Read more about the article Understanding Childhood Obesity and Weight Stigma: Breaking Down Barriers for Better Health

Understanding Childhood Obesity and Weight Stigma: Breaking Down Barriers for Better Health

At  (CHEAR), we are deeply committed to helping children and their families navigate the complex journey of managing obesity in children. It’s a conversation many of us might shy away from, but it’s one we need to have—because the more we understand about obesity in children and the stigma that often accompanies it, the better we can support our kids. Childhood obesity is not just a physical issue; it’s intertwined with emotional well-being, mental health, and societal perceptions. In this post, we’ll break down the complexities of obesity in children, dive into the damaging effects of weight stigma, and highlight why early intervention is crucial. We’ll also explore treatment options that work and how we can create a more supportive, stigma-free environment for children. Pediatric Obesity – More Than Just Weight Understanding Pediatric Obesity Pediatric obesity is often misunderstood. It’s not simply about a child carrying a few extra pounds; it’s a chronic condition that can deeply affect a child’s overall well-being. At , we recognize that this condition, like other chronic illnesses, requires thoughtful,…

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Read more about the article Binge Eating Disorder (BED) vs. Overeating, Emotional Eating, and Eating in the Absence of Hunger (EAH)

Binge Eating Disorder (BED) vs. Overeating, Emotional Eating, and Eating in the Absence of Hunger (EAH)

We’ve all been there—reaching for that extra slice of pizza or digging into ice cream after a rough day. Food isn’t just about nourishment; it’s deeply tied to our emotions, social activities, and even our sense of comfort. But when does eating go from being a normal part of life to something that can impact our health? There are multiple different types of uncontrolled eating that can happen when you are not physically hungry, including binge eating, overeating, emotional eating, or eating in response to cues, understanding the differences can help you regain control over your eating habits and overall well-being. At CHEAR, one of our approaches to treating unhealthy eating behaviors is called Regulation of Cues (ROC). ROC helps people reconnect with their body’s natural hunger and fullness signals—guiding them to trust and regulate their internal cues, rather than letting emotions or external triggers dictate their eating patterns. Let’s explore these different types of eating, and how ROC can make a difference in addressing them. Understanding Eating Habits Eating habits are a tapestry woven…

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Read more about the article Using Exposure Therapy to Help Manage Binge Eating Disorder (BED) and Overeating

Using Exposure Therapy to Help Manage Binge Eating Disorder (BED) and Overeating

At the UC San Diego Center for Healthy Eating and Activity Research (CHEAR), we employ a variety of therapeutic interventions to help individuals reduce binge eating and overeating. Among these methods, exposure therapy is a key approach that targets both the physiological sensations and cognitive experiences associated with highly craved foods. A mental health professional guides the exposure therapy process, ensuring it is conducted correctly and providing a supportive environment for patients as they confront their fears. What is Exposure Therapy? Exposure therapy is a well-established treatment method used to address anxiety, phobias, and eating disorders. The core principle of exposure therapy is to help individuals confront and reduce their unwanted responses to specific stimuli by gradually exposing them to these triggers in a controlled and safe environment. For instance, if someone has a fear of spiders, a clinician might begin by showing them pictures of spiders, then move on to videos, and eventually have them observe a real spider. This gradual exposure helps the individual become desensitized to the fear-inducing stimulus, reducing their anxiety…

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Read more about the article Navigating the Challenges of Returning to School for Children and Adolescents with Overeating or Binge Eating Disorders

Navigating the Challenges of Returning to School for Children and Adolescents with Overeating or Binge Eating Disorders

Returning to school can be a challenging experience for children and adolescents with overeating or binge eating disorders. The school environment, with its academic pressures, social dynamics, and other social factors, often exacerbates the struggles faced by these young individuals. Understanding these challenges and providing supportive strategies is crucial for students, parents, and educators to foster a healthy and nurturing school experience. Let’s look at some of the challenges and solutions. Understanding the Challenges Social Stigma: Weight Bias and Bullying One of the primary challenges is the social stigma associated with overeating or binge eating disorders. Teens may experience weight bias, where they are judged or discriminated against based on their weight, leading to bullying, teasing, or exclusion by peers. Such negative experiences can intensify feelings of shame, guilt, and low self-esteem. Misunderstanding and Judgment There is often a lack of understanding about binge eating disorder, leading to misconceptions. Peers and even adults might mistakenly view the condition as a lack of willpower or self-control rather than recognizing it as one of the many serious…

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Read more about the article Summer Health Tips: Staying Healthy Over Summer Break with Balanced Diet and Exercise

Summer Health Tips: Staying Healthy Over Summer Break with Balanced Diet and Exercise

Ah, summer break! It’s a time for relaxation, fun, and a well-deserved break from school routines. But with this break can come a few challenges, especially when it comes to staying healthy. Without the structured schedule of school days, it’s easy to find ourselves slipping into habits like snacking a bit too often, lounging around more than moving, or getting tempted by all those tasty (but not always healthy) treats. But here’s the good news! Summer also offers a fantastic opportunity to focus on maintaining a balanced diet and getting plenty of exercise—without the rush and strict timetables of the school year. It’s the perfect time to explore new activities and foods that keep us feeling great. Achieving a healthy summer is all about embracing these opportunities to stay physically fit and mentally strong, ensuring our well-being throughout the vibrant season. At the Center for Healthy Eating and Activity Research (CHEAR), we recognize that family involvement is crucial in the treatment of overweight and obesity. Our approach is built on the understanding that sustainable health…

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