Anorexia & Slow Metabolism

Anorexia is a type of eating disorder characterized by severely restricted food resulting in extreme weight loss, slow metabolism and fatigue. It affects approximately 0.6 percent of the U.S. population, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Signs of anorexia include food restriction or binge eating, a distorted body image and fear of being overweight

Definitions

Anorexia is primarily a psychiatric disorder defined by an inability to maintain a healthy body weight. Although anorexia occurs in males, it's more common in females and the average age of onset is approximately 19 years, says the National Institute of Mental Health. Because it's a chronic condition, anorexia can require years of therapy that includes psychiatric treatment and re-education about healthy eating.

Physical Symptoms

Weight loss and slow metabolism are common physical symptoms in anorexia. Extremely low calorie intake results in slow metabolism and exhaustion. In women, anorexia can also result in loss of a menstrual cycle. Further physical manifestations of anorexia include muscle wasting, poor concentration and abdominal pain. Clinical symptoms can include nutrient deficiencies, loss of bone density, low blood pressure and electrolyte abnormalities.

Behavioral Symptoms

Secrecy about anorectic symptoms is common, and simply encouraging weight gain can result in severe anxiety. Personality characteristics of anorexia include perfectionism, manipulation, power issues and obsessive-compulsive behaviors. Refusal to acknowledge the seriousness of the illness is common among anorexic patients, which often delays treatment.

Nutritional Treatment

Nutritional goals and treatment are highly individualized according to each patient. The general aim is to restore a healthy weight, correct nutrient deficiencies and establish normal eating patterns. Under careful supervision of a medical team, nutritional treatment of anorexia can include a re-feeding program, which involves a gradual increase in daily calories to restore weight to normal. A weight gain goal of 0.5 to 1 lb. per week is desirable, according to the "Journal of the American Dietetic Association."

Considerations

In addition to psychological and nutritional treatment, medications may also be needed to support heart, fluid and electrolytes. Because all cases are unique, it's crucial to speak with your doctor, therapist and a registered dietitian specializing in eating disorders to provide appropriate guidance for treatment of anorexia.