Anorexia nervosa, commonly called anorexia, is characterized by excessive weight loss, an irrational fear of gaining weight, and a distorted body self-perception. More than a simple eating disorder, anorexia nervosa tends to be about gaining control over yourself, so much so that you will starve yourself of much needed nutrients, adversely affecting your metabolism and hormonal levels. In turn, this can lead to problems with pregnancy and your ability to get pregnant, as well as your brain and heart processes, muscles, joints, bones, kidneys, intestines, and even your skin and hair.
Signs that you may have anorexia nervosa include the following:
- making yourself vomit
- taking pills to increase your urination or bowel movements
- taking diet pills
- not eating enough food or eating very little
- exercising a great deal, even when injured
Most, but not all sufferers are adolescent females, live in North America, have a mother or sister with anorexia, and have experienced some sort of traumatic event. If this sounds like you, you should know that there is a wide array of help available to you.
Your doctor may prescribe any of a variety of medications, so be sure to ask about their proper use and potential side effects. These drugs may include antidepressants, anti-anxiety drugs, anti-psychotics, and even a drug called olanzapine, which can help reduce obsessive thoughts while also helping stimulate your appetite. Requiring some time and commitment, psychotherapy such as cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) or cognitive remediation therapy (CRT) can often be the most effective treatment for anorexia.
Natural therapy can also help you manage anorexia nervosa. A nutritional counsellor is trained to help you choose an eating plan that will help you get back on the right track to good health. Acupuncture and TCM can help stimulate your appetite and reduce feelings of anxiety, anger and depression, while yoga and massage therapy can help you feel more relaxed.
Contact us for a FREE consultation on how natural therapy can help you prevent or manage your symptoms of anorexia nervosa.
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