Warning Signs of Anorexia

Warning signs of anorexia include an obsession with food or rituals around the preparation and eating of food. Other warning signs of anorexia include dressing in layers to disguise weight loss or becoming secretive and isolated. Of all the warning signs of anorexia, extreme weight loss is the most obvious. If you see the warning signs of anorexia in someone, encourage this person to see a doctor.

 

Warning Signs of Anorexia: An Overview

The most obvious warning sign of anorexia is extreme weight loss. However, because of the secretive habits of many individuals with anorexia, other warning signs may be harder to see. This is why many people with anorexia have their conditions go undiagnosed for a long time.
 
Family members and friends might notice some of the warning signs of anorexia.
 

Specific Warning Signs of Anorexia

Specific warning signs of anorexia in a person can include the following:
 
  • Eating only "safe" foods, usually those low in calories and fat
  • Having odd rituals, such as cutting food into small pieces
  • Spending more time playing with food than eating it
  • Cooking meals for others without eating
  • Engaging in compulsive exercising
  • Dressing in layers to hide weight loss
  • Spending less time with family and friends, becoming more isolated, withdrawn, and secretive.
     
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD