In light of the current childhood obesity epidemic, lots of parents are becoming more careful about what they allow their kids to eat. And though the parents mean well, too much attention on the relative healthiness of foods can have negative consequences.

Anecdotal reports from [eating disorder] specialists suggest that a preoccupation with avoiding 'bad' foods is an issue for many young people who seek help. Dr. James Greenblatt, who specializes in eating disorders at a hospital in Waltham, Mass., estimates he has recently seen about a 15 percent increase in the number of his young patients who eat only organic foods to avoid pesticides. (Source: The Columbus (Ohio) Dispatch)

Kids who have avoided refined sugar and high-fat foods for the sake of their health are beginning to avoid them for the sake of their weight. While no single factor can be blamed for triggering eating disorders, an unhealthy focus on 'bad' foods can be one of the contributing factors.

When discussing food choices with your children, make sure to emphasize that highly restrictive diet plans are not healthy.

Posted By: Aspen/CRC