- my iParenting
- quick clicks
- recipes today articles
- recipes today q&a
- community & groups
- research baby names
- prepare a birth plan
- content channels
- ip channel rss feeds
- read birth stories
- read parenting stories
- recommended books
- e-newsletters
- safety recalls
- ip diaries
- ip store
- mom of the month
- dad of the month
- editor's letter
- letters to the editor
From Our Sponsors
- e-newsletters
- Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters
- award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.
Teens at the Table
The American Medical Association Weighs in on Nutrition and Young People
- Irregular heartbeat or cardiac arrest
- Heart failure
- Kidney damage
- Liver damage
- Weakened immune system
- Permanent loss of bone mass, leading to bone fractures and osteoporosis
- Infertility (from interruption of the menstrual cycle)
- Anemia
- Malnutrition
- Depression
- Imbalances of electrolytes (sodium, potassium and other minerals)
Binge eating also increases the risk of obesity, heart disease, diabetes and colon cancer. The most common types of eating disorders are binge eating, anorexia and bulimia.
If you are concerned that your adolescent is overweight or has an eating disorder, the American Medical Association suggests that you consult a physician. He or she will help you and your adolescent learn the basics of a healthy diet. If your child is overweight, the doctor can help your child develop a weight-loss plan that will include increasing the level of physical activity and adopting other health-promoting habits to follow throughout life.
If your child has an eating disorder, the doctor will recommend treatment that is likely to include counseling by a mental health professional. Don't delay. Remember, a healthy relationship with food is a cornerstone of a healthy life – and one of the best gifts you can give your child.