Dietary habits and eating disorders in children and adolescents: Current insights and public health challenges

Eating habits of children and adolescents are shaped under the strong influence of family, school, peers, and the media, especially social networks. The aim of this paper is to provide insight into eating patterns and eating disorders with an emphasis on the role of the social environment, as well as to highlight the public health challenges associated with these phenomena. Proper nutrition during childhood and adolescence is crucial for physical and mental health, while disorders such as anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating increasingly reflect unbalanced patterns and negative social pressures. They are closely related to emotional difficulties and body dissatisfaction. In conclusion, the importance of early prevention, the development of a critical attitude toward media content, and the cooperation of different sectors in protecting the health of children and adolescents is emphasized.