Im 5'5" and weigh 76lbs. I was anorexic but Im recovering. I need help handling gaining weight. suggestions?

Question

For the last year, I've had a lot going on in my life. I started this eating disorder as a way of coping. Im trying to recover now, but it's so hard to handle gaining weight. Can anyone help, relate, or have suggestions?

For over a year, ive been going through a lot and used anorexia as a way of coping. Im beginning to recover but find it extremely difficult to mentally handle gaining weight. It's like I want to get better, but can't stand to see the numbers go up. Does anyone have any advice, suggestions, or can relate to what Im going through?

Im 14 by the way

any advice on how to mentally handle this would be really appreciated

Answer 1

i weigh the same but you're like half a foot taller. i would just say to eat whatever u feel like eating.. dont restrict yourself from anything but remember to keep it healthy. PLZ dont take the advice of those saying u must eat tons of junk food and not execize because it makes your situation worse. if u do, you'll regret it later on. trust me im going to thru the same thing and its working for me. good luck and i hope u recover. =)

Answer 2

First things first - you have identified the route of your problem was a way of coping! Great start. Has the "problem" been resolved? Because if it hasn't you will end up in the same place!

You need to find something that is going to take up your time - a hobby or a sport - don't overdo it - even good things can be bad for you if you over do it!

Find a support network - going it alone is difficult! Talk to your Doctor - Counsellor. A professional is the best way to go!

Don't go in and eat all the junk food money can buy - eat healthy and sensibly - listen to your body!

Xx

Answer 3

Hi, sweetheart. I really give you huge props for deciding to face this head on. I send you all sorts of strength in your battle. How brave of you and your family and friends must feel the same.
Now, as I have struggled with weight gain before, for the same reason at one point, and a different at another - I drank a lot of BOOST. It is a high calorie protein drink. (if you are not lactose intolerant) - this will work well for you. They are easy for anorexia survivors because it is in drink form. You can drink at least 4 of them a day in between whatever you eat and you will start to feel better. If you are lactose intolerant, you can try drinks like verry vanilla or chocolate soydream or soy milk - they are high protein drinks and high calorie as well. You can find them in the vegetarian or organic section of the grocery store. Oh, the BOOST drinks are most likely going to be in the health (sports health) section of the store. They are kind of expensive, so if you can find a place like Walmart or other to purchase from, you should do great. I really really encourage you to keep this up and I'm glad you've made such a huge step, I know it is hard but hang in there and again I send you tons of strength and respect.
-laura

Answer 4

That's great that you're recovering and reaching out for help. I hope you feel better soon.

This is for everybody answering this as well -- lack of appetite and avoiding eating can be a symptom of celiac disease, here's a link on it just in case it seems to fit for somebody.

http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/celiac/

I have celiac and ended up losing my appetite at one point. I was shocked at how, at 34 years old, I all of a sudden completely identified with magazine articles about anorexia. I couldn't stand to eat. The whole process just grossed me out. After I was diagnosed and my body began to heal, I got my appetite back.

Celiac isn't always the cause of anorexia. It's a much more complicated thing than that. But I wanted to mention it just in case it made sense for anyone.

Hope you feel better soon.

Take care,

Nancy

Answer 5

I know how it is too be small and unable to gain weight. No skipping meals, need balance with more frequent meals and add protein to your diet during the day. I had shakes in the morning with yogurt, whey powder, bananas, and malt syrup found in health food store. This is such a great tasting shake you can add ice too or whatever fruit you like to mix. Drink plenty of water and get plenty of exercise. Before doing any of this I'd let your doctor know what your interested in doing.

Answer 6

My best advice is have a bowl of cereal, a fruit ( such as an apple or orange), and a peice of whole grain toast for breakfast. And a Healthy Choice T.V Dinner for dinner and lunch for about a month. It helped me gain weight after a battle with anorexia. GOOD LUCK!!!!!!!!

Answer 7

Try a very light weight lifting routine. Then the weight you gain will be firm muscle tissue and you will feel good about your body image. You will also reap the benefits of mood lifting endorphins that your body will produce as a result of the exercise. Just lifting while watching the tube will help. I hope you get to feeling better.

Answer 8

You want healthy calories to rebuild your nutrient stores. Have 5 smaller meals with a little larger portions.

Don't load up on fat, but add a little extra fat (butter, cheese) to bread or veggies.

Buy Slim Fast or other meal replacement shake and drink 2 a day for snacks.

You'll regain about 2-3 lb a week this way. Good luck. /hug/

Answer 9

I would go see a nutritionist. Talk to you parents let them know you are confessed and you are not sure what to eat. Tell them you want to be well but that you need help. A nutritionist will help you gain weight by eating healthy foods.

Answer 10

=) Thanksgiving is coming up!
Umm, well, don't excersize as much, but still do it. At least 30 min a day.
Also, eat 500+ calories everyday. Don't eat unhealthy though. Just because you need to gain weight doesn't mean it has to be unhealthy. You may end up clogging your arteries.