Eating Disorder "Imposter Syndrome"
- Sabrina Stadelman
- Jan 13
- 4 min read
How weight stigma contributes to eating disorders being overlooked and undiagnosed
Written by Sabrina Stadelman & Cristina Luibil MS, RD, LDN
Eating disorders are a complex illness. They affect individuals of all ages, genders, body types, and sizes. Unfortunately, eating disorders are often stereotyped based on all of these factors, with one of the most common being body type or size. Many people believe that you can know who has an eating disorder based on someone’s weight or appearance alone. Many people think that only individuals who are thin, young, and female are at risk of developing eating disorders. This belief is not only incorrect but harmful. Eating disorder symptoms are often overlooked, and eating disorders are often untreated for years, in individuals who do not fit this stereotype.
What is Weight Stigma?
Weight stigma is a form of discrimination based on whether someone fits the cultural ideals for body weight, size, or shape. Weight stigma greatly contributes to the development, and even encouragement, of disordered eating. In our society, those who don’t fit the “thin ideal" are constantly pressured to lose weight. They are often prescribed diets that promote disordered eating habits and behaviors. They may be told that these behaviors are healthy, simply because they may produce the desired outcome of weight loss. (This is also incorrect, as research shows most intentional weight loss diets are ineffective long-term, even leading to further weight gain).
Not only may individuals in larger bodies displaying disordered eating habits be overlooked, but they may actually be encouraged to continue the disordered behavior. Studies have shown that those who experienced weight stigma have an increased likelihood of disordered eating outcomes.
All of these factors contribute to the “imposter syndrome” that those in larger bodies (or those not with a typical “thin ideal” body type) who struggle with disordered eating often feel. Their disordered eating behaviors, while actually harmful to their health, may be encouraged by others, or by society as a whole, in the form of fad diets and intentional weight loss. They may also feel as though others will doubt that they have an eating disorder if they don’t fit the stereotype.
To break this stereotype and combat the eating disorder “imposter syndrome”, it is important to understand what disordered eating actually looks like.
There are many different types of eating disorders and disordered eating. Symptoms can also vary among individuals. Any form of restriction and preoccupation around food can be a sign of possible disordered eating. We are often taught to focus on physical appearance as a sign of disordered eating, usually in the form of extreme thinness and low body weight. However, there are many other physical, emotional, and behavioral signs of disordered eating:
Physical Signs
Noticeable weight changes (loss or gain)
Digestive issues (cramps, constipation, reflux)
Irregular menstrual cycles
Difficulty concentrating
Micronutrient deficiencies
Dizziness or fainting, especially when standing
Feeling cold frequently
Sleep disturbances
Muscle weakness
Dry skin and hair
Brittle nails
Slow wound healing
Weakened immune system
Emotional & Behavioral Signs
Constant focus on weight, food, calories, or dieting
Avoiding certain foods or entire food groups
Skipping meals or making excuses to avoid eating
Rigid food rituals (e.g., excessive chewing, rearranging food)
Social withdrawal and isolation
Secrecy around eating habits
Obsessive focus on body size and shape
Frequent mirror-checking for perceived flaws
Intense or sudden mood swings
If you or someone you know are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is time to talk to your healthcare provider about it. It is important to remember that no matter our body shape or size, we all deserve proper nourishment.
Food is essential for us to be able to live our lives. Our bodies and brains need a variety of important nutrients from a variety of foods to be at their best. They also need enough energy from food to function. Nourishing ourselves in a culture that idealizes thin body types and encourages disordered eating habits can be very difficult, but it is so important to treat our bodies with the respect that they deserve.
Of course, for those who are struggling with eating disorders or disordered eating habits, this is much easier said than done. It takes time to unlearn the harmful dieting behaviors that we’ve been taught, especially when we also live in a culture where weight stigma is unfortunately still prevalent. It is important to be compassionate towards yourself, to seek the support that you need, and to remember that your body is worthy and deserving of proper care and nourishment at any size.
If you are looking for further support, Aterra Nutrition can help! Our dietitians take a weight-inclusive approach, focusing on overall health and nutrition rather than weight, and they specialize in disordered eating and eating disorder recovery. If you would like to speak with one of our dietitians about your individual goals and needs, check out the link below:
Our Intuitive Eating Membership, Nourish Your Life, is currently enrolling. Become a part of our community.
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Disclaimer: The information shared in this blog is for general educational and informational purposes only. It may not be tailored to your specific health needs as it is written here. This content is not intended to replace personalized medical advice, nutrition counseling, or medical nutrition therapy. Any recipes or suggestions provided are meant to inspire and should be used at your discretion. Always consult with your own registered dietitian, physician, or healthcare provider before making changes to your nutrition, lifestyle, or treatment plan. If you choose, Aterra Nutrition would be happy to help you in your own, individual nutrition and intuitive eating journey.
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