Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions that affect how children think about food, body image, and weight. While they’ve long been associated with teenagers and young adults, recent data shows a worrying trend—more children under 18 are being diagnosed than ever before.
In fact, between 2018 and 2022, medical visits related to eating disorders in children under 17 more than doubled. This sharp rise has raised concerns among healthcare professionals and parents alike.
Why Are Eating Disorders Increasing in Kids?
There’s no single cause behind eating disorders. Instead, they develop from a mix of genetic, emotional, and environmental factors.
One major trigger in recent years has been the COVID-19 pandemic. Lockdowns, disrupted routines, and social isolation led to increased stress, anxiety, and depression in many young people. For some, controlling food became a way to cope with these overwhelming emotions.
At the same time, the influence of social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram has intensified. Many children are exposed to unrealistic body standards and harmful diet trends, which can distort their perception of what “healthy” looks like.
Which Children Are More at Risk?
Some children are more vulnerable to developing eating disorders than others. Risk factors may include:
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Family history of eating disorders
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Past feeding or eating challenges
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Sensory sensitivities
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Mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, or Obsessive-compulsive disorder
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Traumatic experiences related to food (like choking)
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Bullying, especially about weight or appearance
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Participation in weight-focused activities like gymnastics, ballet, or wrestling
Common Types of Eating Disorders in Children
Eating disorders can appear in different forms, including:
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Anorexia nervosa: Severe restriction of food due to fear of gaining weight
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Bulimia nervosa: Cycles of binge eating followed by purging (vomiting, excessive exercise, or misuse of laxatives)
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Binge eating disorder: Repeated episodes of overeating without purging
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Avoidant restrictive food intake disorder: Limited eating not linked to body image, often seen in younger children
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Other specified feeding and eating disorder (OSFED): Symptoms that don’t fully meet criteria for a single diagnosis
Warning Signs Parents Should Watch For
Eating disorders can be difficult to detect because children often hide their behaviors. In some cases, weight loss may even be praised, making the problem less obvious.
Be alert to signs such as:
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Skipping meals or eating very little
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Avoiding meals with family or friends
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Obsessive talk about weight or appearance
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Frequent weighing or mirror-checking
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Wearing loose clothing to hide body shape
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Claiming they’ve already eaten
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Increased or excessive exercise
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Complaints of stomach pain around mealtimes
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Avoiding social events involving food
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Feeling unusually cold
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Digestive issues like constipation
It’s Not Just a Girls’ Issue
While eating disorders are more commonly diagnosed in girls, boys are increasingly affected too. Research suggests that around one in three individuals with an eating disorder is male.
However, the pressures can look different. Many boys strive for a muscular or extremely lean physique, which can lead to unhealthy habits like overtraining, excessive protein intake, or even the use of steroids.
In some cases, this overlaps with Muscle dysmorphia—a condition where individuals become obsessed with building muscle and perceive themselves as not muscular enough.
How Parents Can Help
If you suspect your child may be struggling with an eating disorder, early intervention is crucial. These conditions can lead to serious health complications if left untreated.
Start by consulting a healthcare professional, such as a pediatrician, who can guide you toward specialists like therapists, dietitians, or adolescent medicine experts.
Here are practical ways to support your child:
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Educate yourself about eating disorders
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Model healthy habits around food and body image
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Create structured mealtimes with balanced nutrition
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Encourage family meals several times a week
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Promote non-food-focused activities like hobbies and sports
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Keep communication open about body image and social media influences
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Build confidence by praising effort, character, and strengths—not appearance
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Offer consistent support and reassurance
Final Thoughts
Eating disorders in children are becoming more common, but they are also treatable—especially when caught early. Awareness, open communication, and professional support can make a life-changing difference.
As a parent, your role isn’t to have all the answers, but to notice the signs, start the conversation, and seek help when it’s needed most.
