Childhood Habits That Can Shape Eating Disorders
Many everyday eating patterns picked up in childhood can contribute to serious eating disorders later on. A common example is the belief that squeezing in juice is healthier than drinking soda, a view echoed by Artem Veris, a dietitian and product manager at FITKIT, which makes sugar-free protein desserts. He shared his concerns with socialbites.ca.
He explains that fruit juices do offer vitamins, minerals, and fiber, but the presence of fiber depends on how the juice is processed. When pack labels list more than the first two ingredients, the fiber content often diminishes because pulp is removed. Before sale, many fruit juices undergo industrial processing that strips away beneficial properties. Sugar and preservatives are added to improve taste and shelf life. Even so, these drinks already carry a high amount of sugar, worsening the overall sugar load in the beverage, he cautions.
Another common childhood refrain that can turn into an unhealthy pattern is the urge to eat quickly and clean the plate rapidly. This can create a negative association with food. Instead of enjoying a meal, eating becomes a rushed duty that brings stress and tension.
Veris notes that rushing through a meal increases the risk that food isn32t chewed well and may slip into the esophagus in larger pieces. Poor mixing with saliva and slower digestion can lead to discomfort. When meals are eaten slowly and thoroughly chewed, people tend to feel fuller sooner and are less prone to overeating.
He also warns against using food as a reward. The idea of tying achievements to a treat can form a mental link between actions and food. While such rewards might work briefly, the habit can embed itself in the brain, driving appetite and causing eating even when there is no real need, a risk heightened with sweets.
Another pattern to watch is eating “in reserve” to stave off future hunger. That habit often leads to extra calories and weight gain. The duration of fullness is not just about quantity; the quality of what is eaten matters as well.
Veris adds that the composition of a meal matters as much as the timing. Consuming too many simple carbohydrates can leave a person hungry again within a short period. A balanced meal featuring protein, fats, carbohydrates, and fiber tends to provide longer-lasting fullness. If there is a need to avoid long gaps between meals, slower-digested proteins can help, such as casein found in certain protein shakes or fat-rich cuts of meat. When selecting foods, he emphasizes checking the ingredient list for a balanced macronutrient mix, often summarized as HFCF: healthy fats, fiber, complex carbohydrates, and protein.
In conversation with a former gastroenterologist, the conversation also touched on hydration and mineral water. The expert cautioned that not all mineral waters suit every individual, underscoring the importance of personal tolerance and medical guidance when choosing beverages. This final point rounds out a broader message: mindful choices, balanced meals, and a critical eye toward everyday habits can support healthier relationships with food and reduce the risk of developing eating disorders.
All guidance comes with the understanding that information is most effective when paired with professional advice. Individuals seeking personalized support should consider speaking with a registered dietitian or healthcare professional who can tailor recommendations to their health needs and lifestyle.