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Scoring the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26) ©

By Matthew Tiemeyer, About.com

Updated: May 8, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by Steven Gans, MD

Follow the 5 steps below:

Step 1

EAT-26 ITEM SCORING:

Score each item as indicated below and put score in box to the right of each item.

Items # 1-25:

  • Always = 3
  • Usually = 2
  • Often = 1
  • Sometimes = 0
  • Rarely = 0
  • Never = 0

Item #26 only:

  • Always = 0
  • Usually = 0
  • Often = 0
  • Sometimes = 1
  • Rarely = 2
  • Never = 3

Step 2: Total EAT-26 Score

Add item scores together for a Total EAT-26 score.

Step 3: Behavioral Questions

Did you score Yes on Questions A, B, C or D?

Step 4: Underweight

Determine if you are significantly underweight according to the table to the right.

Step 5: Should You Be Referred to an Eating Disorder Professional?

If your EAT-26 score is 20 or more OR if you answered YES to any of the behavioral questions (A-D) OR if your weight is below the number on the weight chart below, please discuss your results with your physician or therapist.

(Want another take on your eating behaviors? Try the 5-question SCOFF Eating Disorder Screening)

* Note: The table above indicates the body weights for heights considered to be "significantly underweight" according to a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 18. BMI is a simple method of evaluating body weight taking height into consideration. It applies to both men and women. There is some controversy regarding whether or not BMI is the best method of determining relative body weight and it is important to recognize that it is possible for someone to be quite malnourished even though they are above the weight listed in the table. In order to determine if you are "significantly underweight," locate your height (without shoes) on the table and see if the corresponding body weight (in light indoor clothing) is below that listed. If so, you are considered "significantly underweight" and should speak to your physician or therapist about your weight. To calculate body mass index (BMI) exactly: weight (pounds) divided by height in inches; divide this again by height in inches and multiply by 703

Significantly Underweight According to Height (Body Mass Index of 18)*

Height (inches)Weight (pounds) Height (inches)Weight (pounds)
588668118
58 _8868 _120
598969121
59 _9069 _124
609170125
60 _9370 _127
619571128
61 _9671 _131
629972132
62 _10072 _134
6310173135
63 _10373 _138
6410574140
64 _10674 _141
6510875144
65 _10975 _146
6611276147
66 _11376 _149
6711477152
67 _11777 _154
BMI = (lbs) ÷ (inches) ÷ (inches) X 703

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