www.som360.org/es
All answers

What are the first warning signs that families should be aware of in order to detect anorexia and bulimia as soon as possible?

Jordi Mitjà
Jordi Mitjà Costa
Nurse at the Integrated Functional Eating Disorders Unit. Mental Health Department
Hospital Sant Joan de Déu Barcelona

The first warning signs that a family may notice regarding anorexia nervosa are:

  • Extreme concern about body shape, diet, and weight
  • Strange food rituals
  • Significant weight loss in a short time
  • Changes in eating habits.
  • Loss of menstruation.
  • Excessive physical exercise
  • Obsessive interest in food.
  • Showing restlessness, mood swings, isolation, or sadness.
  • Making derogatory comments about one's own body.

Regarding bulimia nervosa, the following warning signs should be highlighted:

  • Going to the bathroom immediately after meals and very frequently.
  • Making derogatory comments about one's own body.
  • Sudden weight changes.
  • Frequent mood swings.
  • Excessive and unjustified expenses, which may include buying food in secret.
  • Frequent diarrhea for no apparent reason.
You are watching
Jordi Mitjà
Jordi Mitjà Costa
Nurse at the Integrated Functional Eating Disorders Unit. Mental Health Department
Hospital Sant Joan de Déu Barcelona
Sara Bujalance Arguijo
Sara Bujalance Arguijo
Psychologist specialised in ED. Director
Associació contra l'Anorèxia i la Bulímia (ACAB)