Primary Schoolers Eating Disorders

Primary Schoolers Eating Disorders

• Children typically begin a growth spurt shortly before age 10 (for girls) and age 12 (for boys). Some pre-teens can become a bit overweight but usually return to their normal weight within a year or two.
• Some children eat too much. They may feel bored, frustrated, worried or depressed. Others may eat too little for a variety of social and health reasons. If you are worried about your child's diet and eating pattern contact a health professional - such as your doctor.
• If you nag children about their diets they may eat more or eat in secret.
• A temporary loss of appetite can be normal if it's the result of:
  • a cold
• an upset stomach
• a minor illness.
• If a child's appetite loss lasts for more than two to three weeks it may mean there is a problem.
• Anorexia nervosa (not eating) and bulimia (eating too much and then vomiting ) are about nine times more common in girls than in boys. Young people with anorexia may go on a diet to lose weight and continue dieting even after they are very thin. Bulimics may use vomiting or laxatives to control their food intake. Even when they are thin they still see themselves as fat.
• Some signs of these illnesses may include a tendency to:
  • be a loner
  • be a perfectionist
  • skip meals or eat small quantities only
  • eat large amounts and vomit
  • abuse laxatives or exercise excessively
  • be pale, irritable and weepy
  • lose hair
  • stop menstruating.
• Eating disorders can cause serious health problems such as kidney failure and heart problems.
• Appropriate treatment and support from doctors, counsellors and self help groups is essential to the wellbeing of the child, parents and family.

Both anorexia and bulimia involve complex psychological and physical issues. Ask your doctor to refer you to a qualified practitioner who specialises in eating disorders.

Parenting tips & parenting articles copyright & courtesy
Department for Community Devlp, Australia.

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