Children's Health / 16 June, 2026 / Ellie Thompson
Body image worries are starting younger. Diet culture may have changed its clothes, but it certainly hasn’t gone away — it’s simply rebranded as wellness, self-improvement and “health optimisation,” all while our children scroll through TikTok, influencers and impossible appearance standards in real time.
In this episode of Parental Control, Ellie Thompson is joined by Elle Mace, eating disorder expert, coach, author of the upcoming book Food Freedom, and someone whose own struggles with body image and disordered eating began at just 10 years old.
Together, they explore the early warning signs parents may miss, how to tell the difference between normal food fussiness and something more concerning, the everyday language around food and bodies that can accidentally cause harm, and what today’s obsession with wellness, weight-loss drugs, and appearance culture is doing to young minds.
A thoughtful, honest and hugely important conversation for any parent raising children in a world obsessed with bodies.
Elle Mace is an experienced Author and expert in eating disorders, obesity, and nutrition. As a Practitioner, CPD Trainer, Facilitator, Level 5 ILM coach and mentor she incorporates CBT, NLP, Positive Psychology and Hypnosis showing her commitment to continuous learning and development.
Using her qualifications and blending her work with a passion for positive psychology and neuroscience, Elle shares her expertise with clients, businesses, retreats, and training courses. Her journey wasn’t easy, dealing with eating disorders and body dysmorphia for 17 years, but she came out strong, armed with newfound strength and knowledge, transforming her life into something healthier, fulfilled, and purposeful.
Qualified and running her own practice, Elle works with individual clients, groups, retreats, and businesses. She also trains the next generation of fitness and sports professionals as a CPD trainer.
She is currently studying to be a Counsellor and Psychotherapist.
Instagram: @iamellemace
Food Freedom is available from 27th August at £14.99 via major retailers including Penguin, Amazon and Waterstones.
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tickit SiliSoft Jumbo Spinner is a perfect first fidget toy, and ideal for sensory playtime. The giant chunky silicone spinner features three colourful giant popping buttons and tactile features. It’s easy to operate, and the spinning action is smooth, fast and mesmerising. The suction base easily attaches to smooth, clean surfaces. Suitable from newborn, it’s great value for money at £7.99. Available in two colourways: Rainbow and Earth.
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