Recognizing Eating Disorders in Black Girls and Women

Eating Disorders Can Affect Anyone

She eats. She may not be noticeably underweight. She may never say, “I have an eating disorder.” She might even receive compliments for losing weight, exercising more, or being disciplined about her food choices. Yet, beneath the surface, something may be wrong.

Eating disorders do not have a singular appearance. They can affect individuals of all ages and body sizes, often making it easy for those around them to overlook the signs. For Black girls and women, this is particularly significant, as the prevalent image associated with eating disorders does not encompass everyone who experiences them. Sometimes, the signs that warrant attention are hiding in plain sight.

Eating Disorders Are Not Defined by Body Type

One of the most damaging misconceptions about eating disorders is the belief that you can identify one simply by looking at someone's body. This is far from the truth. A person can be thin, average-sized, muscular, or in a larger body and still struggle with a serious eating disorder.

This includes individuals who may have lost a significant amount of weight but are not classified as underweight. It also encompasses those who regularly binge eat and feel distress about it, yet their weight does not raise concern among others. Waiting for someone to “look sick” can lead to devastating delays in seeking help.

Signs of Distress Can Be Misinterpreted as Wellness

Be vigilant when food and exercise begin to dominate someone's mental space. Here are some behaviors to watch for:

• Suddenly removing entire categories of food from her diet.

• Experiencing intense guilt or anxiety after missing a workout.

• Skipping meals to feel “good,” only to later feel out of control around food.

• Avoiding restaurants due to anxiety about food preparation.

• Becoming increasingly anxious about eating in front of others.

While none of these behaviors alone indicate an eating disorder, they can signal a troubling pattern. **Is food becoming a source of fear, shame, secrecy, rigid rules, or loss of control?** This question may reveal more than appearances ever could.

Binge Eating Is Often Hidden

Not all eating disorders involve eating too little. Binge-eating disorder is characterized by repeated episodes of consuming large amounts of food while feeling a loss of control. A person may eat rapidly, continue eating when not physically hungry, or eat alone due to embarrassment.

Afterward, feelings of guilt, shame, and disgust may arise, often accompanied by promises to change the next day. This is distinct from occasional overeating during celebrations. With binge-eating disorder, the pattern is persistent and causes significant distress.

This is especially relevant for Black women, who experience binge eating at meaningful rates but are often less likely to receive appropriate care. Conversations may focus solely on weight, with comments like “Just eat less” or “You need more discipline,” missing the underlying issues of emotional distress and loss of control.

Weight Loss Can Mask Serious Issues

Consider a girl who begins to severely restrict her food intake. Her weight drops quickly, and she may experience dizziness, fatigue, and a preoccupation with calories. Yet, because she started at a higher weight, people may congratulate her on her transformation.

This highlights why weight alone is an inadequate screening tool. A person can experience significant restriction and psychological symptoms associated with anorexia while remaining within or above what others perceive as a “normal” weight range. A rapidly changing relationship with food deserves attention, regardless of the number on the scale.

Sharing meals can be a source of joy, but also a concern.

Exercise Can Become Compulsive

While exercise can promote physical and emotional health, it can also become compulsive. There is a crucial difference between enjoying movement and feeling compelled to exercise to earn food or compensate for eating. Watch for signs such as:

• Continuing to exercise despite injury or illness.

• Statements like “I have to burn this off” or “I can't eat that unless I work out.”

• Feeling the need to double workouts if a session is missed.

Context is key; one comment does not equate to a diagnosis. The concern arises when movement shifts from a choice to a source of fear.

Broader Changes to Notice

Changes may manifest around food but often extend beyond it. A girl who once enjoyed family meals might frequently claim she has already eaten. You may notice someone disappearing to the bathroom right after eating or food mysteriously vanishing from the kitchen. Other signs include:

• Increased secrecy about eating habits.

• Dissatisfaction with body image.

• Distress when plans interfere with food or exercise rules.

• Physical symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, or changes in mood.

These symptoms warrant evaluation rather than assumptions.

Be Mindful of Compliments

Weight loss is often viewed as an achievement, leading to comments like “You look amazing” or “Whatever you're doing, keep it up.” However, the reasons behind a change in someone’s body can vary widely. It might be intentional and healthy, or it could stem from grief, illness, depression, or an eating disorder.

Compliments, even when well-intentioned, can inadvertently reinforce harmful behaviors. You do not have to make someone’s changing body the focal point of conversation.

Don’t Wait for the “Right” Signs

If you’re thinking, “But she doesn’t look like she has an eating disorder,” that may be why it has gone unnoticed. Eating disorders are serious mental and physical health conditions that do not conform to a specific appearance. If eating is dominated by restriction, bingeing, purging, compulsive exercise, or intense fear, it is essential to consult a qualified professional.

For parents, this might mean discussing observed behaviors with a child's pediatrician rather than simply asking about weight. For adults, it involves being open with healthcare providers about food-related behaviors, even those that might feel embarrassing. If the first professional you consult focuses only on weight, it’s reasonable to seek a more comprehensive assessment.

You Deserve Help, No Matter What

You do not need to reach a specific weight or exhibit every symptom to seek help. If your relationship with food, weight, or exercise feels controlling, frightening, or isolating, it’s time to start a conversation. The goal is not to self-diagnose but to recognize when something warrants a closer look.

Eating disorders can cause serious medical complications. Seek prompt medical attention for concerning physical symptoms.

Psychology for Black Girls provides resources to help girls, women, and families better understand mental health concerns and know when to seek professional support. If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or a mental health crisis, call or text 988.

Thoughtful moments around food can indicate deeper issues.