Eating disorder is conventionally seen as a lifestyle disease, with worrying consequences. Females seem to appear more vulnerable to eating disorders than males. Self-starvation is one of the salient features of eating disorder, denies the body of nutrients it needs to function optimally, as it is forced to conserve energy. So how does one detect a sufferer’s eating disorder?

Even though eating disorders are difficult to detect, actually, there are many signs to be aware of, especially if it concerns our loved ones and close friends that something seems not right in that person as we already know them well.

Here are some of the give-aways to look out for:
1. Obsession with information regarding or related to food.
2. Changes in eating habits, such as being particular about the type or amount of foods or the cooking methods.
3. Changes in mood, interaction or communication
4. Signs of hiding or throwing foods away.
5. Feelings of anger, anxiety, depressed, guilty feelings and moody after each meal.
6. Being anti-social, avoiding gatherings and parties where food is involved.
7. Weakened physical conditions such as feeling sick, lethargic, losing weight, dropping hair and dry skin.
8. Frequent visits to the toilet after meals or using laxatives when there is no such need.
9. Sudden changes in sleeping patterns
10. Having distorted and low self-esteem.

Early detection by psychological intervention and nutritional counselling will greatly reduced the sufferer from further deterioration. In a severe case, medical treatment is required to stabilise the sufferer.

Importantly, we must bear this in mind, we must never use force but be there for them to show our concern and love, give support, encouragement and best of all - a listening ear whilst the sufferer to find a mode of recovery that is suitable for themselves.