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Eating disorders in kids

This is such a hard issue to find out about, we feel for anyone who has ever had to endure an eating disorder or dealt with a loved one who went through it.  While it can be full of agony, you can pick up on many of the symptoms along the way. Listen, we'll give you a list of the tips, tricks, and methods to learning more about your child's eating habits in hopes that it helps you in your situation or keeps it from happening all together.

The sports athlete

Being active is great and we understand that it is great to get your children involved in extracurricular activities. However, there are sports and activities that require you to watch your weight. Wrestling, gymnastics, figure skating and ballet are just a few examples, but you only need one to have a change occur. Shape changes in the early teens might be in conflict with the image required for the sport. So, if you can, keep them out of these sports and if you can't, at least sit down and discuss the possible problems. Keep in mind a good solid meal three times a day can keep them at an ideal weight.

The disorders from disorders

It is bad enough that we have things like anorexia, bulimia or others like binge eating.  The biggest problem associated with any of this is that it can create other disorders and exacerbate the downward spiral, further damaging the body.  So, it's important to overcome the obstacles before they get too far out of hand.  Where do you start? Finding the symptoms as soon as possible is the key.

If you believe your child has an unhealthy relationship with food, pay attention to signs such as skipping meals, excessive exercising and drastic weight loss - this could be a cause for concern. There are other symptoms as well like noticing this binge eating happening or an odd realization that they are counting calories during each meal. All of them are symptoms, and even if you don't see them yet, talking about them could bring things out into the open.

Oh, and we did not mention any of the other disorders before because we didn't want you to be distracted from the information.  However, you do need to know about them so you can get educated on as much as possible.  There are many, but we'll just give you a few. Dehydration, hair loss, gum decay, tooth decay, muscle loss, and even death.  Routine check-ups are recommended if several of these are noticeable.

Be aware of your kids eating patterns

Eating disorders are on the rise. Many have the opinion this kind of disorder often is an expression of self-esteem issues and these have to be addressed. However, creating a healthy attitude to food in your kids will help to prevent this type of disorder.

Open your eyes to signs of eating disorders. Your kid may have a pronounced weight loss, start skipping meals, be obsessed with calorie counts, do excessive exercise, and indulge in binge eating.

One important thing is to teach them not to eat for emotional reasons, to find constructive outlets such as exercise or a hobby. A creative hobby where they can express themselves and they are good at is the best.

Contact your physician immediately if you suspect a disorder. Some symptoms and problems caused by the eating disorders are dehydration, malnutrition, hair loss, diabetes, muscle loss, tooth, and gum decay, even death.

Beware of Internet use if you suspect a disorder, check their history to see what they are researching online. Know that anorexia, bulimia, binge eating are common disorders. many sufferers chat online and give tips to each other. Check software that provides parental controls to be able to see what they do online.

Monitor media from an early age to allow for more of a positive body image. Be sure they know humans come on all sorts of shapes and sizes and all are very valuable.

The discussion

Eating disorders are the expression of low self-esteem and unrealistic expectations about their body image. Raise their self-esteem by having them join activities, sports, hobbies, even start a business.

Your positive self-image will help discourage eating disorders. If you like yourself, no matter what shape, and you let them know you like them, whatever their shape, they will see themselves under other light. They will like themselves and there will be no self-esteem issues.

When talking with your children about eating disorders you will soon realize it's not easy.  If they may become defensive which you will want to tread lightly.  An easier way to deal with the situation is to call your family doctor ahead of time and talk about the concerns.  You don't want your child to drift further away, especially if there is a situation.  So, take precautions so the result will be a successful one.