What can we do to prevent eating disorders in adolescents ?

Answer 1

First we need to teach our children that it is okay to be normal and do our part to get society to show a more realisitc picture of what normal is. Celebrities, Models, etc, male and female show an image and women tend to teach their children, especially girls that what they are seeing is the norm and that it is what they shoud aspire to. We need to change our perceptions of ourselves and others as adults so that we can better educate our sons and daughters. Schools should start in grade school teaching good eating habits and exercise programs and offer those classes to the parents as well.

Answer 2

In my opinion,I think the best we can do is to talk to our children.Everyone goes through stages where they eat more or less at times,but when eating becomes a problem(actually even before) we should talk about it openly.I have 3 girls and do my best to watch for signs in them and their friends.Recently I gave advice to a 15 year old...eat at least every 6 hours,hungry or not.A small salad,and baked chicken,beans,peanut butter,anything with protein.I also asked her to take a daily vitamin.In this case she wasn't eating enough.She's doing great and I try to make myself available to talk when she needs too.If she wasn't taking my advice(she is)I would get her family involved and hopefully they would see a doctor.
I think in any teen type of problems really listening is very important.Encouragement goes a long way.♥