Loss‐of‐control eating in children and adolescents with overweight/obesity

By now, most health care providers are aware that pediatric obesity is a major public health concern. Nearly 20% of American children and adolescents have overweight or obesity, meaning that their body mass index (BMI; kg/m2) is at or above the 85th percentile for age and sex. While there are many genetic and environmental factors that contribute to obesity, problematic eating behaviors play a role in its onset and/or maintenance for many children and adolescents. Since youth with obesity often struggle with body dissatisfaction and shape‐ or weight‐related concerns, disordered eating behaviors are fairly prevalent in this population — about two to three times higher than what is reported by similar‐aged youth who are not in the overweight/obese range.