Eating disorders frequently emerge during adolescence but often, the symptoms arent what parents might expect.
Unfortunately, many eating disorders go undetected and untreated because parents dontrecognize the warning signs.
Learning how to spot the subtle warning signs of an eating disorder could help you catch a problem early.
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Early intervention is key to addressing an eating disorder effectively.
If your teen says shes fat or she complains about being ugly, take note.
Her harsh self-criticism could lead to an eating disorder.
Crash dieting and fasting can be a precursor to an eating disorder.
Excessive Exercise
Sometimes teens give a shot to compensate for their food intake with excessive exercise.
Spending hours each day engaging in a cardiovascular activity or weight lifting can become an unhealthy obsession.
Picky Eating
Disordered eating often starts with picky eating habits.
Disappears After Meals
A teen with bulimia may make a fast exit after meals.
Wears Baggy Clothes
To disguise weight loss, a teen may wear clothes that are several sizes too big.
Empty boxes or wrappers or large quantities of food may be a sign of binge eating.
Avoids Eating in Public
Its common for teens with eating disorders to have a phobia about eating in public.
They may refuse to eat in restaurants, cafeterias, or at family gatherings.
Feels Cold All the Time
Teens with little body fat are likely to be cold all the time.
Dry Skin
Skin problems are common in teens with eating disorders.
Dehydration often accompanies bulimia and anorexia.
Swollen Cheeks
Purging causes swollen salivary glands, which causes the cheeks to look puffy.
Swollen cheeks may happen at any stage of an eating disorder.
Be on the lookout if your teen obsesses over ingredients, as behavior often gets more restrictive over time.
A complete physical exam will be an important part of the assessment.
