The first warning signs that family or close friends 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