Episode 12: Spotting the Signs – A Pediatrician’s Frontline Role in Eating Disorders

🎧 Episode 12: Spotting the Signs – A Pediatrician’s Frontline Role in Eating Disorders

Guest: Dr. Gretchen Hoyle, MD, Pediatrician
Host: Matt Butterman
Duration: 30–40 minutes

Eating disorders often begin quietly—but their impact is serious and, in some cases, life-threatening. In this episode, host Matt Butterman speaks with returning guest Dr. Gretchen Hoyle about how pediatricians play a critical role in identifying eating disorders early and helping families take action before things become more severe.

While Dr. Hoyle is not an eating disorder specialist, her position on the front lines of pediatric care means she’s often the first professional to spot concerning patterns and refer families to appropriate treatment.

In this episode, we cover:

• 🚩 How eating disorders present in a primary care setting

  
  

• 🧠 The importance of early detection and trust in the pediatrician-family relationship

  
  

• ⚠️ Medical red flags that may signal the need for hospitalization (low heart rate, blood pressure, body temp, weight %iles, lab values, etc.)

  
  

• 🏥 What “refeeding syndrome” is and why it can be life-threatening

  
  

• 🏡 The difference between residential and outpatient care—and how treatment decisions are made

  
  

• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 The role of the care team: doctor, therapist, and nutritionist

  
  

• 💊 Medications sometimes used in treatment (SSRIs, hydroxyzine)

  
  

• 📈 What recovery looks like—and why early action matters

  
  

• 💬 Advice for parents who are worried about their child’s eating or behavior around food

Dr. Hoyle reminds us that families don’t need to have all the answers to take the first step. If you're concerned, bring it up with your pediatrician—it’s never too early to start asking questions.

Key Quotes:

“Most of the time, it starts when a parent says, ‘Something’s not right.’ They may not be able to name it—but they know.” — Dr. Gretchen Hoyle

“Recovery isn’t just about weight—it’s about mindset, function, and emotional health.” — Dr. Hoyle

Resources & Links:

• National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA)
  
  
• Veritas Collaborative – Residential and outpatient treatment programs

  
  

• The JAMA Pediatrics Study on ED Hospitalizations Post-COVID

  
  

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