#53: Body Image, Food Narratives and Eating Disorders in Kids with Dr Anna Colton

Do mealtimes and discussions around your child's body image leave you feel stressed and frazzled?

In this episode of Hello Therapy, I am joined by Clinical Psychologist and author, Dr Anna Colton as we discuss how parents can foster healthy attitudes towards food and body image in their children. 

Anna shares practical tips on spotting early signs of eating disorders and managing weight and body image concerns. We also explore societal pressures, the impact of diet culture, and strategies for making mealtimes positive. Join us for actionable advice to support your child's mental and physical well-being.

*Watch an exclusive never heard before mini interview of this episode HERE*

*Read the Blog HERE*

Highlights include:
03:46 Addressing Children's Concerns About Body Image
06:52 Understanding Diet Culture and Its Impact
08:16 Promoting Healthy Eating Habits
10:40 Unhelpful Messages Around Food and Body Image
18:30 Challenges with School's Approach to Food Education
21:09 Addressing Parental Body Image Concerns
22:46 Practical Tips for Parents
25:10 Making Veggies Fun for Kids
27:29 Spotting Eating Disorders in Teens
31:21 Gym Culture and Its Impact on Teens
35:40 Key Takeaways for Parents

This week's guest
Dr Anna Colton is a clinical psychologist and has specialised in eating disorders and adolescence for over 20 years. She spent 10 years in the NHS, working at Great Ormond Street Hospital and in other eating disorder services and units, before moving to private practice. 

Anna is a huge believer in prevention where possible and otherwise in early intervention. In addition to her eating disorder and adolescent specialties, she now has a diverse range of niches which include media work, both on screen and radio as an ‘expert’ and behind the scenes assessing and supporting contributors in reality TV shows and documentaries; working in the West End with 'child stars’, and adults with stage fright and performance issues and with barristers and the Bar more widely.

Follow Anna:
@drannacolton

Buy her book, How to Talk to Children About Food:

UK/e-book,Kindle 

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The Hello Therapy podcast and the information provided by Dr Liz White (DClinPsy, CPsychol, AFBPsS, CSci, HCPC reg.), is solely intended for informational and educational purposes and does not constitute personalised advice. Please reach out to your GP or a mental health professional if you need support.