Childhood overweight and obese has more than tripled since 1980. Among children and adolescents aged 6-19 years old, 18 percent are considered overweight or obese. As alarming as these figures are, however, is another growing concern among children that without treatment, can result in potentially life-threatening conditions. In the last decade, scientists have started to look at eating disorders in children, why they occur at such a young age, and how they can be effectively treated.

Eating disorders are diseases that cause serious changes in eating behavior and thought about body image. The two main types of eating disorders are anorexia or anorexia nervosa or bulimia . However, many children affected do not match all the requirements of this particular disease. As adults, eating disorders in children are usually a combination of factors – physical and emotional. On the one hand, dieting in young children is instrumental in the development of eating disorders; On the other hand, there may be a method of weight control in obese children. Family eating and the effects of parents are important factors in childhood eating disorders. Comments on weight or body shape of the child, and the emphasis on thinness can contribute to negative attitudes about their bodies. This can lead to long-term problems with body image and self-esteem. Mothers tend to have a greater impact on the eating and the identity of the children, especially in girls. It is estimated that one in 100 girls and young women may have anorexia. Symptoms may exercise a lot, eat some food, vomiting after meals, and focused on eating, but did not enjoy the food. You may not realize immediately that there is something wrong. It is common for children to hide their weight loss by wearing loose-fitting clothing. You should be concerned if your child complains of being fat, do not eat meals, or makes excuses for significant weight change. Eating is a serious problem. Pressing a child to eat usually do not change their behavior. What parents should do:

• to exclude any medical or psychological condition.
• develop healthy eating lifestyle at home with three nutritious meals a day.
• Eat meals together as a family as often as possible.
• Do not skip meals.
• Keep an active lifestyle and limit TV and video games.
• Never tell children to clean their plate. This gives them a sense of not being in control of their food. Allow them to decide when they are full.
• Never criticize your child’s weight.
• Encourage children to express their feelings.
• Do not allow the child to overdo athletic activities. Be aware of what coaches expect of the team and step in if you feel activity is unhealthy.

If you think your child may have a problem with eating, be sure to consult with your physician. Treating eating disorders is difficult. It may be necessary to take both the child and family therapy over a period of time. Even when the weight of the child back to normal, it takes time for healthy behavior and positive self-developing.