What Are 5 Signs of Anorexia?

Anorexia nervosa, commonly referred to as anorexia, is a serious eating disorder that impacts both physical health and mental well-being. Recognising the signs early can make a significant difference in ensuring timely intervention and support. Below, we outline five key signs of anorexia to help raise awareness about this condition.

1. Dramatic weight loss

One of the most noticeable signs of anorexia is a rapid or significant drop in weight. People with anorexia may intentionally restrict their calorie intake to achieve an unrealistically low body weight. Despite their thin appearance, they often feel an intense fear of gaining weight, leading to persistent dieting and excessive weight monitoring.

2. Obsessive preoccupation with food, calories, and dieting

Individuals with anorexia often develop an overwhelming focus on food, calories, and dieting. They may:

• Count every calorie meticulously.
• Avoid certain food groups entirely (e.g., carbs or fats).
• Exhibit unusual eating rituals, such as cutting food into tiny pieces or rearranging food on their plate without eating much.

While being health-conscious is common, this behaviour becomes obsessive and disruptive in those with anorexia.

3. Distorted body image

A hallmark of anorexia is a distorted perception of one’s body. Someone with anorexia may believe they are overweight, even when they are dangerously underweight. This skewed self-image fuels their restrictive eating habits and prevents them from acknowledging the seriousness of their condition.

4. Avoidance of meals and social eating

People with anorexia often avoid eating in front of others. They may:

• Make excuses to skip meals, such as claiming they’ve already eaten.
• Push food around on their plate to appear as if they’re eating.
• Avoid social events where food is a focal point.

This behaviour stems from a desire to control their eating and fear of judgement from others.

5. Physical symptoms

The body may struggle to cope with restricted food intake, leading to the appearance of various physical symptoms:

• Fatigue and weakness.
• Hair thinning or hair loss.
• Brittle nails and dry skin.
• Females may experience irregular or missed menstrual cycles.
• The reduced body fat and slowed metabolism often lead to feelings of coldness.

These symptoms signal that the body is not receiving adequate nutrients to function properly, highlighting the severity of the disorder.

How medical cannabis can help

Medical cannabis shows potential in helping with anorexia by addressing some of the disorder’s underlying symptoms and challenges. One of its primary benefits lies in appetite stimulation, as certain cannabinoids, like THC, interact with the endocannabinoid system to trigger hunger signals, commonly referred to as “the munchies.” Beyond appetite, cannabis may also help alleviate anxiety and depression, which are often associated with anorexia, by promoting a sense of calm and emotional balance. Additionally, it can support better sleep patterns, improving overall mental and physical well-being during recovery. While medical cannabis is not a standalone cure, it can serve as a complementary therapy alongside traditional treatments under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Final thoughts

Anorexia is more than just a desire to be thin, it’s a complex mental health condition with serious consequences. If you or someone you know is displaying these signs, it’s crucial to seek help from a healthcare professional. Early intervention can prevent long-term complications and support recovery