How to Spot Early Signs of Disordered Eating in Teens

Adolescence is a time of enormous growth physically, emotionally, and socially. As a parent or caregiver, it can be hard to know what’s "normal" teen behavior and what might signal something deeper, like disordered eating. Teens may suddenly change their eating habits, become more private, or develop strong opinions about food, and while some of that is developmentally appropriate, there are red flags to pay attention to.

Disordered eating can take many forms and often begins quietly. It’s not always about weight loss or a dramatic change in appearance. In fact, many early signs fly under the radar because they can be mistaken for health-conscious behavior or mood swings. But early intervention is key, and noticing the signs can make a meaningful difference in your teen’s well-being.

Early Signs to Watch For

• Preoccupation with Food, Weight, or Body Image
  Your teen might start talking excessively about calories, “clean” eating, or feeling “bad” for eating certain foods. They may also begin comparing their body to others or expressing dissatisfaction with how they look, even if they didn’t seem concerned before.

• Changes in Eating Habits or Rituals
  Skipping meals, cutting out entire food groups, or suddenly becoming vegetarian or vegan (especially if it seems more about restriction than ethics) can be a sign. You may also notice rigid routines around eating, like needing to eat alone, eating very slowly, or cutting food into tiny pieces.

• Increased Isolation or Avoidance of Social Meals
  If your teen starts avoiding family dinners, making excuses to skip meals, or withdrawing from events that involve food (like birthdays or team lunches), it could be more than just shyness.

• Mood Changes, Irritability, or Anxiety Around Food
  Disordered eating isn’t just physical; it takes a toll emotionally, too. You might notice increased irritability, anxiety, or emotional ups and downs that seem tied to food, eating, or body-related situations.

• Changes in Exercise Patterns
  Excessive exercise, working out even when tired or sick, or becoming very distressed when unable to exercise, can be warning signs, especially when combined with food restriction.

• Physical Symptoms
  These might include dizziness, fatigue, hair thinning, changes in menstruation, or complaints of feeling cold all the time. While these signs aren’t always related to eating, they should prompt a closer look if combined with behavioral changes.

What You Can Do

If you’re concerned, trust your instincts. You don’t have to wait until things “get worse” to seek help. A slew of medical complications can accompany eating disorders and disordered eating, and anyone can be “sick enough.” Starting a gentle, nonjudgmental conversation with your teen is a powerful first step. Focus on their well-being, not their weight or appearance, and let them know you want to learn more about their experience.

Here’s a simple way to open the door:

“I’ve noticed you’ve seemed a little more stressed around food lately, and I just want to check in. How are things feeling for you lately?”

Try to avoid reacting to what they say, and maintain an open sense of curiosity. If you're not sure how to approach it, you’re unsure whether you can remain nonreactive, and/or you’re met with resistance: Working with a therapist who specializes in eating disorders can provide support for both your teen and your family. The earlier we intervene, the better the outcomes.

You’re Not Alone

Disordered eating is common, especially during the teen years. It’s not a failure on your part or theirs, it’s a signal that something deeper may be going on. And with the right support, healing is not only possible, it’s absolutely within reach.

If you're looking for guidance, our team specializes in working with teens, eating disorders, and the underlying stressors that drive them. Schedule a call with us to start receiving support today!