Category: Pediatrics
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Understanding ARFID vs. Picky Eating
Many people have strong food preferences and dislikes, and this is a common part of our culinary experience. However, when it comes to extreme or selective eating habits, two terms often emerge: ARFID and picky eating. While they might seem similar at first glance, they are distinct conditions with varying characteristics and implications. In this…
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How Everyday Parenting Habits Can Contribute to Eating Disorders — And What to Do Instead
Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions that can have serious physical and psychological consequences. While the exact causes of eating disorders are not fully understood, research has shown that environmental factors, including parental behaviors, can play a role in the development of these disorders. In this blog post, we will explore some of the…
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Why We Dislike the “Switch Witch”
As dietitians, we often hear about the “Switch Witch”—a whimsical concept where kids trade their Halloween candy for toys or other “healthier” treats. While it may sound fun, this approach does more harm than good. Here’s why we should rethink the idea of the Switch Witch and embrace a more balanced perspective on Halloween candy.…
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How Pediatric Dietitians Can Help Kids
As a parent, you want to ensure that your child is healthy and getting all the nutrients they need for proper growth and development. That’s where a pediatric dietitian can help. A pediatric dietitian is a healthcare professional who specializes in working with children to ensure they are getting the proper nutrients they need for…
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Supporting Your Teen in Eating Disorder Recovery: A Parent’s Guide
Having a teenager struggling with an eating disorder can be a challenging and emotional journey for parents. Eating disorders are complex mental illnesses that require professional intervention, but parents play a vital role in supporting their teen’s recovery. By offering love, understanding, and guidance, parents can create a supportive environment that encourages healing and growth.…
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Understanding the Different Types of Eating Disorders
In today’s society, the prevalence of eating disorders is a cause for concern. These complex mental health conditions can have severe physical and emotional consequences for individuals. It is crucial to shed light on this issue and foster understanding among the general public. In this blog post, we will explore the various types of eating…
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Eating Disorder Signs and Symptoms in Kids and Teens
Eating disorders are a serious mental illness that affects people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. According to the National Eating Disorders Association, approximately 10 million men and 20 million women in the United States will experience an eating disorder at some point in their lives. While eating disorders are more commonly associated with teenagers…
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What Happens When You Eat Too Many Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are an essential part of a healthy diet. They provide us with essential vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants that keep our bodies functioning optimally. However, it is possible to eat too many fruits and vegetables, and this can lead to some unpleasant side effects. One of the primary issues that can arise…
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How to Foster Positive Body Image in Kids
Fostering Positive Body Image in Kids: Tips for Parents and Caregivers Body image refers to the way a person perceives and feels about their body. A positive body image means having a realistic and healthy perception of one’s body, feeling comfortable and confident in one’s skin, and accepting and appreciating one’s unique physical characteristics. Unfortunately,…
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How to Identify an Eating Disorder in Your Patient (for providers)
Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions that are becoming increasingly prevalent in today’s society. According to the National Eating Disorders Association, around 20 million women and 10 million men in the United States alone will experience an eating disorder at some point in their lives. As a medical professional, it’s crucial to know how…