Most people think about anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa when they hear the term eating disorder. But there are actually more types of eating disorders. There are also many misconceptions about eating disorders. Here are several of them and the information behind each.

In 2023, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) released updated guidelines on the treatment of children and adolescents with overweight and obesity — the first major update in 15 years. These new recommendations have generated a great deal of discussion — especially among pediatricians, therapists, dietitians, and parents of children in larger bodies.

The grainy texture of natural peanut butter, the strong aroma of Italian food cooked with tons of garlic, the crunch of a sweet apple…these experiences may be just another part of a day fr some, but for others, the flavor, texture or smell of these types of food can be a difficult challenge to overcome. 

For those struggling with Sensory Processing Disorder, the sensitives around certain food can be debilitating and impact their quality of life. 

When a child is diagnosed with an eating disorder, it can be an overwhelming and emotional experience for families. The recovery journey is not linear, and healing takes time, patience, and professional support. Understanding the treatment process and how to best support your child can make a significant impact on their recovery.

Talking to your child about eating disorders can feel overwhelming, but it is essential to approach the conversation with compassion, openness, and support. Parents play a vital role in shaping their child's relationship with food and body image, and the way they discuss these topics can either encourage healthy behaviors or contribute to guilt and secrecy. By using non-judgmental language and fostering open communication, parents can help their child feel safe, understood, and supported.

Pediatricians play a crucial role in the early detection, diagnosis, and management of eating disorders in children and adolescents. Since eating disorders can have severe physical and psychological consequences, early intervention is essential for improving outcomes. As trusted healthcare providers, pediatricians are often the first to notice signs of disordered eating and can provide critical guidance for treatment and recovery.

Eating concerns exist on a spectrum, ranging from mild, irregular behaviors to clinically diagnosed eating disorders. While disordered eating and eating disorders share similarities, they are distinct in severity, frequency, and impact on daily life. Understanding the difference is crucial for early intervention and appropriate treatment, especially in children.

Eating disorders have long been stereotyped as a female issue, leading to underdiagnosis and lack of awareness about their prevalence in boys. However, research shows that one in three people with an eating disorder is male, highlighting the need for greater recognition and support. Despite this, boys and young men often go unnoticed in discussions about eating disorders due to misconceptions, social stigma, and gender biases in diagnosis (Murray et al., 2017).

Helping children develop positive attitudes toward food and eating is essential for their physical health, emotional well-being, and self-confidence. A healthy relationship with food involves balance, enjoyment, and mindfulness, rather than restrictive dieting or guilt around eating. Parents, educators, and caregivers play a crucial role in shaping children's food attitudes through their words, actions, and the food environment they create (National Eating Disorders Association, 2023).

Schools play a pivotal role in shaping children’s attitudes toward health, nutrition, and body image. Given that young people spend a significant portion of their day in the classroom, educational institutions have both the opportunity and responsibility to identify early signs of disordered eating and foster environments that encourage healthy habits (National Eating Disorders Association, 2023). By implementing comprehensive policies, training staff, and engaging families, schools can help prevent and address pediatric eating disorders before they escalate.

From a young age, children are immersed in cultural and societal norms that profoundly influence their perceptions of food and body image. Beliefs about what is considered "healthy," "unhealthy," or even "normal" can vary greatly depending on cultural traditions, family practices, and broader societal messages (Levine & Piran, 2004). As children grow, these norms intersect with peer pressure, media portrayals, and family expectations, often shaping the way they approach eating habits—sometimes in ways that can lead to disordered patterns.

Treating pediatric eating disorders effectively involves more than focusing solely on symptoms related to food and body weight. A holistic approach aims to address all aspects of a child’s well-being, including their physical, emotional, social, and developmental needs. By evaluating the whole person rather than isolating the problem to eating behaviors alone, caregivers and professionals can create a more comprehensive plan that fosters lasting recovery

Disordered eating can sometimes appear gradual, making it challenging for caregivers and educators to recognize when a child’s relationship with food has become unhealthy.  Recognizing when a child’s eating behaviors and attitudes toward food have shifted from being a phase or a quirk to a potentially disordered pattern is critical. Early intervention can help prevent further physical and emotional harm, so knowing the signs that warrant professional help is essential (National Eating Disorders Association, 2023 Knowing when to seek professional help can make a significant difference in a child’s long-term recovery and overall well-being.

Proper nutrition is a cornerstone in the treatment and recovery of pediatric eating disorders. Diet plays a multifaceted role in healing by addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of these disorders. Establishing balanced, nourishing eating habits not only repairs the body but also supports emotional and cognitive recovery.

Eating disorders are often complex conditions arising from a blend of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Anxiety, depression, and eating disorders in children often intertwine in a complex relationship, with each condition potentially influencing the onset and progression of the others.  Research suggests that children with heightened anxiety or depressive symptoms may develop disordered eating behaviors as a form of coping

In an age where digital platforms have become central to social interaction, children are growing up with near-constant exposure to social media. Although these online spaces can offer community, information, and entertainment, they also present potential risks, especially regarding body image and food relationships. Children frequently see images of celebrities, influencers, or peers showcasing idealized or filtered appearances, which can create distorted expectations about beauty, weight, and overall health (Levine & Piran, 2004). When these expectations become internalized, children may develop harmful perceptions about their bodies and engage in unhealthy behaviors related to eating and exercise.

Family support plays a critical role in the recovery process from pediatric eating disorders. The dynamics within a family and the strength of its support system can significantly influence the child’s ability to recover both physically and emotionally. A nurturing and understanding environment can reinforce positive habits, reduce emotional distress, and encourage effective coping strategies. When family members actively participate in the treatment process, young people struggling with an eating disorder benefit from consistent reinforcement of healthy behaviors and ongoing emotional support (Lock & Le Grange, 2019). By working together, parents, siblings, and other caregivers can play a significant role in facilitating recovery and preventing relapses.

Eating disorders in children and adolescents can be challenging to detect early because some behaviors may be mistaken for “typical” teenage moodiness or picky eating. However, certain warning signs and changes in behavior or physical health can indicate that an eating disorder may be developing. It’s important to remember that no single sign confirms an eating disorder, but a pattern of behaviors or symptoms may warrant a closer look and professional evaluation.

One of the lesser talked-about — but emotionally painful — side effects of eating disorders is hair loss or noticeable changes in hair texture, thickness, or growth. For many teens and young adults, especially, these physical signs can increase distress or shame.

Have you ever pictured something you wanted — a goal, a relationship, a feeling — and then felt like your energy helped bring it closer? That’s the heart of manifesting: focusing your thoughts, beliefs, and intentions in a way that helps you move toward what you truly want.