by Brandi Robinson

Created on: November 18, 2007

Eating disorders can be hard to detect because they are often seen as a lack of eating. However, bulimics eat they simply purge or take a laxative later. Bulimia is often referred to as the silent killer because many parents don't notice it since their children seem to be eating. Furthermore, overeating is considered an eating disorder. So to really know if your child has an eating disorder you should be aware of all three main types of disorders.

A major sign of an eating disorder is drastic weight loss or gain. This can be a constant steady weight loss as is often in anorexics or a yo-yo weight loss as is often seen in bulimics. Weight gain can also be constant or yo-yo. Weight is a touchy issue with anyone however if you notice your child loosing or gaining weight be watchful. Take notice and keep track.

Monitor your child's eating and restroom habits. If you suspect your child has bulimia monitor when they go to the bathroom after they eat and how long they stay in there. Many times waiting for the teeth to discolor, hair to fall out or lack of a menstrual cycle means that the disease is in advanced stages. It is important to catch an eating disorder early in life. Also notice if your child turns to food for comfort or to deal with problems. This can be a sign of an overeating disorder. Does your child binge on junk and then go to a strict diet. These are all signs.

How much is your child exercising? Is it several times a day? This could also be a sign of eating disorder. Some people with eating disorders develop and addiction to exercising. Also how long do they exercise? Running for several hours is appropriate for training for a marathon but not necessarily for a teenager trying to stay in shape.

Body perception is another important thing to notice. What does your child think of their body? Very negative perceptions could lead to disorder if they don't already have one. You may want to seek therapy for your child. Does your child obsess about how they look in the mirror and their dress size. While small amounts of this are normal obsessing is not. Depression can also lead to an eating disorder.

Know your child. Children get very private in their teen years and they keep things from their parents. Be sure you are noticing your child's behavior and be sure to at least try to start discussions on the topic of eating disorders. Be aware of your child and what they are doing in their spare time. Be aware of who they are hanging out with and notice their friends weight. While this may seem unimportant alot of girls will share their disorder as a great way to loose weight and then another friend will try it. So it is important to know their friends and recognize danger signs in their friends also.

Talk about it before your child becomes a teenager. This may prevent the heartache. Talk about how people look and how "healthy" is not Hollywood. Be sure that you give your child positive role models that demonstrate "healthy" eating and weight habits.

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