Adequate nutritional intake is a crucial factor for sustained growth and immune system function, and can play a crucial role in recovery from illness and disease, including anorexia nervosa. Nutritionists are best placed to offer dietary advice in this regard, and will design a program to follow to maximise recuperation and healing.
What is Anorexia Nervosa?
Anorexia nervosa is a serious psychological condition that manifests itself as an eating disorder. It is most commonly observed in adolescent girls though can affect any sex, with recent research indicating that it often persists into adulthood. Though there is no definitive cause for anorexia, hereditary factors, childhood trauma and social pressure to be thin have all been recorded as possible triggers. Diagnosis is typically made by a GP who may test for anaemia, heart function; as well as bone density for osteoporosis. Traditional treatment options include hospitalisation (severe cases), talking therapy/psychotherapy (counselling, psychologists) and professional nutritional advice amd counselling. In serious cases depression and anxiety may lead to suicidal tendencies in a sufferer, which typically needs to be treated and monitored in a health care facility.
Anorexia Symptoms
The most obvious symptom of anorexia is a significant drop in body weight. Other physical symptoms that may be observed in sufferer’s include:
- An absence of the menstrual cycle
- Bloated stomach
- Fatigue and constant tiredness
- Irregular heart beat
- Low blood pressure
- Osteoporosis; and
- Thinning hair and dry skin
Typical psychological or behavioural symptoms are also common, and can include any of the following:
- Compulsive exercising
- Depression
- Distorted body image
- Obsession with food
- Poor memory
- Refusal to acknowledge there is a problem; and
- Refusal to eat
Nutrition for Anorexia Nervosa
Nutrition and nutritional counselling is an integral part of dealing with any convalescence or recovery from illness, but is even more crucial when dealing with anorexia nervosa. Patients are typically given advice to gradually increase their dietary intake. A nutritionist will typically conduct an initial dietary assessment of a patient, and help the person follow meal plans. Some common dietary suggestions might include the following:
Daily multivitamins containing antioxidants, including a selection of vitamins (A, C, E, the B-vitamins) as well as minerals, such as calcium, copper, magnesium, phosphorus, selenium and zinc, Omega-3 fatty acids, either in capsule form or from fish such as salmon or halibut, for enhanced immunity.
Find out about other natural treatments for anorexia nervosa.
Originally published on Aug 30, 2010
