Five Ways Parents Can Prevent Eating Disorders

Eating disorders affect people from all social, ethnic, and economic backgrounds. However, eating disorders tend to affect young people more than any other age group. Because eating disorders often develop during the often-difficult period of the adolescent years, it is imperative that parents take a proactive role in helping prevent the onset of an eating disorder in the family. Researchers have found that parents can play an important role in helping their children cultivate a healthy and well-balanced approach to food and weight issues.

1. Avoid using food as reward. Many families innocently reward their children with food after they have achieved an accomplishment. Many times, these types of ‘reward’ foods tend to be laden with sugar and high in fat. While there is nothing wrong with having a celebration that involves food, parents should try not to make food a primary source of rewards. Conversely, food should also not be used as a punishment. These types of behaviors encourage an unhealthy relationship with food.

2. Encourage your child to develop interests and abilities that they are interested in. By encouraging your children to develop their own hobbies and special skills, you are helping them develop their potential and talents. Children and young adults who are invested in their own hobbies and activities tend to have better self-esteem, and are less likely to become preoccupied with issues of weight and physical appearance.

3. Learn your child’s eating patterns and emotional behavior. Early intervention can be key in preventing many of the health complications that often accompany eating disorders. Parents can help prevent these complications by learning to identify their child’s emotional behavior. This means that parents should be able to note changes in mood, and bouts with depression and anxiety. Parents should also be able to note any changes in their child’s eating patterns. People with eating disorders sometimes avoid eating with other family members. They may eat alone, and stash food in secret places for a later time. Parents should make sure their children are eating regular, balanced meals.

4. Prepare family meals together. When parents spend time with their children, it provides valuable time to communicate. Preparing family meals together is a wonderful opportunity to open up the lines of communication between parent and child. Moreover, preparing meals together is a great way to teach your children about eating well.

5. Avoid dieting and putting your child on a diet. Dieting creates a sense of deprivation that can be unhealthy and promote dissatisfaction with one’s body. Parents should avoid putting their children on diets. Instead, they should seek fun outdoor activities that they can do together, and learn to prepare healthy meals. If you feel your child does need to lose weight, consult your family physician for safe and effective recommendations for losing weight. Also, parents should avoid dieting themselves. Parents who are preoccupied with their weight and dieting may be unconsciously transmitting these attitudes to their children, even if they are not aware of doing so.

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