Academic pressure and family expectations can affect a child's eating habits. Behavioral changes related to nutrition indicate an eating disorder; early recognition helps parents intervene promptly, preventing malnutrition and rickets.

Extreme eating habits

Children with eating disorders often skip meals, eat little, or avoid specific foods without clear reasons. Some may lie about eating, push food around their plate, hide food, secretly discard it, or pretend to eat to avoid questions. These behaviors suggest a child's anxiety, self-consciousness, or confusion about food and their weight. Parents should remain calm, talk with their child, and understand their feelings during meals to offer timely support.

Weight concerns

Children frequently mention feeling fat, scrutinize their appearance in mirrors, and show excessive concern about calories or diet. Phrases such as "I need to be thinner" or "I shouldn't eat this" can be early warning signs. Instead of dismissing these comments, parents should encourage their child to share their reasons and remind them of health's importance.

Unusual physical signs

Rapid weight loss, paleness, fatigue, or thinning hair can indicate a child is not receiving adequate nutrition. These physical manifestations often appear later than unusual eating behaviors, meaning parents usually detect them after the issue has been present for some time.

Mood and emotional changes

Emotional shifts are early indicators of an eating disorder; for example, a child may become unusually quiet, easily irritable, or avoid social activities. Rather than scolding or pressuring, parents should gently talk, listen patiently, and reassure their child that they will not be judged.

General recommendations for parents include: creating a pleasant mealtime atmosphere, offering diverse foods, involving children in meal preparation, maintaining a fixed eating schedule, limiting snacks, and modeling healthy eating habits. A gentle, patient approach helps children gradually adjust their behavior and maintain proper nutrition.

Le Nguyen (According to Times of India)