5 Ways to Identify Signs of Bulimia in Teens

1. Recognizing the Warning Signs

Researchers estimate that almost half of all women in America have dealt with an eating disorder in their lifetimes, and most of these experiences take place in the teen years. Teens are especially susceptible to the pressures society place on us to look good, be thin and have the perfect body. While eating disorders like bulimia can be triggered in anyone at any age, it is especially important to know how to identify the signs of bulimia in teens.

2. Observe Eating Habits

Bulimia involves a binging-and-purging cycle that is all about food denial and allowance. Teens who suffer from bulimia will eat large quantities of food quickly, then need to purge themselves of the food (and the guilt they associate with it) soon after. Watch for changes in your teen's eating habits: Formerly picky eaters might start eating everything they can, particularly sweets and carbohydrates. A sweet tooth isn't unusual for a growing teenager, but this can also be a side effect of purging, because the body needs to replace sugar in the blood. Also be aware of your teen's attitude at mealtimes. She might be edgy or withdrawn during meals, and will find an excuse to leave the table quickly after finishing her meal.

3. Take a Good Look

Your teen's physical appearance can reveal many warning signs of bulimia. Bulimia can cause quick, sudden weight loss. Cheeks may appear sunken and hollow, and the fingernails and area under the eye can look shadowed and bluish. Your teen's lips could be constantly chapped, and her breath will smell sweet if she is purging frequently. Her hair will also become dull after systematic purging, because oil production slows down as the body tries to replenish its diminished nutrients.

4. Watch Their Clothing

Pay attention to your teen's clothing and wardrobe. Rapid weight loss causes clothing that used to fit to look oversized and baggy -- a look that very few teen girls opt for without a good reason. Bulimics often wear oversized clothes to hide their weight loss, and because of their poor body image. They may avoid shopping for new clothes, since they are not satisfied with their body, visualize themselves as fat and do not want to risk others seeing their body.

5. Loss of Interest is a Warning

Loss of interest in normal activities is a classic sign of teen bulimia. Teens who are normally outgoing and socially active become sullen and withdrawn. Bulimics often become introverted and solitary because they are ashamed of what they are doing, but also because they view themselves as ugly and do not want others to see and judge them. Bulimics often feel that no one understands their pain. Mood swings aren't uncommon in teenagers, but don't rule out the possibility of bulimia being the cause if your child exhibits other symptoms.