Anorexia Nervosa Treatment, Beyond the Diet

The self-starvation that is a hallmark of anorexia nervosa is caused by a complex psychiatric disorder that afflicts mostly adolescent or young adult females. The cause of anorexia is unknown. Researchers believe that a combination of hormonal, social, and psychological factors are responsible. The disease often begins in adolescence, a time of tremendous hormonal and psychological change. The behavior is marked by obsessive or strict dieting and exercise, preoccupation with food, and self-induced vomiting or use of laxatives.

As the disease progresses, menstruation ceases and nutritional deficiencies develop. Physical indications of anorexia include fatigue, nervousness or hyperactivity, dry skin, hair loss, and intolerance to cold. More serious consequences include cardiac arrhythmias, loss of bone mass, kidney failure, and in about 5 to 10% of cases, death in the first 10 years of contracting the disease.

Anorexia often requires intensive long-term treatment, preferably by a team experienced with eating disorders: a doctor to treat starvation-induced medical problems, a psychiatrist, and a dietitian. Family members can also benefit from counseling.

The biggest hurdle for someone with anorexia is to overcome an abnormal fear of food and a distorted self-image of being fat. To that end, these are the steps to achieving a stable weight: Think small, then gradually increase food intake. In the beginning, small portions of nutritious and easily digestible foods are best. Portion sizes and the variety of foods are increased gradually to achieve a steady weight gain.

Replace lost nutrition. A doctor or a dietitian can help formulate a balanced, varied diet that provides adequate protein for rebuilding lost lean tissue, complex carbohydrates for energy, and a moderate amount of fat for extra calories. Good foods include eggs, milk and other dairy products, meat, fish, poultry, and whole grains. Extra calcium and multivitamins may also be given.

Monitor food intake closely. Relapses are common and close monitoring may be necessary to ensure that the person with anorexia is really eating. But avoid making food a constant source of attention and conflict.

Beyond the Diet
-Seek support. Talk therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, group therapy, or family therapy can help. Support groups can also aid in treatment.
-Consider medication. Doctors may prescribe antidepressants, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers as part of a treatment program.

QUICK TIP:
-Have a lemon drop before a meal
-Sour foods increase saliva flow, which helps stimulate appetite.