When I first developed aneating disorder, I didnt realize that I had one.
I was experiencing a bad flare-up of my fibromyalgia and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
I got sick each time I ate, and developed a fear of food in the process.
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I eventually decided to clean up my diet, trying to eliminate all foods that triggered symptoms.
I was also irritable, rigid about my routine, and losing weight rapidly.
However, my eating was still disordered for years.
The truth is,eating disorderscan be tricky to recognize and diagnose.
An honest, compassionate conversation could be the spark that your friend needs to get professional help.
One of the best things you might do is non-judgmentally observe your loved one’s behavior.
Dont just drop it.
Some of the most noticeable signs of aneating disorderare changes to a persons regular routine.
There is a close link between eating disorders, and anxiety and depression, says Mysko.
You will notice a disruption in relationships and social engagement first.
Youll generally feel a new disconnect with them.
This may include vinegar, lemon juice, hot sauce, salsa, and pepper.
Its tough in this day and age to separate healthy habit from obsession.
However, Riley has coined the term steporexia to explain someone who is obsessed with fitness-related health.
The profile of this eating disorder is typically bang out-A, overachieving, and perfectionistic.
Again, simply enjoying tracking workouts doesn’t mean a friend has an eating disorder.
Its when it becomes an obsessionand part of a larger problem with compulsive orexcessive exercisethat it warrants concern.
Take note if your friend suddenly becomes unusually meticulous about her eating routine.
You might also notice this person cutting up all food into tiny pieces, or ripping it into parts.
These are part of the compulsive nature of many eating disorders.
Perhaps only avocado, nuts, and certain oils, says Riley.
(For the record,fatsare a healthyand, in fact, necessarypart of a balanced diet.)
Be alert for someone who shows other symptoms ofanorexiaor orthorexia after beginning a fad diet.
Claiming to be vegan or gluten-free can be a smoke screen for disordered eating habits.
In addition, a newfound obsession with cooking shows or preparing food may also be concerning.
Sometimes the person wants to cook or bake for everyone, but never enjoys their own handiwork.
The brain chemistry changes in men and women with restrictive eating disorders.
Also, they want to burn extra calories, she says.
Many are afraid that if they sit, theyll gain weight.
Sometimes they arent medically overweight, but still struggling, says Mysko.
Binge eaters may also be found with lots of decadent foods on hand in mass quantities.
Perhaps its a dozen donuts or cupcakes, or four flavors of ice cream.
Approach your friend privately first, and focus on the behavioral changes that concern you; avoid discussing weight.
Ive talked to a few of my friends about eating disorders.
This seems to make it safer for them to open up, too.
Don’t make a run at play therapist yourself.
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