More than one in five kids and adolescents around the world shows signs of disordered eating. That’s according to a new study published Monday in the journal JAMA Pediatrics.
Experts say disordered eating is similar in behavior to an eating disorder. It can include strict food rules around how much a person eats, what they are eating and how much they are exercising. Those numbers were higher among girls, older adolescents and those with a higher body mass index.
Dr. Tom Hildebrandt, director of the Center of Excellence for Eating and Weight Disorders at Mount Sinai, joined “News All Day” Tuesday with more details.
He says that signs to look out for include stress around eating, changes in restriction in the overall amount or type of food a kid is eating, or a pattern of a loss of control around eating. This could mean an overreliance on food as a type of soothing.
For parents looking to support kids who may be suffering from disordered eating, Hildebrandt suggests creating family mealtimes. This provides structure and a regular pattern of eating. He also notes that parents should consult with doctor.