Contrary to popular belief, there are actually different types of eating disorders and symptoms that impact people of all shapes and sizes. The Mayo Clinic defines each disorder and their characteristics: anorexia is categorized by extreme weight loss, food restriction, and a fear of gaining weight. Bulimia is when a person binges food and then purges it by throwing up immediately, often experiencing guilt and shame. Binge-eating is when a person eats a large amount of food in a short amount of time past the feeling of being full, and feels out of control when it comes to food. All three are life-threatening disorders if not treated properly.

Eating disorders can be prevented if the symptoms can be recognized and treated early on. The National Eating Disorders Association identified signs of a possible eating disorder — all include some version of extremism surrounding food, exercise, body image, and mood swings. A commonly understood sign of eating disorders is purging immediately after meals, but other signs can be just as telling. Extreme dieting is a big indicator, where a person highly restricts their food intake to an unhealthy amount. Extremely frequent exercise and high anxiety when one is unable to exercise is another sign. People who express constant distaste for their body can be at risk for an eating disorder, especially when it is accompanied with intense meal preparation and restricting/binging their meals. These signs can indicate that your loved one needs help.