Eating disorders can take a devastating impact on the health and emotional aspect of teens. Here are five ways to keep your teen from developing an eating disorder and the negative consequences that come with it.
A recent study found that 2 to 5 percent of kids in the U.S. have developed eating disorders before the age of 12. Some kids have become so scared of getting fat that they have resulted in starving themselves or vomiting after eating.
1. Be A Good Role Model
Many adults have been influenced by a culture obsessed with being thin which makes people judge themselves harshly. Unfortunately, teens can instantly pick up on their parents' fear and assume something is wrong with them. Be a good role model for your children by developing a healthy relationship with your own body to avoid eating disorders, according to Aha! Parenting.
2. Educate About The Media
Studies suggest that the more movies, magazines, TV and websites young girls consume, the higher the risk of developing an eating disorder. The media portrays thinness as desirable and the only body type that is acceptable. Teens should be taught to question what they are seeing and the unrealistic standards of beauty being portrayed by the media.
3. Do Not Make Negative Comments
Never shame your child by making comments about their body in front of other people. Instead, put the entire family on a healthier eating program to help teens lose weight.
Similarly, do not make critical comments about other people as these encourage eating disorders. Calling other people hurtful nicknames or making jokes based on a person's physical characteristics should also be eliminated as well.
4. Encourage Them To Eat Healthy And Do Sports
Good eating habits should be started while young, which means sticking to fruits and vegetables and doing away with junk food and sweets. At the same time, get kids involved in sports so they can establish a healthy attitude towards their bodies for life and avoid eating disorders.
5. Have Daily Family Dinners
Research shows that kids who eat dinners regularly with their families are more emotionally resilient, according to Today's Parent. Family dinners are a great way to help teens from developing eating disorders since it gives parents the chance to hear their kid's worries and keep track of what they are eating.
