Disordered Eating in Adolescent Boys: Signs Your Child May Be Struggling
When we think about eating disorders, adolescent boys are often overlooked. Disordered eating is commonly associated with girls and young women, but research shows that boys are also at risk—just in different ways. Because the warning signs in boys can be less obvious and societal stigma discourages them from speaking up, many parents may not realize their son is struggling.
Understanding Disordered Eating in Boys
Disordered eating includes a range of unhealthy behaviours related to food, body image, and exercise that do not meet the full criteria for an eating disorder but still pose serious health risks. For adolescent boys, these behaviours often center around:
• Muscle dysmorphia: An obsession with becoming more muscular, often leading to excessive protein consumption, strict dieting, or compulsive exercise.
• Extreme dieting or restriction: Avoiding entire food groups, skipping meals, or fasting in an attempt to lose weight or achieve a certain physique.
• Binge eating: Consuming large amounts of food in a short period, often in secret, followed by guilt or shame.
• Purging behaviours: Inducing vomiting, using laxatives, or over-exercising to “make up” for eating.
• Excessive supplement use: Relying on protein powders, steroids, or other substances to alter their body shape.
Many of these behaviours are driven by societal messages that equate masculinity with a lean, muscular physique. The rise of fitness influencers, social media, and the normalization of extreme dieting in sports can also play a role.
Signs Your Son May Be Struggling
Because disordered eating in boys doesn’t always look like traditional eating disorders, it can be hard to recognize. Here are some signs to watch for:
Physical Signs:
• Rapid weight loss or gain
• Frequent stomach issues or digestive complaints
• Fatigue, dizziness, or fainting
• Hair thinning or brittle nails
• Declining athletic performance or overuse injuries
Behavioural and Emotional Signs:
• Increased fixation on body image, weight, or muscle size
• Avoiding family meals or eating in secret
• Strict food rules (e.g., cutting out carbs or fats entirely)
• Exercising excessively, even when injured or sick
• Frequent comparisons to others’ bodies
• Mood swings, irritability, or withdrawal from social activities
Changes in Eating Patterns:
• Suddenly following extreme diets (e.g., keto, paleo, intermittent fasting)
• Obsessing over protein intake or meal timing
• Hiding food or wrappers in their room
• Feeling guilty or ashamed after eating
How to Support Your Son
If you notice signs of disordered eating, approach the conversation with care and empathy. Avoid accusations or judgment, and instead:
• Express concern gently: “I’ve noticed you’ve been skipping meals a lot lately, and I just want to make sure you’re okay.”
• Validate feelings: Let him know it’s okay to struggle with body image and that he’s not alone.
• Encourage professional help: A pediatrician, therapist, or registered dietitian with experience in adolescent nutrition can provide guidance.
• Promote balance: Shift the focus from appearance to overall well-being and strength. Encourage a healthy relationship with food and exercise.
• Be mindful of language: Avoid making comments about weight—whether it’s his, yours, or someone else’s.
Breaking the Stigma
Many boys suffer in silence because eating disorders are still seen as a “girl’s issue.” As a parent, you can help break this stigma by fostering open conversations about body image, self-worth, and the unrealistic standards often portrayed in media.
Disordered eating is serious, but with early intervention and support, your son can develop a healthier mindset around food and body image. If you suspect he is struggling, trust your instincts and reach out for help. He deserves to feel strong—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally too.