Force-feeding is child abuse

Dear Dr. Gott: I have an 11-year-old granddaughter whose parents force her to eat everything on her plate, which on many occasions is the same amount that I could eat. Although she insists she is full and doesn’t even want dessert, they make her eat everything on her plate.

Also, there are some green vegetables that she does like. However, if they serve one that she doesn’t like, they will not substitute but insist she eat the one being served.

My question is, could there be any psychological damage as a result of this force-feeding?

Dear Reader: This pattern of force-feeding constitutes child abuse. The child should be served food in more appropriate amounts.

No child should be forced to consume more food when she is satiated. Show my response to your granddaughter’s parents, who need to modify their approach and expectations.

If not, contact the child’s pediatrician, who can recommend the next step.

Dear Dr. Gott: I sure hope you can help me.

Last week, I ordered a submarine sandwich with the works. I opened my mouth real wide to bite into it, and my left jaw popped or clicked.

There is no pain, but each time I open my mouth, I can hear the click.

My dentist said to eat soft food, and my primary doctor said he doesn’t know.

It is very annoying. Please help me, Dr. Gott.

Dear Reader: From your description, I believe that you suffered from a dislocation of your tempero-mandibular joint. You’re not in pain, so simply disregard the “click” and give your jaw a chance to heal.

If you’re still bothered after a couple of months, see an oral surgeon. And, for heaven’s sake, avoid fat sandwiches.

Dear Dr. Gott: I am writing out of deep concern and am very mixed up. Can you put my mind at rest.

It’s all about the 16 medications I am on.

I know all pills have chemicals in them. I just wondered, if a body is on these medications for years to cover up pain (which I am still having in my leg and buttocks from my sciatic nerve) or other normal routines of the body, how is it supposed to get a message to the brain to take care of itself and function as a normal body without medications?

Can a body become immune to these chemicals after years of absorbing them, and how long would it take? Can they cause dizziness and lightheadedness, or is it a reaction between the pills?

I am very sleepy and am getting upset about it all.

Dear Reader: Your list of prescription drugs is astounding. You are a splendid example of overmedication – yet another patient who probably could do with fewer drugs.

Doctors who overprescribe have no way of knowing how these compounds interact and what harm such interactions can produce. I urge you to meet with your physician for the purpose of reducing your meds.

If he or she is not inclined to do so, request a referral to an internist. Aside from the striking cost of 16 drugs, you are at high risk for dangerous drug reactions.

To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my health report “Consumer Tips on Medicine.” Other readers who would like a copy should send a long, self-addressed, stamped envelope and $2 to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.