Anorexia Recover Questions
Slash94
Posts: 36
Hey everyone, Well im underweight and just started to recover but I have a couple of questions.
Should I worry about how much sodium im eating? I eat lots a carbs which gets me wondering if too much sodium is bad so now i kind of worry to eat too much BUT i do drinks tons of water everyday probably more than 12 glasses a day.
Also same goes for fat intake, is it bad to eat too much fat in a day, say like maybe over 100g of fat? This morning i ate a PB and J sandwich which was 14g of fat then for lunch im considering of eating something like a small cheeseburger but then saw it has 17g of fat so right now im considering if i should eat it or not especially since im planning on eating pizza later for dinner which will add up more fat. And last but not least, Sugar intake, is too much sugar bad, like having cookies and ice cream in a day? Help would be appreciated, thanx everyone!
Should I worry about how much sodium im eating? I eat lots a carbs which gets me wondering if too much sodium is bad so now i kind of worry to eat too much BUT i do drinks tons of water everyday probably more than 12 glasses a day.
Also same goes for fat intake, is it bad to eat too much fat in a day, say like maybe over 100g of fat? This morning i ate a PB and J sandwich which was 14g of fat then for lunch im considering of eating something like a small cheeseburger but then saw it has 17g of fat so right now im considering if i should eat it or not especially since im planning on eating pizza later for dinner which will add up more fat. And last but not least, Sugar intake, is too much sugar bad, like having cookies and ice cream in a day? Help would be appreciated, thanx everyone!
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Replies
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Pizza, cheeseburger? Those are just has bad as cookies and ice cream.. I think you shouldn't be worrying about how much fat is in your burger, make yourself a stir fry instead with lots of vegetables. Eat something healthy0
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I think you should contact your medical support, as worrying about different macros and suchlike could be a trigger for you. Perhaps they can reassure you, monitor you a bit more and give you suitable dietary advice.0
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Pizza, cheeseburger? Those are just has bad as cookies and ice cream.. I think you shouldn't be worrying about how much fat is in your burger, make yourself a stir fry instead with lots of vegetables. Eat something healthy
"Healthy" is a relative term. I eat "healthy" every day, but still regularly eat chocolate and candy and takeout. There is nothing "bad" about pizza, burgers, cookies and ice cream. Nothing at all. Everything in moderation. Eating pizza, PB&Js and cheeseburgers in the same day does not sound moderate to me.
And I do agree 100% that you need to be eating more vegetables. Fill 1/2-2/3 of your plate with vegetables at every meal. It's almost impossible to crave junk when you're stuffed with broccoli.0 -
Im not worried about it cause itll cause weight gain which is the reason i WANT to eat it, im worried about the health benefits, like if i eat too much fat or sugar itll cause a problem, otherwise i would eat. Should i just not worry about the grams of fat and sugar and just eat it to help me gain weight?0
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I was anorexic all through high school. I was also a vegetarian and never very into fast food (although I ate it sometimes). It sounds like your whole day is about comfort/easy meals. I would plan your day to have one meal such as hamburgers or pizza but not both in one day. You are trying to get healthy not just put on weight. Check out healthy fats and carbs. Don't eat something just because it will put the right amount of calories in you. I can put 30 gallons of gasoline in my vehicle but if I choose diesel gas my vehicle will not run right. Choose your fuel wisely.
Best of luck on your recovery. It has been twenty years since high school and I still have to make sure I am eating enough. My MFP friends and my hubby are always helping me stay on track.0 -
Problem about that is that like i said im recovering from anorexia and vegetables are low in calories and fill me up quick, so i need something higher in calories which is why i ask if too much fat and sugar is alright for anorexia recovery since basically everything thats healthy is low in calories.Pizza, cheeseburger? Those are just has bad as cookies and ice cream.. I think you shouldn't be worrying about how much fat is in your burger, make yourself a stir fry instead with lots of vegetables. Eat something healthy
"Healthy" is a relative term. I eat "healthy" every day, but still regularly eat chocolate and candy and takeout. There is nothing "bad" about pizza, burgers, cookies and ice cream. Nothing at all. Everything in moderation. Eating pizza, PB&Js and cheeseburgers in the same day does not sound moderate to me.
And I do agree 100% that you need to be eating more vegetables. Fill 1/2-2/3 of your plate with vegetables at every meal. It's almost impossible to crave junk when you're stuffed with broccoli.0 -
Oh yeah definitely, i dont eat like that everyday, it was just this one day since basically i dont have anything in the house.I was anorexic all through high school. I was also a vegetarian and never very into fast food (although I ate it sometimes). It sounds like your whole day is about comfort/easy meals. I would plan your day to have one meal such as hamburgers or pizza but not both in one day. You are trying to get healthy not just put on weight. Check out healthy fats and carbs. Don't eat something just because it will put the right amount of calories in you. I can put 30 gallons of gasoline in my vehicle but if I choose diesel gas my vehicle will not run right. Choose your fuel wisely.
Best of luck on your recovery. It has been twenty years since high school and I still have to make sure I am eating enough. My MFP friends and my hubby are always helping me stay on track.0 -
But like i asked, is too much sodium, fat, or sugar bad when recovering from anorexia? I heard lots of people even a couple of doctors say that it doesnt matter as long as im getting enough calories to gain weight.0
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Not to be rude but I disagree with everyone who has already posted.
In recovery, in particular at the beginning, you need to eat a lot of calories. Your digestive system isn't going to be able to cope if you're eating loads of vegetables and high fibre foods. Processed, high fat, high sugar foods are easily digested and won't make you feel overly full. I think it's great that you're willing to give 100% to recovery and not have 'fear foods'.
Do not get hung up on macros or sugar or anything like that - just as your doctor says they don't matter in recovery . Just listen to what you're craving and eat it. If you want more then eat more.0 -
Problem about that is that like i said im recovering from anorexia and vegetables are low in calories and fill me up quick, so i need something higher in calories which is why i ask if too much fat and sugar is alright for anorexia recovery since basically everything thats healthy is low in calories.Pizza, cheeseburger? Those are just has bad as cookies and ice cream.. I think you shouldn't be worrying about how much fat is in your burger, make yourself a stir fry instead with lots of vegetables. Eat something healthy
"Healthy" is a relative term. I eat "healthy" every day, but still regularly eat chocolate and candy and takeout. There is nothing "bad" about pizza, burgers, cookies and ice cream. Nothing at all. Everything in moderation. Eating pizza, PB&Js and cheeseburgers in the same day does not sound moderate to me.
And I do agree 100% that you need to be eating more vegetables. Fill 1/2-2/3 of your plate with vegetables at every meal. It's almost impossible to crave junk when you're stuffed with broccoli.
Baked potatoes, avocado, nuts, seeds, peanut butter(100 cals a tbsp.), full fat dairy (cheese, greek yoghurt etc), wholegrain pasta... there are plenty of foods that will give you that calorie kick, that also contain some good nutrition. There is nothing wrong with having some treats each day, but you really also need to learn to get fats and calories from good, nutritious sources.
An avocado is 200-250 calories and has a decent amount of fat. Nuts are great. 600 calories per 100g.
And pizza is fine.0 -
Please please listen to your healthcare provider.
Most of us are not equipped to make this type of decision for you.
Salt, fat, and sodium are not going to hurt you in the short term. Just eat!0 -
Not to be rude but I disagree with everyone who has already posted.
In recovery, in particular at the beginning, you need to eat a lot of calories. Your digestive system isn't going to be able to cope if you're eating loads of vegetables and high fibre foods. Processed, high fat, high sugar foods are easily digested and won't make you feel overly full. I think it's great that you're willing to give 100% to recovery and not have 'fear foods'.
Do not get hung up on macros or sugar or anything like that - just as your doctor says they don't matter in recovery . Just listen to what you're craving and eat it. If you want more then eat more.
the only smart comment on here.
to the op dont worry about calories now, just eat and gain to a healthy weight, an talk to your doctor0 -
Baked potatoes, avocado, nuts, seeds, peanut butter(100 cals a tbsp.), full fat dairy (cheese, greek yoghurt etc), wholegrain pasta... there are plenty of foods that will give you that calorie kick, that also contain some good nutrition. There is nothing wrong with having some treats each day, but you really also need to learn to get fats and calories from good, nutritious sources.
An avocado is 200-250 calories and has a decent amount of fat. Nuts are great. 600 calories per 100g.
And pizza is fine.
^this. healthy fats and calories as I said before.0 -
Oh yeah definitely, i dont eat like that everyday, it was just this one day since basically i dont have anything in the house.
I know days like those. I hate it when I run out of good stuff. Eating disorders are a life time issue, or at least they have been for me. I'm very proud of you for seeking info on how to recover in a healthy way. Keep looking for help and info. You are on your way to healthy!:flowerforyou:0 -
Not to be rude but I disagree with everyone who has already posted.
In recovery, in particular at the beginning, you need to eat a lot of calories. Your digestive system isn't going to be able to cope if you're eating loads of vegetables and high fibre foods. Processed, high fat, high sugar foods are easily digested and won't make you feel overly full. I think it's great that you're willing to give 100% to recovery and not have 'fear foods'.
Do not get hung up on macros or sugar or anything like that - just as your doctor says they don't matter in recovery . Just listen to what you're craving and eat it. If you want more then eat more.
the only smart comment on here.
to the op dont worry about calories now, just eat and gain to a healthy weight, an talk to your doctor
Yes, this. Please don't worry about all of that other stuff right now; you really need to just focus on your recovery. It's important that you not trigger your ED with worries about fat, sugar, etc. As long as you are under the care of a doctor (preferably someone with experience treating anorexia), don't worry. You can focus on the other stuff later. Right now, you just need to get over this hurdle.0 -
No one here is an expert....go seek out a professional.0
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Problem about that is that like i said im recovering from anorexia and vegetables are low in calories and fill me up quick, so i need something higher in calories which is why i ask if too much fat and sugar is alright for anorexia recovery since basically everything thats healthy is low in calories.Pizza, cheeseburger? Those are just has bad as cookies and ice cream.. I think you shouldn't be worrying about how much fat is in your burger, make yourself a stir fry instead with lots of vegetables. Eat something healthy
"Healthy" is a relative term. I eat "healthy" every day, but still regularly eat chocolate and candy and takeout. There is nothing "bad" about pizza, burgers, cookies and ice cream. Nothing at all. Everything in moderation. Eating pizza, PB&Js and cheeseburgers in the same day does not sound moderate to me.
And I do agree 100% that you need to be eating more vegetables. Fill 1/2-2/3 of your plate with vegetables at every meal. It's almost impossible to crave junk when you're stuffed with broccoli.
Baked potatoes, avocado, nuts, seeds, peanut butter(100 cals a tbsp.), full fat dairy (cheese, greek yoghurt etc), wholegrain pasta... there are plenty of foods that will give you that calorie kick, that also contain some good nutrition. There is nothing wrong with having some treats each day, but you really also need to learn to get fats and calories from good, nutritious sources.
An avocado is 200-250 calories and has a decent amount of fat. Nuts are great. 600 calories per 100g.
And pizza is fine.
Right here, sorry but pizza, cheeseburger, ice cream and cookies all same day is not moderation. that is not termed healthy.. there are many ways to get your calories and fat other than junk food. ^^ Example right there. But yeh, better to speak to a dietician, garunteed she will recommend high fats/calories from "healthy" foods. ( THE ONES NOT SATURATED IN GREASE AND SIMPLE CARBS)0 -
Sugar is just a carb. As long as you're eating enough fats and protein, your carbs/sugar aren't particularly important unless you have a medical issue that requires carbs/sugar to be monitored.
However, it should be noted that fructose and sucrose can only be stored as liver glycogen and not muscle glycogen. The liver can hold 100-120g glycogen so anything more than that will be converted to triglycerides. As long as you still have a calorie deficit this will even out. Just try to make most of your carbs glucose and not sucrose or fructose. Fructose in particular has been shown to decrease exercise performance, increased likelihood of gastrointestinal distress, and increase perception of exertion.
Here are some studies:
http://www.setantacollege.com/wp-content/uploads/Journal_db/the effects of glucose....pdf
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3592616
As long as you eat enough protein (ideally 1g per pound of lean body mass but 1g per kg of body weight is acceptable) being over on fat is fine. Fats and protein should be viewed as minimum values so it's fine to go over. Carbs are unnecessary so you don't have to worry about eating enough. Some people do low carb, some people find their exercise suffers if they keep carbs too low, do what works for you.
What's important about fats is the ratio of saturated vs. monounsaturated vs. polyunsaturated fats. Saturated fat has been demonized in the past but some is necessary. Half of your cells membranes are made up of by saturated fats. Saturated fats are easy to get in your diet so try to focus on incorporating more essential fatty acids into your diet. Oily fish and flax seeds are a great source of omega 3 EFA's. You can take a fish oil or flax oil supplement if you have trouble getting it from your diet. Omega 6's are very easy to get into your diet so there's not need to supplement it. Most people eat too many omega 6's and too little omega 3's so to maintain a good ratio you shouldn't supplement your omega 6 intake.
For information of setting your macro target, go here: http://www.myfitnesspal.com/topics/show/911011-calculating-calorie-macronutrient-needs?page=1#posts-138213360 -
Not to be rude but I disagree with everyone who has already posted.
In recovery, in particular at the beginning, you need to eat a lot of calories. Your digestive system isn't going to be able to cope if you're eating loads of vegetables and high fibre foods. Processed, high fat, high sugar foods are easily digested and won't make you feel overly full. I think it's great that you're willing to give 100% to recovery and not have 'fear foods'.
Do not get hung up on macros or sugar or anything like that - just as your doctor says they don't matter in recovery . Just listen to what you're craving and eat it. If you want more then eat more.
Thanx, this made me feel alot better. I wont worry about the amount sugar anymore, ill just eat since basically i AM trying to recover anyway!0 -
Thanx! Yeah most of the fat and protein comes from PB and yogurt since i eat tons of that. Looks like ima have to get some flaxseed also, btw is it alright if i eat lots of Peanut butter in a day?
Problem about that is that like i said im recovering from anorexia and vegetables are low in calories and fill me up quick, so i need something higher in calories which is why i ask if too much fat and sugar is alright for anorexia recovery since basically everything thats healthy is low in calories.Pizza, cheeseburger? Those are just has bad as cookies and ice cream.. I think you shouldn't be worrying about how much fat is in your burger, make yourself a stir fry instead with lots of vegetables. Eat something healthy
"Healthy" is a relative term. I eat "healthy" every day, but still regularly eat chocolate and candy and takeout. There is nothing "bad" about pizza, burgers, cookies and ice cream. Nothing at all. Everything in moderation. Eating pizza, PB&Js and cheeseburgers in the same day does not sound moderate to me.
And I do agree 100% that you need to be eating more vegetables. Fill 1/2-2/3 of your plate with vegetables at every meal. It's almost impossible to crave junk when you're stuffed with broccoli.
Baked potatoes, avocado, nuts, seeds, peanut butter(100 cals a tbsp.), full fat dairy (cheese, greek yoghurt etc), wholegrain pasta... there are plenty of foods that will give you that calorie kick, that also contain some good nutrition. There is nothing wrong with having some treats each day, but you really also need to learn to get fats and calories from good, nutritious sources.
An avocado is 200-250 calories and has a decent amount of fat. Nuts are great. 600 calories per 100g.
And pizza is fine.0 -
Oh yeah definitely, i dont eat like that everyday, it was just this one day since basically i dont have anything in the house.
I know days like those. I hate it when I run out of good stuff. Eating disorders are a life time issue, or at least they have been for me. I'm very proud of you for seeking info on how to recover in a healthy way. Keep looking for help and info. You are on your way to healthy!:flowerforyou:
Thanks! You also made me feel tons better! Like I said I wont worry about the amount of sugar I eat since im trying to recover anyway. Today I feel like I ate tons of sugar, fruit, cookies, ice cream, cereal. lol Most of the snacks have lots of sugar but are high in calories so thats why i eat it to boost up my calories you know? Anyway, thanx again!0 -
I think right now, you should focus on getting calories in and once you are up to a healthy weight start focusing on the macros. Are you working with a dietician? If not, you should be. A dietician would be super beneficial for you right now and would tailor a healthy eating plan that will help you gain weight with the right foods. With being anorexic, you are probably vitamin deficient, so she can help you choose foods with the vitamins that you need, etc.
Good luck with your recovery. I, too, am trying to recover from an eating disorder. It's tough!0 -
Problem about that is that like i said im recovering from anorexia and vegetables are low in calories and fill me up quick, so i need something higher in calories which is why i ask if too much fat and sugar is alright for anorexia recovery since basically everything thats healthy is low in calories.Pizza, cheeseburger? Those are just has bad as cookies and ice cream.. I think you shouldn't be worrying about how much fat is in your burger, make yourself a stir fry instead with lots of vegetables. Eat something healthy
"Healthy" is a relative term. I eat "healthy" every day, but still regularly eat chocolate and candy and takeout. There is nothing "bad" about pizza, burgers, cookies and ice cream. Nothing at all. Everything in moderation. Eating pizza, PB&Js and cheeseburgers in the same day does not sound moderate to me.
And I do agree 100% that you need to be eating more vegetables. Fill 1/2-2/3 of your plate with vegetables at every meal. It's almost impossible to crave junk when you're stuffed with broccoli.
Baked potatoes, avocado, nuts, seeds, peanut butter(100 cals a tbsp.), full fat dairy (cheese, greek yoghurt etc), wholegrain pasta... there are plenty of foods that will give you that calorie kick, that also contain some good nutrition. There is nothing wrong with having some treats each day, but you really also need to learn to get fats and calories from good, nutritious sources.
An avocado is 200-250 calories and has a decent amount of fat. Nuts are great. 600 calories per 100g.
And pizza is fine.
Right here, sorry but pizza, cheeseburger, ice cream and cookies all same day is not moderation. that is not termed healthy.. there are many ways to get your calories and fat other than junk food. ^^ Example right there. But yeh, better to speak to a dietician, garunteed she will recommend high fats/calories from "healthy" foods. ( THE ONES NOT SATURATED IN GREASE AND SIMPLE CARBS)
Thanx! Those are easy to eat in a meal but im talking about as in snacks, I dont think I want to eat an avocado as a snack you know? lol But im thinkin about eating granola bars or yogurt and crackers for snacks but saw that they contained lots of sugar so thats why i asked if eating too much sugar in a day is alright when recovering anorexia. I just want to get back to my normal weight and be healthy.0 -
I think right now, you should focus on getting calories in and once you are up to a healthy weight start focusing on the macros. Are you working with a dietician? If not, you should be. A dietician would be super beneficial for you right now and would tailor a healthy eating plan that will help you gain weight with the right foods. With being anorexic, you are probably vitamin deficient, so she can help you choose foods with the vitamins that you need, etc.
Good luck with your recovery. I, too, am trying to recover from an eating disorder. It's tough!
Yeah, once I get back to my normal weight ill be worrying about all that. And some people told me that they're doctors said that sugar doesnt matter right now only that they're getting enough calories from anything. Thanx for the help btw!0 -
Problem about that is that like i said im recovering from anorexia and vegetables are low in calories and fill me up quick, so i need something higher in calories which is why i ask if too much fat and sugar is alright for anorexia recovery since basically everything thats healthy is low in calories.Pizza, cheeseburger? Those are just has bad as cookies and ice cream.. I think you shouldn't be worrying about how much fat is in your burger, make yourself a stir fry instead with lots of vegetables. Eat something healthy
"Healthy" is a relative term. I eat "healthy" every day, but still regularly eat chocolate and candy and takeout. There is nothing "bad" about pizza, burgers, cookies and ice cream. Nothing at all. Everything in moderation. Eating pizza, PB&Js and cheeseburgers in the same day does not sound moderate to me.
And I do agree 100% that you need to be eating more vegetables. Fill 1/2-2/3 of your plate with vegetables at every meal. It's almost impossible to crave junk when you're stuffed with broccoli.
OP: this is why you need to take advice from a medical professional who is aware of all your medical history. People on the internet are not qualified to advise about stuff like this. Also, you can discuss your fears about fat and sugar with them.
everyone else: this proves that healthy is relative and context dependent. What's good advice for an obese person trying to lose fat is *totally* different to what's good advice for someone who's recovering from starvation!!!0 -
Problem about that is that like i said im recovering from anorexia and vegetables are low in calories and fill me up quick, so i need something higher in calories which is why i ask if too much fat and sugar is alright for anorexia recovery since basically everything thats healthy is low in calories.Pizza, cheeseburger? Those are just has bad as cookies and ice cream.. I think you shouldn't be worrying about how much fat is in your burger, make yourself a stir fry instead with lots of vegetables. Eat something healthy
"Healthy" is a relative term. I eat "healthy" every day, but still regularly eat chocolate and candy and takeout. There is nothing "bad" about pizza, burgers, cookies and ice cream. Nothing at all. Everything in moderation. Eating pizza, PB&Js and cheeseburgers in the same day does not sound moderate to me.
And I do agree 100% that you need to be eating more vegetables. Fill 1/2-2/3 of your plate with vegetables at every meal. It's almost impossible to crave junk when you're stuffed with broccoli.
OP: this is why you need to take advice from a medical professional who is aware of all your medical history. People on the internet are not qualified to advise about stuff like this. Also, you can discuss your fears about fat and sugar with them.
everyone else: this proves that healthy is relative and context dependent. What's good advice for an obese person trying to lose fat is *totally* different to what's good advice for someone who's recovering from starvation!!!
Thanx, I dont have any medical issues or have fear of fat or sugar btw, I already been to the doctor and everything is fine except for the weight and trust me I love fat and sugar!0 -
Btw another question, is it necessary to count calories, (Not to lose weight) Or should i just keep on eating?0
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Btw another question, is it necessary to count calories, (Not to lose weight) Or should i just keep on eating?
This site is good for monitoring nutrition, but please be aware that it is easy to let the calorie counting become a trigger for obsessive food tracking and can actually become counterproductive for recovery. I hope you take any advice here with a grain of salt and always refer to your health professional for any real concerns. Most of us are not experienced enough or familiar with your particular situation to offer detailed advice.
I wish you the best in your recovery.0 -
Thanx! So what your saying is that its not necessary?Btw another question, is it necessary to count calories, (Not to lose weight) Or should i just keep on eating?
This site is good for monitoring nutrition, but please be aware that it is easy to let the calorie counting become a trigger for obsessive food tracking and can actually become counterproductive for recovery. I hope you take any advice here with a grain of salt and always refer to your health professional for any real concerns. Most of us are not experienced enough or familiar with your particular situation to offer detailed advice.
I wish you the best in your recovery.0 -
First, let me say that I'm so proud of you for getting help and working so hard to get healthy!!
Personally, as a former ana, I wish I'd had MFP to help me count calories during recovery. I basically wrecked my metabolism more because I had no idea what calories I was eating -- when I started using MFP I found that I had been eating way, WAY less than I thought I was (like 500 -600 calories during weekdays), then going nuts with binges or comfort foods on the weekend and eating close to 3000 or more some days! Crazy!!
My recommendation would be to set your MFP profile to gain however many pounds you want a week and try to eat as close to that as possible. A little under is okay, but make sure it's not under by something like 500+. Try to be consistent though. NOT 1200 some days and 2200 others.
And I don't think you should be worrying about macros and stuff until you're at a healthy weight. I find it very triggering to count things like that, and I've been out of recovery (and into obesity >_>) for years. Concentrate on getting to a normal weight for now, then worry about eating a little healthier. If counting calories gets too triggery for you, feel free to drop that too, as long as you're sure you're not undereating.
This is all just my opinion though, so please consult your doctor if you have any more questions!!
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