Which of the following could be a warning sign of an eating disorder?

• A. Drinking water
• B. Eating meals with family
• C. Pretending to eat
• D. Taking vitamins

Answer: (C)

Pretending to eat signals a person may be trying to hide what they’re actually doing with food or avoid questions about meals, which can be a warning sign of an eating disorder. It reflects secrecy around eating behaviors, a pattern often seen in disordered eating.

Drinking water is simply hydration and doesn’t indicate an eating disorder on its own. Eating meals with family is a healthy, supportive behavior. Taking vitamins can be normal supplementation and isn’t by itself a sign of disordered eating. The concern arises when there’s concealment or manipulation around eating, as seen with pretending to eat.