Anorexia Nervosa

Common Behaviors and Symptoms

Individuals with anorexia may exhibit the following behaviors and symptoms:

• Restriction of food intake leading to significant weight loss
• Intense fear of gaining weight or becoming fat, even when underweight
• Distorted perception of body weight or shape
• Denial of the severity of low body weight
• Excessive exercise
• Preoccupation with food, dieting, and body image
• Avoidance of meals or eating in front of others

Symptoms of Anorexia Nervosa

The following symptoms can indicate the need for professional eating disorder treatment for anorexia:

• Severe weight loss
• Fatigue and weakness
• Dizziness or fainting
• Brittle nails and thinning hair
• Amenorrhea (loss of menstrual periods) in females
• Intolerance to cold
• Low blood pressure
• Dehydration
• Osteoporosis (thinning of bones)
• Social withdrawal and isolation

Anorexia in Different Populations

While anorexia is often associated with adolescents and young adults, it can affect individuals of any age, gender, or background. Research indicates that approximately 0.9% of women and 0.3% of men will develop anorexia at some point in their lives. It frequently co-occurs with other mental health conditions such as anxiety disorders, depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

How is Anorexia Nervosa Diagnosed?

According to DSM-5, the diagnostic criteria for anorexia include:

• Restriction of energy intake relative to requirements, leading to significantly low body weight
• Intense fear of gaining weight or becoming fat, even when underweight
• Disturbance in the way one’s body weight or shape is experienced, undue influence of body weight or shape on self-evaluation, or persistent lack of recognition of the seriousness of the current low body weight

Anorexia’s Relationship to Other Eating Disorders

Anorexia is distinct from other eating disorders like Bulimia Nervosa and Binge Eating Disorder. However, it shares some common features, such as preoccupation with food and body image. Individuals with anorexia typically have a distorted body image and a strong desire to change their body. Contrary to popular belief, Anorexia can present as a fixation on weight loss or as a desire for a particular aesthetic. This can be heavily influenced by gender expression.

Anorexia Health Risks

Anorexia can lead to numerous serious health risks, including:

• Severe malnutrition
• Heart problems, such as arrhythmias or heart failure
• Bone density loss (osteoporosis)
• Muscle wasting and weakness
• Infertility
• Kidney failure
• Electrolyte imbalances
• Gastrointestinal issues
• Increased risk of suicide

Nurtured Nutrition’s Approach to Anorexia Care

At Nurtured Nutrition, we provide specialized care for individuals with anorexia, leveraging our extensive experience and a holistic approach to treatment.

• Role in the Care Team: We work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team, including a therapist, psychiatrist, and primary care physician (PCP).
• Specialized Nutrition Counseling: Our comprehensive approach includes:
  • Nutritional Rehabilitation: Developing meal plans that ensure balanced nutrition and gradual weight restoration.
  • Nutritional Education: Educating individuals on forming positive thoughts and behaviors related to food and body image.
  • Family Involvement: Encouraging family participation in the treatment process to provide support and create a healthy home environment.
  • Mindful Eating Practices: Teaching individuals to develop a healthy relationship with food and their bodies.

If additional support is needed, we can facilitate referrals to other experienced providers, ensuring a comprehensive care approach.

Insurance and Coverage

Nurtured Nutrition is in-network with most common insurance providers in the area, allowing for accessible and cost-effective options. Click here for a list of accepted insurances

Regain Control with Nurtured Nutrition

If you or a loved one is struggling with anorexia, we are here to help. Contact us at (508) 688-4794 to speak with a specialist or complete the form on our website to start your journey to recovery.

At Nurtured Nutrition, our team of dietitians and nutritionists is dedicated to helping individuals with eating disorders like anorexia. Our expertise in providing tailored nutritional counseling and support ensures that you receive the best possible care for your recovery journey.