In today’s day and age intense dieting and eating disorders are becoming more and more common and are beginning to affect much younger generations. We live in a culture that is obsessed with new diet and fitness trends, and we are constantly surrounded by it and reminded of our figures and how we should be perfecting them. If you have noticed that you have a negative relationship with food, you may be wondering whether you are possibly suffering from an eating disorder. Eating disorders can take over your life, and considering that food is a necessary part of our day-to-day activities, it’s no wonder that living with one can be so life-altering. Although only a professional can make a proper diagnosis, you may want to look out for these prominent signs of having an eating disorder…
#1 Constant concern with one’s weight, body, and appearance
If you have found yourself constantly thinking about your weight, body, and appearance, this may be an onset symptom of an eating disorder. If you begin feeling conscious about how others are seeing you out in public, or feel paranoid that people are staring or judging you, these are all symptoms of an eating disorder. Pay attention to how often you are thinking about your weight. Is it every time you get dressed, every time someone looks at you, every time you eat? Pay attention, as this continuous concern is not normal or healthy and may indicate an eating disorder.
#2 Obsession with counting calories
If you find yourself obsessively concerned with what goes into your mouth, or counting the calories of every food item, maybe even down to the sugar-free gum you’re chewing, this is a definite indication of an eating disorder. Obsessive counting of every calorie that goes into your body is not normal and could be a potential sign of something wrong.
#3 Negative emotions associated with food and eating
If you find that you feel negative emotions towards food and eating, or that you feel negative emotions during or after eating, these are prominent signs of an eating disorder. It is very common for people who suffer from an eating disorder to feel guilty after eating, and especially after any sort of indulgence. Food is a necessary entity to survive, and proper nutrition is all about balance.
#4 Odd changes in eating practices
If you find yourself eating at odd times, avoiding meals, binge eating large amounts of food, hiding food, etc., these are abnormal eating practices and may be signs of an eating disorder.
#5 Compulsive exercising
If you find yourself at the gym for hours at a time or multiple times a day, obsessing over the number of calories you are burning, this is not a good sign. Exercise, just like food intake, is all about balance.
If you have found yourself suffering from any of the above symptoms, it is possible that you may have an eating disorder. Eating disorders can be hard to beat, especially all on your own. If you think you may have one, you should seek help from a Dallas eating disorder therapist. Eating disorders can largely disrupt your life and it is important to seek the help you need as early as you can if you feel you may be suffering from one. Here at Lifeworks, we are a Dallas counseling center with a team of experts that will implement all the care and knowledge they have in helping you get your life back on track. Contact us today and let us help you lead a happier and healthier life.
