When a loved one starts acting differently around food, we hope it is temporary, “just a phase.” It could be a new diet or interest or simply a stressful week. Sometimes, however, what looks like a small change can be the first sign of something deeper and much more serious.
Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions. They often develop quietly and over time, which makes some of the earliest signs easy to overlook or explain away.
National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) studies have found that early intervention significantly improves treatment outcomes and reduces the occurrence of medical complications due to eating disorders.
Early Signs of Eating Disorders
Not every eating disorder is alike. Some people lose or gain weight, though there are many instances where there are no noticeable weight changes. Some people talk obsessively about food, while others completely hide or mask their behaviors. However, there are some common signs, both physical and emotional, that may suggest the early stages of disordered eating:
Changes in Eating Habits
- Skipping meals
- Suddenly participating in an extreme or restrictive diet
- New avoidance of certain food groups (carbs, fats, etc.)
- Eating in secret or quickly disappearing after meals
- Calling foods “good” or “bad” in increasingly rigid ways
Being Preoccupied with Food, Weight, or Appearance
- Obsessively counting calories, macros, steps, or with checking nutrition labels
- Talking frequently about body size, weight, or appearance
- Expressing guilt or shame about eating
- Avoiding social situations where food is served
Physical and Emotional Red Flags
- Noticeable weight changes (up or down)
- Fatigue, dizziness, or fainting
- Stomach issues without a clear cause
- Increased anxiety, depression, or irritability
- Withdrawal from friends, family, or activities once enjoyed
Social Media & Disordered Eating
While social media apps can be valuable for building connections, they often amplify negative perceptions of body image and food. Frequently viewing content like “What I Eat in a Day,” before-and-after transformations, and heavily filtered selfies can lead to harmful comparisons and increased pressure on individuals.
If you notice someone becoming fixated on curated body images, spending significant time following diet trends, or using social media to reinforce food rules or body dissatisfaction, it may be more than just a scrolling habit.
Being mindful of someone’s digital environment can provide important clues to their relationship with food and their body.
Why “It’s Just a Phase” Can Be Harmful
It’s understandable to hope your loved one is really just “going through a phase” or has picked up a new interest in health or beauty. No one wants to imagine a loved one is facing something as serious as an eating disorder. However, not addressing early warning signs could delay treatment and lead to lasting difficulties.
The National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD) has found that eating disorders have the highest mortality rate of any mental health condition. This includes the related medical complications of eating disorders as well as the higher risk of suicide. Recognizing the signs early and responding with care and concern can save a life.
Even if the signs seem small or inconsistent, taking them seriously sends a powerful message: “I see you, and I care enough to say something.”
What to Do If You Suspect an Eating Disorder
If you suspect that you or someone you love may be showing early signs of an eating disorder, do not wait for a crisis to act. Here are a few compassionate and practical steps you can take:
Start a gentle conversation.
Focus on how the person feels, not just how they eat or look. Use “I” statements like, “I’ve noticed you’ve been more withdrawn lately, and I’m concerned.” Keep the conversation supportive, and do not make accusations.
Reach out to a professional.
Primary care providers, therapists, or dietitians with experience in eating disorders can help evaluate what’s going on. Early support from experts can reduce the severity and duration of the illness.
Contact a trusted provider like Eating Disorder Treatment Centers (EDTC).
Our team specializes in compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each individual’s needs. Whether you’re unsure what’s going on or know it’s time for help, our team of professionals at EDTC can help you.
Avoid commenting on their appearance.
Even with the best intentions, complimenting a person’s weight loss or body changes might reinforce harmful patterns. Instead, focus on their emotional well-being and your concern for their health and happiness.
Educate yourself.
Understanding the basics of eating disorders can empower you to respond with empathy and knowledge. Resources from our blog and national organizations such as NEDA, ANAD, and NIMH offer helpful insights.
Getting Help for an Eating Disorder
If something feels wrong or off with your loved one, trust your instincts. Early signs of eating disorders often appear as quirks or new habits. It takes courage to speak up, but it could be the first step toward healing for you or someone you care deeply about.
If you’re noticing changes that concern you—even if you’re not sure what they mean—reaching out is a powerful first step. At EDTC, we’re here to help you navigate the uncertainty with compassion, expertise, and understanding.
Whether you need guidance starting a conversation with someone you love, or support understanding treatment options, our team is ready to walk alongside you. From that first call through the entire recovery journey, you don’t have to carry this alone.