vomiting or laxative use), fasting, or excessive exercise to compensate for overeating. Often, people with bulimia can maintain a seemingly healthy weight, and people with binge eating disorder can diet often without losing weight.

One of the most notable physical signs of an eating disorder is a fluctuation in weight, either up or down. You may notice that your loved one only uses specific utensils when he eats, only eats at certain times, or may even refuse to eat anything he hasn't prepared himself. However, with treatment, most people with anorexia will regain the weight they lost, and the physical problems they developed as a result of anorexia will improve.