Recovery from Anorexia

hh12995

I am currently recovering from a relapse back into anorexia and am struggling to figure out how much to eat. I am a collegiate xc and track runner, but stopped all running and exercise this past week because I need to gain 2 lbs. still before I return to campus soon, in order to train and be on the team this year. I was eating 2500-2600 calories a day when running 60 min. (about 9.5-10 miles) a day. I would cross train 1-2 days a week though, and I would always take one day to completely rest. On cross training and rest days, I would eat 100 calories less (elliptical for 60 minutes to cross train). In May, I was struggling w/weight gain and was eating only like 1600-1800 calories a day while running and my BMR was judged to be 1100 from a body composition test. I just got another body comp. test today and it showed my BMR to be 1335. But I am a 19 yo female who weights 100 lbs and is 5'4". It just seems really high compared to the other one. Now, my head is messing with me regarding how much I should eat while not running. I am decently active otherwise, take walks and stand a bit of the day. I am planning to eat 2000, but I also don't know if that's too much or too little. Any advice?!!?!? I would really appreciate some reassurance and guidance so I can do this and do it right!

jess1992uga

In order to gain with all of this exercise I am thinking you are going to need closer to 3000/3500 calories. Honestly though, the best thing for my ED recovery was seeing a dietitian. I am sure since you are a collegiate athlete the school would offer these services free for you. I would reach out to the dietitian for intake advice as she can better judge your calories burned by exercise. By the way, BMR is what it takes for you just to function...as in if you were in a coma. So even if you did no exercise you would need more than this just to maintain. It's better to go off a TDEE.

jancie84

You've been diagnosed with Anorexia Nervosa? Do you see a MD or dietician? Sounds like this would be the best bet so you know you're getting all your nutrients and calories. Plus, great to have a relationship with someone who knows you and your personal situation! Does your coach know?

peanutbutter_runner

Instead of relying on strangers' advice over the internet, please go visit a registered dietician. They will be able to help you with your individual needs, as everyone's recovery is different.