The way we talk to children about food, weight, and body image has a profound impact on their self-esteem, eating habits, and long-term relationship with food. A positive, non-judgmental approach can help prevent body dissatisfaction and reduce the risk of disordered eating behaviors.

Eating disorders in children are often misunderstood, leading to delayed diagnosis, ineffective interventions, and stigma. Here are some of the most common myths and the facts that debunk them.

Transgender individuals face a significantly higher risk of developing eating disorders (EDs) compared to their cisgender peers. This increased vulnerability is linked to body dysphoria, societal pressures, discrimination, and mental health struggles.

Steroid use, particularly anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS), can be a significant indicator of eating disorders in males, often tied to body image concerns and muscle dysmorphia (bigorexia). While eating disorders in men can sometimes go unnoticed due to societal stigma, excessive focus on muscularity and leanness—often leading to steroid abuse—can be a key warning sign.

Talking to your child about eating disorders can feel overwhelming, but it is essential to approach the conversation with compassion, openness, and support. Parents play a vital role in shaping their child's relationship with food and body image, and the way they discuss these topics can either encourage healthy behaviors or contribute to guilt and secrecy. By using non-judgmental language and fostering open communication, parents can help their child feel safe, understood, and supported.

Eating disorders have long been stereotyped as a female issue, leading to underdiagnosis and lack of awareness about their prevalence in boys. However, research shows that one in three people with an eating disorder is male, highlighting the need for greater recognition and support. Despite this, boys and young men often go unnoticed in discussions about eating disorders due to misconceptions, social stigma, and gender biases in diagnosis (Murray et al., 2017).

Schools play a pivotal role in shaping children’s attitudes toward health, nutrition, and body image. Given that young people spend a significant portion of their day in the classroom, educational institutions have both the opportunity and responsibility to identify early signs of disordered eating and foster environments that encourage healthy habits (National Eating Disorders Association, 2023). By implementing comprehensive policies, training staff, and engaging families, schools can help prevent and address pediatric eating disorders before they escalate.

From a young age, children are immersed in cultural and societal norms that profoundly influence their perceptions of food and body image. Beliefs about what is considered "healthy," "unhealthy," or even "normal" can vary greatly depending on cultural traditions, family practices, and broader societal messages (Levine & Piran, 2004). As children grow, these norms intersect with peer pressure, media portrayals, and family expectations, often shaping the way they approach eating habits—sometimes in ways that can lead to disordered patterns.

Disordered eating can sometimes appear gradual, making it challenging for caregivers and educators to recognize when a child’s relationship with food has become unhealthy.  Recognizing when a child’s eating behaviors and attitudes toward food have shifted from being a phase or a quirk to a potentially disordered pattern is critical. Early intervention can help prevent further physical and emotional harm, so knowing the signs that warrant professional help is essential (National Eating Disorders Association, 2023 Knowing when to seek professional help can make a significant difference in a child’s long-term recovery and overall well-being.

Eating disorders in children and adolescents can be challenging to detect early because some behaviors may be mistaken for “typical” teenage moodiness or picky eating. However, certain warning signs and changes in behavior or physical health can indicate that an eating disorder may be developing. It’s important to remember that no single sign confirms an eating disorder, but a pattern of behaviors or symptoms may warrant a closer look and professional evaluation.

When you’re walking through recovery from an eating disorder — whether you’re just beginning or have been at it for a while — it’s easy to feel like every step forward should be perfect. Like every meal, every therapy session, every thought has to be “right.”

Yes, the rates of eating disorders differ across countries and regions, influenced by a complex mix of cultural, socioeconomic, genetic, and healthcare factors. But as awareness grows and research expands globally, we’re learning that eating disorders are not just a “Western problem.” They affect people in every part of the world — though how they show up, get diagnosed, and are treated can vary widely.