Spit-up On My Shoulder

Great article in the July 2008 issue of Parenting on why moms are at risk for eating disorders. If you have body issues or perfectionistic tendencies before becoming a mother, the pressure to be the “perfect mom” can push you into an eating disorder. Like postpartum depression, it can be an illness that new moms are afraid to talk about. The more we talk about it though, the more other moms will know they are not alone and that they can feel better.

For an Eating Disorders Resource Guide, go to this link.

One thing in the print article that didn’t make it to the online addition is the following:

Warning Signs for Moms about Eating Disorders:

If you recognize yourself in some of these traits and behaviors, see a doctor. You may not have a full-blown eating disorder, but you may be at risk for developing one. And the earlier you get treatment, the better it will be for you and your family.

#1: You’re a high achiever and a perfectionist.

#2: You’re overly controlling about the way your kids play and eat.

#3: You can’t stop obsessing about food–and this interferes with how much you can enjoy your family.

#4: You have low self-esteem, putting yourself down for being “too fat,” and feel guilty for not living up to your high standards.

#5: You keep an extensive diary, complete with detailed lists of calories and fat consumed, the amount you’ve exercised, or the number of times you’ve purged.

#6: You have unusual food rituals–you shift the food around your plate to make it look as if you’ve eaten it, say–and try to avoid eating in front of your school-age kids or other adults.

#7: You’re secretive or vague about what you eat when asked.

#8: You dress in baggy clothes to hide your body.

Be well!