Eating and elimination disorders

Introduction to Eating Disorders in Childhood

Eating and feeding disorders are those characterized by a persistent disturbance in eating habits.

This disturbance leads to a change in food consumption or absorption and causes significant impairment in physical health and psychosocial functioning.

Although they are best known for their onset in adolescence and adulthood, these disorders can also manifest during childhood, with particular characteristics.

It is essential to distinguish these altered eating patterns from eating behaviors that are typical of development, such as picky eating.

Common Eating Disorders in Childhood

One of the disorders observed in childhood is pica, which is defined as the persistent ingestion of substances that are neither nutritious nor food-producing.

Another disorder is Rumination, in which the person regurgitates food, rechews it, swallows it again, or spits it out.

There is also avoidant or restrictive food intake disorder, which is characterized by an apparent lack of interest in eating or by avoidance of certain foods.

The latter disorder can lead to significant weight loss, nutritional deficiencies, or a dependence on tube feedings or supplements.

Elimination Disorders: Enuresis and Encopresis

Elimination disorders are characterized by the repeated excretion of urine or feces in places that are completely inappropriate for this purpose.

Enuresis is the repeated emission of urine on the bed or clothing, eithe