Eating Attitudes Test: Is There a Hidden Issue with Your Relationship to Food?

Food is more than just fuel for your body—it’s a story of your thoughts and emotions. Sometimes we eat out of joy, other times out of stress, or to “control” ourselves. Eating disorders like anorexia or bulimia often start with thoughts like “I’m too fat,” “I need to cut calories,” or “Food is my enemy.” These aren’t just diets—they’re obsessions that can disrupt your life.

This test is based on the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26), developed in 1979 by the Clarke Institute of Psychiatry at the University of Toronto. The lead author, David Garner, along with colleagues like Paul Garfinkel and Marlene Olmsted, aimed to create a simple way to spot risks of eating disorders. Originally 40 questions (EAT-40), it was shortened to 26 in 1982 for ease of use. Garner believed this screening could help not just clinics but also schools or athletes—groups where food issues are common.

What’s unique about EAT-26? It’s a screening tool, like a warning light on a car dashboard. It looks at your thoughts (cognitive), actions (behavioral), and feelings (emotional) about food. A high score means: “Hey, there might be an issue; talk to a professional.” It’s not a diagnosis. It’s great at catching anorexia and bulimia but also flags other issues like compulsive overeating or restrictive habits. Fun psychology fact: Eating disorders are more common in societies that idolize thinness (think models or athletes). Freud linked food to sexuality and control back in the 1900s, but today’s research shows it’s often a response to stress or trauma. Women are affected 9 times more often, but men struggle too—they just often hide it better.

The Test

Here’s a simplified version of the 26-question test (same as the original). Answer honestly; no one’s checking.
Scale: Answer each statement with Always, Usually, Often, Sometimes, Rarely, or Never.
Scoring: For most questions (1-6, 8-24, and 26), assign points as follows: Always = 3, Usually = 2, Often = 1, Sometimes = 0, Rarely = 0, Never = 0.
Reverse-Scored Questions (7 and 25): These two questions are scored in reverse (because they are "healthy" statements): Always = 0, Usually = 0, Often = 0, Sometimes = 1, Rarely = 2, Never = 3.

1. I’m terrified of becoming fat.
2. I avoid foods high in carbohydrates.
3. I count the calories in the food I eat.
4. I feel that others pressure me to eat more than I need.
5. I think a lot about appearing slim.
6. I eat when there’s a lot of food around.
7. I don’t actually think I’m too fat. (Reverse-scored)
8. I avoid foods high in fat.
9. I enjoy preparing tasty food for others but don’t eat it myself.
10. I cut fat off meat, remove skin from chicken, or avoid dairy.
11. I especially enjoy skipping meals.
12. If I eat more than I should, I punish myself (e.g., fasting or exercising).
13. Others say I’m too thin.
14. I’m ready to fight to avoid eating with someone.
15. I avoid eating when I’m hungry.
16. Instead of eating, I chew gum or suck on candies.
17. I know the calorie content of the food I eat.
18. I especially enjoy vomiting after eating.
19. I think about food for a long time.
20. I skip at least two meals a day.
21. I check my body in the mirror to see if I’m fat.
22. I eat when I’m nervous or upset.
23. Others don’t understand how important it is for me to watch my weight.
24. I can’t allow myself to eat dessert.
25. I don’t think about the number on the scale. (Reverse-scored)
26. I avoid foods with sugar in them.

Done? Add up your points: Sum all questions using the scoring system above. The maximum score is 78, but the focus is on the cutoff score of 20+.

Extra Questions (not scored, but think about them)

• In the past 6 months, were you pregnant or trying to lose weight? (Yes/No)
• In the past 6 months, did you vomit after eating to lose weight? (Yes/No)
• In the past 6 months, did you use laxatives or diuretics for weight loss? (Yes/No)
• Do you have issues controlling your weight? (Yes/No)
• Have you used over-the-counter weight loss pills? (Yes/No)

What Do Your Results Mean? A Simple Explanation

Score below 20: You’re likely in the clear; your relationship with food seems healthy. Thoughts about calories or weight don’t control you. Keep enjoying food without obsession. But if you answered “yes” to any of the extra questions, consider if something’s brewing.

Score 20 or higher: This is a warning sign. The test suggests you might have unhealthy habits, like excessive control or fear of gaining weight. It’s not a diagnosis, but the risk of a disorder (anorexia, bulimia, or other) is higher. Answering “Yes” on the extra questions strengthens this signal. Talk to a psychologist or dietitian. Why does it matter? Eating disorders are treatable early—therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) help 60-70% of people. Fun fact: Studies show social media fuels this—images of “perfect” bodies push 30% of teens toward diets. If the results worry you, seek help: in Ukraine, try hotlines like La Strada (116-123) or mental health centers. Retake the test in a month—things can change. This is your step toward balance.