Aoife Hearne: How do I talk to my teen about her weight gain and snacking habits?

If you have ongoing concerns, particularly if eating patterns become more restrictive or distress increases, be sure to seek advice from your GP and registered dietitian. Picture: iStock 

My teenager has put on quite a bit of weight in the past year. She snacks a lot on junk food when she’s out with friends and only picks at her food when at home. Sometimes she skips meals, saying she’s not hungry. When I’ve tried to talk to her about the importance of a healthy diet, she just shrugs. I can see she’s very self-conscious.

There is no doubt that you are dealing with a delicate situation. The approach you take and the language you use can shape how your daughter responds, so you are wise to consider your approach before jumping in.