Signs of disordered eating
Disordered eating encompasses a variety of unhealthy eating behaviors that may not meet the diagnostic criteria for a full-fledged eating disorder but can still be harmful. Here are some common signs of disordered eating:
1. Chronic Dieting
Consistently following restrictive diets or engaging in extreme food rules (e.g., eliminating entire food groups) in an attempt to control weight, even when not medically necessary.
2. Skipping Meals or Restrictive Eating
Frequently skipping meals or eating very little food without valid health reasons. Individuals may avoid meals altogether or limit portion sizes drastically in an attempt to control weight or body shape.
3. Obsession with Food, Weight, and Calories
A preoccupation with counting calories, measuring portion sizes, or focusing on food and body weight throughout the day. Individuals may also exhibit an intense fear of gaining weight.
4. Frequent Weight Fluctuations
Noticeable cycles of weight loss and gain (often referred to as "yo-yo dieting") due to alternating periods of restrictive dieting and overeating.
5. Emotional Eating
Using food as a way to cope with emotions such as stress, anxiety, or boredom. This can involve eating large amounts of food when not physically hungry, followed by feelings of guilt or shame.
6. Excessive Exercise
Exercising excessively to "make up" for calories consumed or as a form of punishment for eating. This behavior is typically driven by anxiety around weight gain.
7. Rigid Eating Rituals
Engaging in strict eating rituals, such as cutting food into very small pieces, eating food in a specific order, or adhering to precise rules about what and when to eat.
8. Feelings of Guilt or Shame About Food
Experiencing guilt or shame after eating certain foods, particularly those viewed as "bad" or "unhealthy." These emotions can lead to compensatory behaviors like restricting food the following day.
9. Avoidance of Social Situations Involving Food
Avoiding social events or gatherings where food is present due to anxiety or fear about eating in front of others, being judged, or not being able to control food choices.
