Eating disorders in childhood and adolescence: Bulimia and Anorexia

Eating disorders, such as bulimia and anorexia, are conditions that can seriously affect the physical and mental health of children and adolescents. These diseases can have serious consequences and even cause death if not treated properly. Therefore, it is essential that parents and caregivers keep an eye out for symptoms and seek professional support to explore the causes and find appropriate treatment.

What is bulimia?

Bulimia is an eating disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors, such as self-induced vomiting, excessive use of laxatives or diuretics, or excessive physical exercise. People who suffer from bulimia often have excessive concerns about their weight and body shape, and may experience feelings of guilt and shame after binge eating.

What is anorexia?

Anorexia is another eating disorder that is characterized by extreme restriction of food intake, leading to significantly low body weight for the person's age and height. People with anorexia often have a distorted perception of their own body and an intense fear of gaining weight. They may develop rituals around food, avoid eating in public, and have an obsession with counting calories.

Impact on physical and mental health

Both bulimia and anorexia can have serious consequences for the physical and mental health of children and adolescents. Lack of adequate nutrients can lead to nutritional deficiencies, muscle weakness, heart problems, osteoporosis, and organ damage. In addition, these disorders can affect mental health, causing depression, anxiety, social isolation and suicidal thoughts.

Signs and symptoms

It is important for parents and caregivers to be aware of the possible signs and symptoms of bulimia and anorexia in their children. Some of the indicators may include drastic changes in body weight, obsession with food and body image, secret eating behaviors, avoidance of familiar meals, excessive use of laxatives or diuretics, and social isolation.

Professional support

If a child is suspected of being a teenager or suffering from bulimia or anorexia, it is essential to seek professional support as soon as possible. Doctors, psychologists and nutritionists specialized in eating disorders can help diagnose and properly treat these problems. Treatment may include individual or family therapy, nutritional counseling, and, in some cases, medication.

Support strategies

In addition to professional support, parents and caregivers can play an important role in their child's recovery process. Some support strategies recommended by specialists include:

Create a positive and supportive family environment, where a healthy relationship with food and the body is promoted.

Educate yourself about eating disorders and understand their causes and effects.

Encourage open and honest communication with the child or adolescent, giving them a safe space to express their feelings and concerns.

Avoid making negative comments about weight or physical appearance.

Actively participate in the treatment, attending therapeutic sessions and following the recommended nutritional guidelines.

Seek support from support groups for parents and caregivers of people with eating disorders.

Eating disorders such as bulimia and anorexia can have serious consequences for the physical and mental health of children and adolescents. It is essential that parents and caregivers be aware of the symptoms and seek professional support to explore the causes and find the appropriate treatment. In addition, they must implement support strategies recommended by specialists to help in the recovery process. With the right support, it is possible to overcome these disorders and regain health and well-being.