Feeding disorders can be either a child failing to thrive through lack of nutrition or becoming obese from from eating too much. The causes of these disorders may be either physical or emotional.

Failing to thrive - these feeding disorders may be evident by babies or children refusing food, vomiting or failing to gain weight as expected. The children may be "fussy" eaters - typically they will have a limited variety of acceptable foods.

Dr Rundle is familiar with eating disorders and may be able to identify the likely cause. Where it is a physical condition, she will be able to advise on further investigations where necessary. Possible causes could be allergy to certain foods, infection of the gut or other physical conditions.

Dr Rundle treats feeding and eating disorders which have a behavioural cause. These are often related to frequent crying in babies, or attention-seeking in toddlers. It is important to establish a good feeding routine at an early age as this is comforting for both the parent and the child, and is less likely to lead to more severe eating disorders in teenagers.

Overweight - some children may overeat and become obese. This may lead to poor health later on in life, and leads to poor self esteem as overweight children tend to be teased at school and elsewhere. They find physical activities tiring and have difficulty finding suitable clothing. Persistent obesity may lead to an increased risk of diabetes, heart disease and strokes in later adult life.

Dr Rundle will discuss a suitable healthy diet with both child and parent and encourage a regime of increased physical activity.