Gangguan makan (eating disorders) are serious mental health conditions in which a person uses control of food to cope with feelings. The main types are anoreksia (anorexia), where a person eats too little to keep their weight as low as possible; bulimia, where a person binges and then tries to get rid of the food; and binge eating disorder, where a person regularly eats large amounts while feeling out of control. They are common in Malaysia: about 1 in 6 university and college students show disordered eating. Signs include worrying a lot about weight or shape, strict food rules, eating in secret, and periods stopping. Talking therapy, dietitian support and early treatment help most people recover. An eating disorder is not a lifestyle choice, and you do not have to be underweight to need help.
Need help now? If you or someone you know has fainted, has chest pain or a racing heart, has had a fit, or is thinking about suicide or self-harm, call 999 or go to the nearest emergency department.
You can also talk to someone: Talian HEAL 15555 (Ministry of Health mental health line) or Befrienders KL +603-7627 2929 (24 hours).
Ringkasan: Gangguan makan (eating disorders)
- Gangguan makan ialah masalah kesihatan mental, bukan pilihan gaya hidup. Ia boleh berlaku kepada sesiapa, terutamanya remaja dan dewasa muda.
- Jenis utama: anoreksia (makan terlalu sedikit), bulimia (makan banyak kemudian cuba membuang makanan) dan binge eating (makan banyak dengan cepat tanpa dapat berhenti).
- Tanda: terlalu risau tentang berat dan bentuk badan, peraturan makan yang ketat, makan secara sembunyi, mengelak makan bersama orang lain, haid berhenti.
- Kira-kira 1 daripada 6 pelajar universiti dan kolej di Malaysia menunjukkan tanda gangguan makan.
- Rawatan: terapi bercakap (seperti CBT), bantuan pakar dietetik dan pemeriksaan kesihatan. Kebanyakan orang boleh pulih.
- Bantuan: klinik kesihatan, Talian HEAL 15555, Befrienders KL +603-7627 2929. Kecemasan: 999.
Sumber: NHS; Teng dan rakan-rakan, Malaysian Family Physician (2026).
Apa itu gangguan makan (eating disorder)?
The NHS describes an eating disorder as a mental health condition where you use the control of food to cope with feelings and other situations. It can mean eating too much or too little, or worrying constantly about your weight or body shape. Anyone can get an eating disorder, but teenagers and young adults are mostly affected. The NIMH notes that eating disorders are serious and can be life-threatening, and that people with them are more likely to also have depression, anxiety or substance use problems.
The good news is that eating disorders can be treated. With treatment, most people recover, and early detection gives the best chance of a full recovery (NHS; NIMH).
How common is it in Malaysia? Several Malaysian studies show that problems with eating and body image are common, especially among young women:
- A 2026 systematic review of 21 Malaysian studies found that about 1 in 6 university and college students (16.45%) had disordered eating, with female students more likely to be affected (Teng 2026).
- In a study of 356 Malaysian secondary school students aged 13 to 16, 14.0% reported binge eating (15.2% of girls). Depressive symptoms, body dissatisfaction, low self-esteem and poor family closeness were linked with it (Gan 2018).
- In 398 Malaysian 16-year-old girls, 17.8% reported moderate to severe binge eating symptoms (Tang 2023).
- In an online survey of Malaysian adults, a large share reported eating disorder symptoms, mostly ones that did not fit a single type (OSFED). The authors called for more resources for eating disorders in Malaysia (Chua 2022).
These are screening surveys rather than doctor diagnoses, so they show who may be at risk. Only a proper assessment can confirm an eating disorder.
Jenis gangguan makan: anoreksia, bulimia, binge eating
The NHS lists these main types of eating disorder. A person can move from one type to another over time.
| Type | What it is | Common signs |
|---|---|---|
| Anoreksia nervosa (anorexia) | Trying to keep weight as low as possible by not eating enough, exercising too much, or both | Eating very little, fear of gaining weight, seeing yourself as fat when you are not, periods stopping, feeling dizzy or cold, hair loss or dry skin |
| Bulimia nervosa (bulimia) | Losing control over how much you eat in a short time, then trying to get rid of the food | Eating a lot in secret, going to the bathroom straight after meals, sore throat, puffy cheeks or jaw, irregular periods, feeling guilty and ashamed |
| Binge eating disorder (gangguan makan berlebihan) | Regularly eating a lot of food quickly until uncomfortably full, without feeling in control | Eating when not hungry, eating alone or secretly, hiding food, feeling depressed or ashamed afterwards; weight may or may not go up |
| OSFED (other specified feeding or eating disorder) | Symptoms that do not exactly fit one of the types above | A mix of the signs above; this is the most common eating disorder and is just as serious |
| ARFID (avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder) | Avoiding certain foods, eating very little, or both, but not because of weight or body shape | Strong dislike of the smell, taste or texture of foods, fear after a past choking or vomiting episode, or little interest in eating |
Source: NHS. Not every person has every sign. If several of these sound familiar, it is worth talking to a doctor.
Tanda-tanda gangguan makan
According to the NHS, signs that you may have an eating disorder include:
- spending a lot of time worrying about your weight and body shape;
- avoiding socialising when you think food will be involved;
- eating very little food, or having very strict habits or routines around food;
- exercising too much;
- trying to get rid of food after eating;
- changes in mood, such as being withdrawn, anxious or depressed.
You may also notice physical signs, such as feeling cold, tired or dizzy; pains, tingling or numbness in your arms and legs; a racing heart or fainting; bloating, sembelit (constipation) or diarrhoea; and periods stopping (NHS).
Warning signs in someone else
It can be hard to tell when someone you love has an eating disorder, because many people hide it. The NHS suggests looking out for:
- dramatic weight loss, or wearing loose or baggy clothes to hide it;
- lying about how much or when they have eaten;
- eating a lot of food very fast, or food going missing;
- going to the bathroom a lot after eating;
- avoiding eating with others, cutting food into small pieces or eating very slowly;
- exercising a lot.
Kesan pada haid, kesuburan, tulang dan jantung
Eating disorders affect the whole body, not just weight. The NHS lists these possible effects:
- Periods: anorexia can stop periods, or stop them from starting in younger girls; bulimia can make them irregular or stop them. See our guide to period lambat (late period).
- Fertility and sex drive: long-term anorexia can cause fertility problems and loss of sex drive.
- Bones and muscles: weak muscles and thinning bones (osteoporosis or osteopenia), which can last into later life.
- Heart and circulation: poor circulation, an irregular heartbeat, low blood pressure and, in severe cases, heart failure.
- Teeth and throat: in bulimia, stomach acid from being sick can damage tooth enamel and the lining of the throat.
- Brain and nerves: trouble concentrating and remembering, and less often fits (seizures).
- Kidneys, bowels and immunity: kidney or bowel problems, a weaker immune system and anaemia.
Many of these problems start to improve once eating improves (NHS). Anorexia is one of the leading causes of deaths related to mental health problems, from physical complications or suicide, which is why early help matters (NHS).
Pregnancy: if you are pregnant and have, or have had, an eating disorder, tell your doctor and midwife so they can support you during and after pregnancy (NHS).
Punca dan faktor risiko
The exact cause of eating disorders is not known. The NHS says you may be more likely to develop one if:
- you or a family member has a history of eating disorders, depression, or alcohol or drug misuse;
- you have been criticised for your eating habits, body shape or weight;
- you feel strong pressure to be slim, from society or your job (for example dancers, models or athletes);
- you have anxiety, low self-esteem, an obsessive personality or are a perfectionist;
- you have been abused, or have been through a stressful event or trauma.
Body image pressure is a real factor in Malaysia too. In a 2020 online survey across four Asian countries, 42.3% of Malaysian adults reported unhealthy weight-control behaviours in the past 3 months, the highest of the four countries, and people who felt their body image was shaped by social or traditional media were more likely to do this (Chua 2023). Other conditions are also linked with eating disorders, including PCOS and autism. Frequent overthinking has also been linked with binge eating.
Rawatan gangguan makan
Treatment depends on the type of eating disorder, but usually includes a talking therapy, support from a dietitian and regular physical health checks (NHS). Treatment is tailored to you and should also cover other problems such as depression or anxiety.
| Eating disorder | Main treatments (NHS) |
|---|---|
| Anorexia (adults) | A talking therapy such as CBT (weekly for up to 40 weeks), MANTRA (Maudsley anorexia nervosa treatment for adults, about 20 sessions) or SSCM (specialist supportive clinical management, 20 or more weekly sessions), together with a dietitian’s meal plan and regular health checks |
| Anorexia (under 18) | Family therapy, usually 18 to 20 sessions over a year; sometimes CBT or adolescent-focused psychotherapy |
| Bulimia | A guided self-help programme or talking therapy, with family involved for under 18s; help from a dietitian; antidepressants only if there is also anxiety or depression |
| Binge eating disorder | A guided self-help programme first; if this has not helped after 4 weeks, CBT (often about 20 group sessions over 20 weeks); antidepressants are not used as the only treatment |
Some people need to stay in hospital if they have serious physical health problems or are at risk of self-harm or suicide (NHS). A meal plan alone will not treat anorexia; talking therapy is needed as well (NHS).
Avoid quick fixes. The NHS advises not to diet while being treated for binge eating disorder, because dieting can make it harder to stop bingeing. Slimming pills, laxatives and water pills do not treat an eating disorder and can be harmful; our guide to weight loss supplements lists people with a history of eating disorders among those who should not use them.
Things that can help during recovery (NHS):
- try not to spend too much time looking in mirrors or checking your body, and avoid weighing yourself unless your care team asks you to;
- avoid websites and social media accounts that push weight loss or very low body weight;
- plan something absorbing to do after meals, such as a hobby;
- talk to people you trust, or write your feelings down if talking is hard;
- see your dentist regularly.
Cara membantu ahli keluarga atau kawan
Someone with an eating disorder may not realise they are ill, or may deny it and become secretive or defensive (NHS). The NHS suggests:
- stay calm and plan what you want to say; do not blame or judge, and focus on how they are feeling;
- use sentences that start with "I", such as "I'm worried because you don't seem happy", rather than "you" sentences;
- avoid commenting on their appearance, even to say something nice, and avoid talking about diets or other people's weight;
- do not take it personally if they are secretive or do not open up straight away;
- at mealtimes, avoid talking about portion sizes or calories, keep the mood light, and avoid keeping diet foods in the house;
- encourage them to see a doctor and offer to go with them.
Caring for someone with an eating disorder is tiring. Ask their doctor about support for families, and look after your own health too.
Di mana dapatkan bantuan di Malaysia
- Klinik kesihatan or a GP: a doctor can ask about your eating and mood, check your heart rate, blood pressure and blood tests, and refer you to a psychiatrist, psychologist or dietitian. Bringing a friend or family member can make the first visit easier (NHS).
- Talian HEAL 15555: the Ministry of Health mental health support line, open 8am to midnight.
- Befrienders KL +603-7627 2929: free, confidential emotional support, 24 hours.
- Talian Kasih 15999 (or WhatsApp 019-261 5999): a 24-hour government helpline that includes counselling.
- Emergency (999): fainting, chest pain, a racing or irregular heartbeat, a fit, confusion, or thoughts of suicide need urgent care at the nearest emergency department.
It can be very hard to admit you have a problem and ask for help. You deserve support at any weight and at any stage.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Apa itu gangguan makan (what is an eating disorder)?
An eating disorder is a mental health condition where a person uses control of food to cope with feelings and other situations (NHS). It can mean eating too little, eating a lot in a short time, getting rid of food after eating, or worrying a great deal about weight or body shape. It is not a choice or a diet that went too far. Anyone can get one, but teenagers and young adults are most often affected, and with treatment most people recover (NHS).
Apa beza anoreksia, bulimia dan binge eating (what is the difference)?
People with anorexia try to keep their weight as low as possible, usually by not eating enough, exercising too much or both. People with bulimia lose control over how much they eat in a short time and then try to get rid of the food. People with binge eating disorder regularly eat a lot of food quickly until uncomfortably full, without feeling in control, but do not usually try to get rid of it afterwards (NHS).
Berapa ramai orang Malaysia ada gangguan makan (how common is it in Malaysia)?
It is more common than many people think. A 2026 review of 21 Malaysian studies estimated that about 1 in 6 university and college students (16.45%) have disordered eating, with higher odds in female students (Teng 2026). Among Malaysian secondary school students, about 14% to 18% reported binge eating in two studies (Gan 2018; Tang 2023). These are screening surveys, not diagnoses, but they show that many young Malaysians struggle with food and body image.
Is binge eating the same as overeating sometimes?
No. Most people overeat now and then, such as at a kenduri or during festive season. Binge eating disorder is when you regularly eat a lot of food in a short time, cannot stop when you are full, often eat alone or in secret, and feel guilty, ashamed or low afterwards (NHS). If this happens often and is affecting your life, it is worth talking to a doctor.
Can an eating disorder stop my period?
Yes. Periods stopping, or not starting in younger girls, is a common sign of anorexia, and bulimia can make periods irregular or stop them (NHS). Not eating enough over a long time can also affect fertility and weaken bones (NHS). If your periods have stopped and you are worried about food or weight, see a doctor even if you do not think you are very underweight.
Can you have an eating disorder at a normal weight?
Yes. Many people with bulimia or binge eating disorder are not underweight, and the most common eating disorder, other specified feeding or eating disorder (OSFED), does not fit one fixed pattern (NHS). You do not need to look ill to deserve help. The worry about food and the behaviours around it matter more than the number on the scale.
Can eating disorders be cured?
Yes, most people recover with the right treatment and support, although it can take time and recovery is different for everyone (NHS). Treatment usually includes a talking therapy such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), help from a dietitian, and regular health checks. Starting treatment early gives the best chance of a full recovery (NIMH).
Should I diet or take slimming pills if I binge eat?
No. The NHS advises not to diet while you are being treated for binge eating disorder, because dieting can make it harder to stop bingeing. Slimming pills, laxatives and water pills are not a treatment for an eating disorder and can be harmful. Regular meals and snacks, planned with your therapist or dietitian, are part of recovery.
How do I help a family member or friend with an eating disorder?
Tell them calmly that you are worried, using sentences that start with "I", and focus on how they are feeling rather than on food or weight (NHS). Avoid comments about their appearance, even kind ones, and avoid talking about diets. They may deny there is a problem or become defensive; this is part of the illness. Encourage them to see a doctor and offer to go with them.
Di mana dapatkan bantuan di Malaysia (where can I get help in Malaysia)?
Start with a doctor at a klinik kesihatan or a GP, who can check your physical health and refer you to a psychiatrist, psychologist or dietitian. For emotional support, call Talian HEAL 15555 (Ministry of Health mental health line, 8am to midnight) or Befrienders KL +603-7627 2929 (24 hours). If someone faints, has chest pain or a racing heart, has a fit, or talks about suicide, call 999 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Disclaimer
This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for advice, diagnosis or treatment from a doctor, psychiatrist, psychologist or dietitian. If you are in crisis, call 999 or Talian HEAL 15555.
References
- Eating disorders: overview — NHS
- Eating disorders: advice for parents — NHS
- Anorexia nervosa: overview — NHS
- Anorexia nervosa: treatment — NHS
- Bulimia — NHS
- Binge eating disorder: overview — NHS
- Binge eating disorder: treatment — NHS
- Eating disorders — National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
- Talian HEAL 15555 tawar sokongan mental mula beroperasi — Sinar Harian
- Befrienders Kuala Lumpur
- Talian Kasih 15999 — MyGOV Malaysia
- Teng CL, et al. Prevalence and associated factors of disordered eating among university and college students: a systematic review of Malaysian studies. Malays Fam Physician. 2026;21:34.
- Gan WY, et al. Factors associated with binge eating behavior among Malaysian adolescents. Nutrients. 2018;10(1).
- Tang YT, et al. Characteristics of Malaysian 16-year-old girls who reported regular binge eating episodes and the associated risk factors: a descriptive study. Int J Adolesc Med Health. 2023;35(5):411-422.
- Chua SN, et al. Estimated prevalence of eating disorders in Malaysia based on a diagnostic screen. Int J Eat Disord. 2022;55(6):763-775.
- Chua SN, et al. Social media, traditional media, and other body image influences and disordered eating and cosmetic procedures in Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Hong Kong. Body Image. 2023;45:265-272.
