January brings a familiar flood of “New Year, New You” messaging – filled with detoxes, cleanses, and weight-loss trends that dominate social media feeds.
For children, teens, and young adults, these messages are not neutral. Algorithms are highly targeted and relentless, and for those who are biologically or temperamentally vulnerable, or already struggling with eating behaviors, this content can be especially harmful.
What’s often missing from the conversation is the role parents play. The goal is not as perfect protectors, but as aware, thoughtful models.
Dr. Allison Chase shares simple ways parents can talk with kids about diet culture without fear or shame and how to recognize when “New Year” behaviors may signal a more serious concern, like an emerging eating disorder.
Confidence creates change—and it starts with awareness.