New AAP Guidelines Help Teens Avoid Obesity and Eating Disorders

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has released new guidance to help teenagers avoid obesity and eating disorders. The recommendations focus on promoting healthy habits at home while discouraging harmful discussions about weight. The AAP advises parents to keep healthy foods available and limit access to unhealthy snacks. It also suggests using family meals as a chance to model good eating habits and improve children’s diets.

Parents are urged to avoid talking about their child’s weight or their own weight concerns. Such conversations have been linked to an increased risk of eating disorders. Teasing about weight can also lead to unhealthy behaviours, including binge eating and extreme weight control measures.

Instead of focusing on weight, the AAP recommends praising children for trying healthier foods. Reinforcing a positive body image has been shown to reduce harmful weight control practices. Forced dieting by parents is also discouraged, as it can contribute to both obesity and eating disorders. The AAP’s guidance highlights the importance of setting a good example through healthy eating and exercise. It warns against actions and discussions that may increase the risk of eating disorders or obesity in teenagers. Parents are encouraged to foster a supportive environment that promotes well-being without fixating on weight.