Tips to identify signs of eating disorders

It's estimated that one-third of Americans made a New Year's resolution to lose weight this year. Though these dieting individuals may have healthy intentions, they could be putting themselves at risk for an eating disorder, warns Eating Recovery Center (www.eatingrecoverycenter.com), a licensed and Joint Commission accredited behavioral hospital providing comprehensive treatment and sustainable recovery for eating disorders.

"For individuals with a genetic predisposition for an eating disorder, a diet can quickly spiral out of control and trigger disordered eating," said Kenneth L. Weiner, MD, CEDS, co-founder and medical director of Eating Recovery Center. "It's important for families to be aware of eating disorder warning signs and step in when they believe their loved one has a problem."

The following 10 signs may indicate that a dieting loved one is developing an eating disorder:

1. Dramatic weight loss

2. Refusal to eat certain foods

3. Evidence of binge-eating or purging behaviors

4. Frequent comments about feeling "fat" or overweight despite weight loss

5. Anxiety about gaining weight or being "fat"

6. Denial of hunger

7. Development of food rituals, such as eating foods in a certain order or rearranging food on a plate

8. Withdrawal from usual friends and activities

9. Excessive, rigid exercise regimen despite weather, fatigue, illness or injury

10. Behaviors and attitudes indicating that weight loss, dieting or control of food are primary concerns

"If your loved one's diet takes a turn for the worse, discuss your concerns openly and honestly in a caring, supportive way," said Weiner. "Encourage your friend or family member to explore these concerns with a counselor, doctor, nutritionist or other qualified professional who is knowledgeable about eating disorders."