Fearing certain foods
Many struggling with anorexia create their own idea of “safe” foods, which are usually low in calories. You may exclusively eat these foods, which can create a sense of fear around “unsafe” foods. You may feel fearful of eating food of which you don’t know the nutritional information. Your dietitian can help you navigate these fears and relearn how to trust yourself to make good food decisions.
Skipping meals & avoiding situations with food
Since anorexia revolves around food restriction, you may find yourself skipping meals and avoiding food-driven situations altogether. This can lead to isolation and withdrawal, which has compounding effects on both physical and mental health. It’s vital not just to recover to adequate levels of nourishment but also to engage socially. Living life without eating around others is not realistic (or healthy!) and it’s important to find ways to reconnect over food.
Deteriorating health
Anorexia can take a drastic toll on your health. Many struggle with heart conditions, poor body temperature regulation, mood disorders, bone loss, and more. Because you’re not nourishing your body sufficiently, you are at higher risk for general illness as well as chronic conditions. Prioritizing recovery is the best thing you can do for your health in both the immediate and the long-term.
Abusing hunger suppression tools
To suppress hunger and lose weight, you may turn to nicotine, caffeine, diet pills, and/or laxatives. All of these can have a negative effect on your overall health, impacting your lungs, digestive system, and mental wellbeing. Your dietitian and broader care team can help you get the support you need to quit these habits and relearn your hunger cues.