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While anorexia, bulimia and binge eating disorders often surface during adolescence, girls (and boys) can show signs of trouble much earlier.

Catching these problems quickly can prevent a lifelong struggle, says Jill Layne, a licensed clinical social worker with Childrens Hospital of the Kings Daughters in Norfolk, Va. Some red flags:

Shes obsessed with weight. A child might voice an intense fear of gaining weight, comment about feeling fat when shes a normal size or, if she is overweight, become fixated on that fact.

She sneaks or hoards food. You might find discarded wrappers in her room or notice shes ashamed of what shes eaten.

She makes excuses for not eating. Common lines: she had a big lunch or ate right before coming home. She seems to prefer eating alone.

Her eating and exercise habits become extreme. A child might refuse anything but very low-calorie options which can alternate with binges on favourite bad foods and constantly try to burn off calories: running in front of the television, say, or going for a jog after a long sports practice.

Her appearance starts to change. A child may or may not lose weight. If shes not getting enough calories, her hair and skin will dry out and her energy levels will fall.

She follows rituals at meals. Anorexics might cut food into tiny pieces or keep different items from touching each other. Bulimics will go to the bathroom immediately after meals to purge.

What to do: Reassure a child shes beautiful never belittle her or her behaviour and ask why shes feeling insecure. Brainstorm ways to live healthfully without banning any particular foods: a weekly dessert night instead of a regular supply of sweets, maybe, or family walks after dinner. Educate her on good food choices and how to follow hunger cues. Help her find ways to be successful, whether through sports or the arts, and nurture her friendships. Schedule a checkup with a pediatrician and, if symptoms continue, seek counselling.

Daily Press

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How to spot early eating disorder symptoms

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