Dr. Edward Phillips, an Associate Professor at Harvard Medical School and Juna Grata, coauthors of a new book, FOOD, WE NEED TO TALK: The Science-Based, Humor-Laced Last Word on Eating, Diet and Making Peace with Your Body (on-sale July 11, 2023 from St. Martin’s Press). They also host the popular podcast of the same name, Food, We Need To Talk. Juna Gjata graduated from Harvard in 2017, with degrees in cognitive neuroscience and a minor in music. She is a concert pianist and composer, and creator of the podcast.
Key Takeaways
- Some signs to look for that may indicate an eating concern: skipping meals, being restrictive with food, saying no to food at party’s and family gatherings, checking weight more than usual.
- Be aware of who they tune into on social media and if pictures represent body image concerns.
- Eating disorders are a formal mental health diagnosis affecting 20% of the population.
- Your kids will believe what they hear from you. What you are sharing about healthy body image and the way you feel as an adult about your own body, image is very important in modeling a healthy outlook for your kids.
- If there’s an issue, it’s better to deal with it than let your teen suffer in silence.
- Be careful what you say to or in front of your teen about weight loss, weight gain, working out, etc. especially if you are talking about them. You may think you’re being helpful to point things out, but chances are they are going to want to do the opposite of what you’re advising. They already know they’re a concern.
- It’s best not to talk with your teen about any concerns you have about your own weight, body image, calorie counting, or food choices.
- When you recognize that your teen needs help, seek it right away, don’t wait. It’s not a phase. Visit the National Eating Disorder Website to learn more.
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