Atypical Anorexia Explained: Why Restriction Happens at Every Body Size

In this solo episode, Dr. Marianne Miller, LMFT, breaks down the reality of atypical anorexia and challenges the damaging myth that only thin people struggle with restrictive eating. Despite the name, atypical anorexia is far from rare—and for many people in mid-sized and fat bodies, it goes undetected, misdiagnosed, or even encouraged by medical providers because of weight stigma.

Dr. Marianne explores why restriction is deeply harmful regardless of body size, and shares research showing that at least 50% of people who meet anorexia criteria are not in bodies typically identified as anorexic. She also explains how neurodivergence—including autism, ADHD, and OCD traits—can interact with restriction, and why sensory-attuned, neurodivergent-affirming, and trauma-informed care is essential.

If you’ve ever felt like you weren’t “sick enough” to deserve support, this episode is here to offer clarity, validation, and the reminder that you are already worthy of care.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE:

• What atypical anorexia actually means and why the name is misleading

• The percentage of people with anorexia who are not underweight

• The effects of weight stigma in delaying eating disorder diagnosis and treatment

• How restriction harms people in every body size

• The connection between neurodivergence and restrictive eating

• Why restriction “counts” even if you haven’t lost weight

• How healing begins with naming the disorder and receiving affirming care

CONTENT CAUTIONS:

This episode includes discussion of restrictive eating, weight stigma, medical complications, and BMI. Please listen with care and take breaks if needed.

CHECK OUT OTHER PODCAST EPISODES ON ATYPICAL ANOREXIA:

• Atypical Anorexia with Amy Ornelas, RD on Apple or Spotify.
• Atypical Anorexia: Mental & Physical Health Risks, Plus How the Term is Controversial on Apple or Spotify.
• What Is Atypical Anorexia? Challenging Weight Bias in Eating Disorder Treatment with Emma Townsin, RD @food.life.freedom on Apple or Spotify.

WORK WITH DR. MARIANNE:

If you’re struggling with restriction, food obsession, or atypical anorexia and are seeking affirming, experienced support, Dr. Marianne offers therapy in California, Texas, and Washington, D.C. Her approach is weight-inclusive, neurodivergent-affirming, and trauma-informed.

Get started here: 👉 https://www.drmariannemiller.com

INTERESTED IN HANGING OUT MORE IN DR. MARIANNE-LAND?

• Follow me on Instagram @drmariannemiller
• Check out my virtual, self-paced ARFID and Selective Eating course
• Look into my self-paced, virtual, anti-diet, subscription-based curriculum. It is called Dr. Marianne-Land's Binge Eating Recovery Membership.
• Live in California, Texas, or Washington D.C. and interested in eating disorder therapy with me? Sign up for a free, 15-minute phone consultation HERE or via my website, and I'll get you to where you need to be!
• Check out my blog.
• Want more information? Email me at [e-mail]