Signs your teenage son may have an eating disorder
As parents it can be deeply distressing to watch a child struggle with emotions they can’t fully articulate. For teenage boys facing eating disorders, this pain is often compounded by feelings of isolation, as these challenges are frequently misunderstood or dismissed.
In the UK, around 1.25 million people are affected by eating disorders, and approximately 25% of them are male. These figures highlight a pressing reality that boys are not exempt from these challenges, and their experiences matter. Too often eating disorders are not considered by those surrounding young boys, despite the presence of warning signs, as they are stereotypically seen as disorders affecting ‘young girls’. By recognising the signs, parents can create a supportive and understanding environment, providing the guidance needed to help their sons on their path to recovery.
At a glance
What are eating disorders in teenage boys?
Common types of eating disorders
The influence of sports on eating disorders
Physical changes to watch for
Behavioural changes to be aware of
Emotional and psychological indicators to be aware of
When to seek help
What Are Eating Disorders in Teenage Boys?
Eating disorders in boys often look different from what we might expect. Though they can be about weight, they aren’t always, with factors such as muscularity or fitness often being the focus in male eating disorders. This may mean that an eating disorder isn't immediately noticeable in teenage boys. As with girls however, eating disorders in boys are about far more than just weight or size, with issues around control, low self esteem, low mood or perfectionism underpinning the behavioural symptoms. Since symptoms can vary so widely, staying vigilant is key to spotting early signs and offering the support your child needs.
Common Types of Eating Disorders
Understanding the different types of eating disorders can help you recognise changes in your son’s behaviour and health, and determine how best to support him.
Anorexia Nervosa
Anorexia nervosa is marked by severe food restriction due to an intense fear of gaining weight. Often accompanied by a distorted body image, individuals with anorexia may become dangerously underweight.
Bulimia Nervosa
Bulimia involves a cycle of binge eating followed by behaviors used to compensate for the food consumed during a binge. These behaviors can include vomiting, fasting, using laxatives or diet pills, or excessive exercise. This disorder can be harder to detect, as individuals with bulimia may not be underweight. Unlike anorexia, a person with bulimia may not “look” unwell.
Binge Eating Disorder
Like bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder involves regular episodes of binge eating. However, unlike bulimia, individuals with binge eating disorder do not compensate for the food consumed during their binges. Those with this disorder often experience significant guilt, shame, and distress over their eating behavior.
Orthorexia
Orthorexia is not a formal diagnosis but is widely recognised as a form of anorexia nervosa or OSFED (Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorder). It involves an obsession with eating "pure" or "healthy" foods. This obsession takes priority over other aspects of life, such as socialising, relationships, or hobbies. Any deviation from eating "allowed" foods typically triggers intense anxiety, guilt, and distress. You can find more information about orthorexia [here].
Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)
A person with ARFID will severely limit the amount of food they are willing to eat, often resulting in significant nutritional deficiencies or low weight, however, the reasons for them restricting their food intake is NOT due to a desire to lose weight or related to a dissatisfaction in body image. A person with ARFID may avoid eating certain foods due to sensory sensitivities, a fear of aversive consequences such as choking or vomiting, or a general lack of interest in food.
Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)
Body Dysmorphia, formally known as Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), is a mental health condition characterised by an obsessive preoccupation with perceived flaws or defects in one’s physical appearance. These flaws are often minor or not visible to others, but they cause significant emotional distress and can severely impact daily life.
The influence of sports on eating Disorders
While sports are generally beneficial for health, certain activities can inadvertently contribute to eating disorders. In sports like wrestling, gymnastics, or swimming, where appearance and weight are often emphasised, the pressure to control weight can be intense. Even in team sports, such as football, some boys may feel a heightened sense of pressure. High-intensity sports like bodybuilding or long-distance running can also exacerbate unhealthy beliefs about body weight and performance.
Warning signs that your child may have an eating disorder
Physical changes
While not always obvious, some physical changes may indicate that your son is struggling with an eating disorder.
Weight and Appearance: Sudden weight loss, fluctuations in weight, or a noticeable decrease in muscle mass can be concerning. Boys may express dissatisfaction with their bodies or compare themselves to others, often feeling they aren't “muscular enough.”
Health Complications: Pay attention to signs like fatigue, dizziness, frequent stomach complaints, or a constant feeling of being cold. These can all be warning signs of underlying issues.
Behavioural changes
Beyond physical symptoms, behavioural changes can also offer important clues about your son's mental and emotional state.
Changes in Eating Habits: If your son starts skipping meals, leaving food uneaten, or engaging in secretive eating, these may be signs of an eating disorder. He may also avoid family mealtimes or prefer to eat alone.
Obsession with "Healthy" Eating: A growing fixation on “clean” or “pure” foods can seem positive at first, but when it becomes overly restrictive, it might mask a deeper problem.
Excessive Exercise: If your son continues to exercise obsessively, even when injured or unwell, it may be a sign of preoccupation with body image or weight control.
Social, Emotional and Psychological Changes
Eating disorders are closely tied to emotional and psychological well-being. These issues can show up in a variety of ways:
Mood Swings and Irritability: Food deprivation and body image struggles can cause significant emotional distress. Look out for increased irritability, mood changes, or sudden emotional outbursts.
Anxiety and Depression: Mood disorders like anxiety or depression often co-occur with eating disorders. Your son may express anxiety about their appearance, or seem persistently sad or worried. They may also seem withdrawn, irritable, or overwhelmed. These behaviors may be particularly apparent around meal times, and you may notice an increase in tension or arguments.
Social Withdrawal: Boys with eating disorders may begin withdrawing from social events or previously enjoyed activities. This could be due to low mood or anxiety, or because these events involve food, and they don’t feel able to partake in social eating.
Body Dysmorphia: If your son is spending excessive time in front of mirrors, comparing himself to others, or fixating on perceived flaws, it could indicate body dysmorphia, which is often linked to eating disorders.
When to Seek Help
If you notice several of these signs persisting over time, it’s important to seek help. Early intervention is critical for recovery, and the sooner your son gets the right support, the better the chances for long-term success. A conversation with a healthcare professional or eating disorder specialist is a crucial first step in supporting your child.
Offering Hope and Support
As a parent, you play a vital role in your son’s recovery journey. By recognising the signs early, creating a nurturing and open environment, and seeking professional help when needed, you can be a guiding light during a difficult time. Recovery is possible, and with the right support, your son can regain control of his health and well-being. If you're looking for further guidance, The London Centre offers expert resources and a team of clinicians dedicated to supporting families through these challenges. If you're a parent seeking further support, feel free to contact us at info@thelondoncentre.co.uk, and we’ll be happy to help.
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