7 Signs your child has an eating disorder and what you should do
ETimes December 03, 2025 05:39 PM
In today's fast-moving world, children experience growing pressures both at school, within social media, and from peer expectations, which sometimes might influence how they feel about their bodies and food. While picky eating is common during growth, some changes in behavior might indicate something more serious: an eating disorder. Early awareness is especially helpful for children to get the right support before the condition progresses to one that is harmful. Here are seven telltale signs parents should be aware of, in straightforward explanations, with insight into what you can do to help your child feel safe, supported, and understood.
Sudden and extreme changes in eating habits
Skipping meals, eating very small portions, or entirely avoiding certain categories of food for unexplained reasons may be indicative of deeper issues. Sometimes, children will lie about having already eaten or simply move the food around their plates without eating it. These patterns, when new, can be indicative of distress with food. Parents should approach them in a gentle way and discuss with them how they feel while having lunch and dinner rather than pressuring them to eat.
Excessively preoccupied with weight, body shape, or calories
Children who constantly talk about being “fat,” check their appearance in the mirror, or show excessive interest in calories and dieting may have body image problems. Comments such as “I need to be thinner” or “I shouldn’t eat this” may be early warning signs. Instead of saying they don’t need to lose any weight, encourage them to share why they feel this way and remind them that health, strength, and happiness matter much more than what a person looks like.
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Sudden weight loss or other noticeable changes to the body
A sudden loss of weight, pallor, unusual fatigue, or even changes such as a thinning of hair may indicate that your child is not receiving adequate nutrition. Oftentimes, physical signs follow behavioral ones, which means that by the time you identify them, your child may be in trouble. Do not immediately remark on their weight loss but instead ask them gently how they have been feeling and discuss their overall well-being.
Very often avoiding meals with the family or eating alone
Children with eating disorders may try to hide their behaviors by avoiding shared meals. They may say they’re not hungry, claim they already ate, or prefer eating alone in their room. Mealtimes are not just about food; they’re moments of connection. If your child begins to distance themselves from mealtime, invite them to family meals in a comforting, nonpressuring way. Show them that mealtimes can feel safe, warm, and bonding.
Excessive exercise or obsession with "burning calories"
Exercise is healthy, but when a child starts to work out compulsively-even when sick or tired-it may signal anxiety about weight or eating. They might say things like, "I need to burn this off" right after a meal. Avoid making them stop the activity cold turkey, and instead, discuss the concepts of balance, rest, and how one's body gets stronger with good nourishment and recovery.
Mood swings, irritability, or withdrawal from friends
When a child is struggling with an eating disorder, emotional changes often appear first. They become unusually quiet, easily irritated, or avoid activities that involve social interaction, especially around food. At times, emotional withdrawal is how a child copes with something they cannot express. Spend more time alone with them and create an environment in which they can safely open up.
Hiding food or disposing of food surreptitiously
Some children may hide snacks, dispose of food, or pretend to eat just to avoid questions. This behavior reflects fear, guilt, or confusion about food. Rather than confronting them aggressively, respond with patient curiosity. Let them know they won't be judged, and that you're there to help, not punish.
