Eating disorders striking as young as nine

While parents might expect counselling to be the first step for treatment, Dr Harlina (right) explains that the first priority is to ensure the child is medically stable. — GLENN GUAN/The Star

It often begins with what appears to be healthy eating – avoiding certain foods, counting calories or becoming increasingly restrictive with food choices.

In some children, these behaviours may be early warning signs of an eating disorder.