*How to know if a teen has an eating order* ** [image: boy eating food. fotosearch - search clipart, illustration, drawings and vector eps graphics images] **
*Eating disorders are a serious condition. A lot of teens fall victim to anorexia, bulimia or extreme dieting. Unfortunately, our culture revolves around image, and susceptible teens fall victim. Although I am not a doctor, here are some tips to know if your teen has an eating disorder. If you believe your teen suffers from any eating disorders, consult a medical professional immediately.* ** *Step 1:* *Watch behavioral patterns. If your teen is normally very cheery and falls into a depression or becomes overly obsessed about weight, take notice. Eating disorders are more psychological than physical. Depression and mood swings are common. On the other end of the spectrum, if your child is overly cheerful, that could also be an indication of an eating disorder. Teens sometimes overcompensate for feeling inadequate, or they finally feel in control and accomplished in regard to what they eat. * ** *Step 2:* *Watch for a fluctuation in weight. Teen years are difficult with the onset of puberty. Many children grow a lot, put on weight or lose weight. These are all normal, but if you see your child drastically lose weight in a short amount of time, set up a doctor's appointment and discuss your concerns with your child. * ** *Step 3:* *Keep track of their eating habits. Does your child constantly skip breakfast? Are they not hungry because they had a late snack after school? If you find your child is making excuses not to eat, ask why. Are they restricting certain foods? Teens are still developing and need a wide range of vitamins and minerals. * ** *Step 4:* *Listen for hints. Most teens who suffer from anorexia, bulimia or any other psychological disorder normally give a lot of hints. Are they complaining of being fat? DO they want to be skinny like someone else? Listen and learn. * ** *Step 5:* *Talk to your teen openly about the risks related to eating disorders. By keeping an open dialogue, you may be surprised at what your teen will tell you. If your child is closed off, defensive or nervous, they may be trying to hide a potential problem. * ** *Step 6:* *Get your child help immediately if she is suffering from an eating disorder. Malnutrition in these years can be detrimental to a teen's physical health as well as mental health. *
