If you think someone has an eating disorder, should you say something? A dietitian explains how to express concern without body shaming

Seeing a loved one lose significant weight or struggle with eating and exercise can be concerning. Approaching a conversation with respect and care can avoid the harms of speculation and silence.

By: Miranda Roberts, University of Wisconsin-Stout Polytechnic, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: August 17, 2026

Words: 1,767

Last Updated: 23 hours, 43 minutes ago

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By Miranda Roberts, University of Wisconsin-Stout Polytechnic

You notice someone close to you has lost a lot of weight. You also notice that they’re skipping meals and talking more pessimistically about food and their body. You feel concerned but worry that commenting on their body might do more harm than good.

So what should you do? Where is the line between showing concern and being harmful?

I am familiar with the complexities and …

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