Eating Disorders Seen in Children

One of the most common complaints of mothers is that their children do not eat since their infancy. When they take their children to the doctor, they start with these complaints. According to the results, it is seen that the height and weight of the children are generally appropriate for their age, but even according to this result, the concerns of the mothers do not go away. However, in fact, the child may not have had the opportunity to eat on his own. There are people constantly trying to get him to eat while playing games in front of the television. In this process, eating is not a process for the child, but a way of communicating with adults.

Babies who are hungry are restless and feel relieved when they are full. In this way, normal eating patterns are established. Mothers sense and understand that the baby is hungry from the sounds the baby makes and relieve it. However, some mothers become alarmed at every sound the child makes and cannot distinguish the sounds. They try to feed him every time he cries, thinking that he is hungry, or they try to feed him more, thinking that the baby is not full. In other words, it is more important that the mother finds it sufficient than the baby's needs. However, the first thing that helps the baby complete the normal nutrition process is the correctly selected foods and the mother's behavior.

Just as the amount of food is important, the way it is presented to the child is also important. For example, you should not try to make the child eat by running after him with a plate in your hand or in front of the television. In this way, you may be able to feed the child, but you are not providing proper nutrition.

The most basic of eating problems seen in children are medical problems related to the child (such as digestive system problems). Another reason is inappropriate behavior and attitudes regarding nutrition, and it is more difficult to change than medical problems.

Eating disorders in children are usually based on psychological factors. Eating disorders are frequently encountered in children who are abandoned and not given enough attention. Children's attention needs must be met first. During infancy, children refuse to be fed and try to punish their families or caregivers.

In order to be fed, it is necessary to keep the child away from environmental factors that will distract the children's attention during feeding. Watching TV or chatting can distract the baby. You should not put pressure on the child to finish the meal quickly. Force feeding should not be attempted by deceiving the baby. If the child is full, he should not be forced to eat more.

Eating disorders can cause many mental, physical and social problems. Therefore, it should not be forgotten that if these problems persist for more than a month, expert support should be sought without delay.

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