Eating disorders are common in children and adolescents, the two most common being anorexia and bulimia. Anorexia is characterized by a lack of body mass, excessive fear of gaining weight, body image disturbance, and low self-esteem. Bulimia involves repeated episodes of binge eating followed by attempts to eliminate food from the body, usually by vomiting or using laxatives. Both disorders can lead to serious physical and emotional problems. The causes of anorexia and bulimia are complex and include biological, psychological, and social factors. Children and adolescents who are prone to eating disorders often have low self-esteem, difficulties in controlling emotions, difficulty setting boundaries, and may be prone to perfectionism. The diagnosis is made by examining the mental and physical condition, a detailed medical history and insight into the child's eating habits and behavior, as well as various evaluation questionnaires. Treatment is based on psychotherapy, medical monitoring, nutrition and hydration management, and restoring body weight to a normal level. Prevention of eating disorders involves promoting a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular physical activity, and promoting positive body self-esteem. It is also important to educate parents, teachers, and others who work with children about early diagnosis and treatment of eating disorders and about healthy approaches to eating and body image.