Teaching Children Healthy Eating Habits
Although traditional eating disorders such as bulimia and anorexia most often develop among young adults, children are very impressionable and they can, as young as a few years old, be influenced by adults who have poor eating habits. If you are suffering from an eating disorder, take measures to treat the disease, if not for yourself, for your children. However, setting a good example may not be enough, since a number of outside sources, such as other children and the media, may influence your child. Teaching him or her about good eating habits and healthy body image is, therefore, very important.
The most common eating problem among children is not eating too little or purging the body, as anorexics and bulimics do, but rather, the biggest problem is obesity. Childhood obesity is on the rise, with twice as many children being obese today than a few short decades ago. Children are eating too much junk food-food that is high on calories and low on nutrients. To top this off, many childhood activities do not involve action-video games, computer time, and television watching all contributes to childhood obesity.
Unfortunately, being overweight as a child can cause him or her to develop eating disorders as he or she grows. Poor body image is learned easily with culture influences such as the thin baby doll or the Greek God type bodies of modern sports stars. Talking to your child about body image and practicing healthy habits is extremely important to counteract these negative influences.
Teach your child what eating disorders are and how they can be dangerous. Also teach the difference between “thin” and “healthy.” Treats high in calories or sugar should be for special occasions, not used as rewards. Instead, provide your child with multiple healthy snack choices such as fresh fruits and vegetables. Show them how these snacks can be just as yummy as cookies and potato chips. Also stress the importance of drinking water or sports drinks instead of punch. Your child, when old enough, should also learn about the food pyramid. He or she should learn how to balance a meal and why this is most healthy for a growing body. Have him or her help plan meals, using all food groups.
As your child grows, be sure to reinforce positive body image. Young adult years can be stressful, so regulate your child carefully and if you suspect that an eating disorder has developed, talk to a medical professional to figure out the best course of action.
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