What are pediatric eating disorders?
While most people who suffer from eating disorders are adults, a growing number of children are developing these disorders each and every year.
Avoidant/Restrictive food intake disorder
This is the most common form of childhood eating disorder and occurs when a child develops an aversion to certain foods or types of food. Your child might fear they’ll become sick if they are forced to eat certain foods, even if the food used to be a favorite.
Anorexia nervosa
This disorder is characterized by an obsession with weight control and food intake. Your child might become overly focused on calorie counting or portion sizes or begin to exercise excessively.
Bulimia nervosa
This disorder is marked by a cycle of binging and purging, coupled with a preoccupation with body weight, shape, and size.
Your child might be unable to see themselves in a realistic way and might insist they are overweight even when they fall within the normal or underweight range.
Some kids develop a mixed eating disorder, which can include characteristics of more than one type.
How do I know if my child has an eating disorder?
Kids go through stages where they have strong opinions about the foods they like and dislike.
Their appetites also fluctuate as they develop, which can make it difficult to spot a problem in the early stages.
Some factors to keep an eye out for include:
- Eating large amounts of food in one sitting
- Stomach pains and digestive problems
- Frequent, secretive vomiting
- Focus on fasting, dieting, or exercise
- Acid reflux
- Frequent mouth sores or sore throat
- Weight fluctuations
- Use of or interest in laxatives, diuretics, or enemas
- Bad breath
- Depression
Left untreated, eating disorders can threaten your child’s health. Malnutrition is a real concern, as is gastrointestinal damage, tooth decay, and a wide range of other issues.
What can be done to treat pediatric eating disorders?
Dr. Cooney is a strong believer in the power of family-based intervention and treatment. She takes the time to educate both parents and children on the importance of good nutrition and how to support healthy eating habits that can last a lifetime.
By providing you with tools and techniques to help your child reach and maintain a healthy weight and learn to rethink their approach to nutrition, Dr. Cooney can empower you to be your child’s best advocate and supporter.
As you move through treatment, Dr. Cooney will meet regularly with your child to evaluate their progress. Tracking weight changes is very important, but so is the opportunity to get the support and guidance you need as a family.
To learn more about treatment for malnutrition and pediatric eating disorders, schedule an appointment with Dr. Cooney today, online or by phone.
