Chewing and spitting is a lesser-known but concerning eating disorder characterized by the behavior of chewing food but not swallowing it. Instead, individuals with this disorder spit out the food after tasting it, often resulting in symptoms commonly associated with eating disorders.
What is chewing and spitting disorder?
At its core, chewing and spitting disorder can be seen as a form of disordered eating, as the individual chooses to chew food and then spit it out before swallowing occurs. While the specific motivations behind why someone feels drawn to these behaviors can vary widely, the behaviors themselves often emerge from a desire to control weight, manage anxiety surrounding food and body image or experience the sensory pleasure of eating without intaking calories.
Individuals may find that chewing and spitting still gives them the opportunity to enjoy the taste of food while simultaneously alleviating the guilt and fear of weight gain that may accompany actual consumption. For those who feel anxiety and stress around body image and weight gain, this behavior may provide a sense of control over one’s weight. However, the behavior is not as harmless as it may seem.
What causes chewing and spitting disorder?
Teens and young adults, particularly females, are at a higher risk of this disorder due to the pressures and norms of society surrounding body image and weight. There is often a strong correlation between chewing and spitting and other eating disorders like anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder. Plus, those with obsessive-compulsive tendencies may also be more prone to engaging in this behavior.
While the causes are not straightforward, certain circumstances may put some individuals at higher risk than others, including:
- Psychological components, like feelings of anxiety and a lack of control over eating habits. The act of chewing and spitting provides a temporary sense of relief from these feelings but often leads to a cycle of negative emotions, including guilt and shame;
- Genetic predispositions, as well as neurobiological changes in the brain that regulate hunger, satiety and emotional responses;
- The influence of culture and the societal obsessions with thinness that may promote a desire to restrict food intake and minimize weight gain;
- Stressful life events, such as trauma, changes in life circumstances or significant life transitions, may also trigger the onset of disordered eating behaviors as individuals look for a way to cope with overwhelming emotions.
What are the common signs?
The behaviors associated with this disorder may not be as obvious as those seen in more traditional eating disorders, making them harder to identify. But knowing the signs of a chewing and spitting eating disorder is crucial for early intervention and support. Some signs to look out for include the following.
Frequent chewing –– Individuals may frequently chew food for an extended period without swallowing it, often spitting it out afterward. This behavior can be noticeable during meals, snacks or social gatherings.
Food disillusionment –– A preoccupation with food, including an obsession with taste, texture and appearance, that does not always lead to consuming it, but highlights a relationship with food that is surrounded by significant anxiety and control.
Weight changes –– Individuals may experience unexplained increases or drops in weight without a clear dietary pattern. This could be a result of the limited caloric intake associated with chewing and spitting behaviors.
Not eating in public –– A tendency to avoid meals in social settings or gatherings can be a red flag. Affected individuals may feel embarrassed about their behavior and may prefer to eat alone or in private.
Stress around mealtime –– Feelings of anxiety, guilt or shame surrounding food and eating can be significant indicators. Individuals may express distress about the possibility of gaining weight or have intense feelings of inadequacy related to their eating habits.
Secretive behavior –– Engaging in discreet or secretive eating habits, such as chewing and spitting when alone or hiding food, can suggest an effort to hide the disorder from others, often due to feelings of embarrassment or fear of judgment. It can also lead to withdrawal from
Struggling with body image –– Individuals may exhibit a preoccupation with body image, often expressing dissatisfaction with their appearance. This can manifest in negative self-talk, constant comparisons to others or an intense focus on perceived flaws.
Withdrawal –– Affected individuals may withdraw from social activities, especially those involving food, as they may feel anxious about their eating behaviors or fear negative social scrutiny.
Physical symptoms –– While spitting out food may prevent some physical consequences associated with eating, individuals may still experience oral health issues, such as dental erosion, gum disease or digestive problems due to frequent exposure of the mouth to food without swallowing.
Unhealthy relationship with food –– There may be a pattern of extreme behaviors related to food intake, such as alternating between bingeing on foods and then chewing and spitting them out. This can promote a tumultuous relationship with food that is characterized by both pleasure and distress.
Seeking help?
If you are struggling in your relationship with food and are looking for help managing the battle of chewing and spitting disorder, look no further than Seeds of Hope. Our compassionate staff members are here to help you navigate the challenges of this complicated disorder and get you back to a healthy relationship with food.
To learn more, call 610-795-9667 or fill out an online contact form and get started on your recovery journey today.
