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Warning Signs of an Eating Disorder?

January 17, 2007

Anyone can develop an eating disorder. However, some groups of people are more at risk than others.

Females are the most susceptible. In fact, approximately 90 to 95 percent of all people with anorexia or bulimia are women. However, eating disorders are being increasingly identified in males. Adolescents are also at particular risk and, as well as in adults and even children as young as eight, nine and 10 years old.

Eating disorders produce warning signs. People with anorexia may:

Eat tiny portions, refuse to eat and deny they are hungry.
Show abnormal weight loss — as much as 15 percent or more of their body weight.
Be hyperactive, depressed, moody or insecure.
Exercise excessively and compulsively.

People with bulimia may:

Eat in private.
Disappear after eating.
Show great fluctuations in weight.
Binge eat and then purge.

If you or someone you know shows any combination of these symptoms, contact a registered dietitian.

Produced by ADA’s Public Relations Team

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