I've just spent the weekend with an old friend and am a bit concerned about her DD10. I've known her since she was born and recently had her stay for a couple of nights in the holidays. She is a lovely girl, who has always been incredibly active. She's very sporty and represents her school in several disciplines. She is also tall and thin for her age, just like her mum was at the same age (I was at school with her mum).
When friends DD came recently she had a really good appetite and although slightly fussy happily ate everything on her plate. This last weekend however I noticed a big change. She only ate a small amount before asking to get down. I was surprised as roast chicken has always been her favourite IYSWIM. I also heard her asking her DF if she would get fat? I don't think she finished a meal all weekend. Although she did complain of being hungry when we were out once and was happy for me to buy her an ice cream or two!
It just seemed to me that she is becoming very conscious of what she is eating and not knowing how to go about it? I'm very prepared to be told that she is just being fussy and not eating meals because she wants to fill up on snacks and rubbish but it seemed out of character.
I don't want to worry my friend unnecessarily, as she is struggling with her MH after a really tricky year. I also think all the upheaval in the last year (friends DD is now on her 3rd school in 2 years) might have had adverse effect and make my friend less able to recognise a problem.
I'm afraid I don't know much about the eating habits of tweens, or how eating disorders start? But can anyone suggest what to look for? Or how to bring this up with my friend?