Eating disorders are characterized by disturbances in eating behaviors, which include restricting food intake, binges and purges, and compulsive overeating. Most people with eating disorders have an extreme preoccupation with weight, body size and body shape. The National Eating Disorders Association says 10 million women and 1 million men have an eating disorder. Treatment can be difficult and frustrating, and many people will need to restore weight to recover.
Step 1
Schedule an appointment with a doctor who specializes in eating disorders. Gaining weight after an eating disorder can result in refeeding syndrome, which can lead to electrolyte disturbance, neurological disturbances, pulmonary disturbances and cardiac problems.
Step 2
Set a realistic time frame to reach a desired goal weight.
Step 3
Consult a dietitian to develop a meal plan. Most people with eating disorders have no idea what constitutes normal, healthy eating. A person may need a dietitian for support through the difficult process of weight restoration.
Step 4
Eat a balanced diet. Work with the dietitian to come up with foods that do not cause fear or anxiety, but that meet appropriate daily caloric needs.
Step 5
Write down the foods you eat in a daily food diary to share with your dietitian and medical doctor. A food diary allows the doctor and dietitian to accurately assess where the patient may be deficient in calories, and whether or not he needs extra support.
Step 6
Process feelings related to weight fluctuations and the eating disorder with a psychotherapist who specializes in eating disorders to prevent relapse.
Step 7
Use alternative coping mechanisms, such as relaxation, meditation or journaling to reduce anxiety after eating.
Step 8
Exercise according to doctor's orders. A patient in the early stages of recovery may not be allowed to exercise because he is medically unstable. A medical doctor will tell a patient when it is safe for him to exercise.
Tips and Warnings
- Avoid weighing in every day. Weight should be checked at a doctor's office. Some patients with eating disorders are not allowed to know how much weight has been gained. This is done to reduce anxiety and prevent relapse. Support groups can be useful during the early stages of recovery. Connecting with other people who understand eating disorder recovery can optimize success.
- A person with an eating disorder should be under the medical supervision of a doctor. Eating disorders can be life-threatening, and appropriate supervision is necessary to prevent complications.
Things You'll Need
- Doctor
- Dietitian
- Psychotherapist
- Food journal
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