College of Health Sciences
National Eating Disorder Awareness Week
Recognizing the Signs of an Eating Disorder
Wednesday, 04 March 2026
Angela Wallick, registered dietitian and faculty member in the University of Memphis College of Health Sciences, recently appeared on Live After 9 on WREG+ to help viewers better understand how to recognize eating disorders and where individuals and families can find support.
During the longform segment (linked below), Wallick discussed warning signs that families and individuals often overlook. She explained that eating disorders can present in many ways beyond dramatic weight loss, including obsessive thoughts about food, rigid eating rules, anxiety around meals and an unhealthy preoccupation with weight or body image.
Wallick also addressed the influence of diet culture and how constant messaging around weight, “clean eating” and restrictive dieting can normalize behaviors that may actually signal deeper struggles with food and self-image.
She encouraged viewers to pay attention when thoughts about food, weight or body image begin to dominate daily life, noting that these patterns can interfere with relationships, work and overall well-being. Wallick emphasized that eating disorders can affect people of all backgrounds and that recovery is possible with the right support.
The segment also highlighted resources for individuals and families seeking help and encouraged those who may be struggling—or who are concerned about a loved one—to reach out to qualified healthcare professionals for guidance.