I am trying to recover from anorexia, but am having difficulty accepting weight gain and eating on a regular schedule. Do you have any menu recommendations or nutritionist referrals?
I know that recovering from anorexia is hard work. It is going to be extremely helpful to have a good health care support team, supportive family and friends, counseling and faith, as well as courage and willpower.
For your health care team you might consider a licensed naturopathic physician. She can help you with nutritional guidance, herbal and nutritional supplements and moral support. I would also recommend some or all of the following health care professionals: a licensed acupuncturist, a massage therapist, a medical doctor and a counselor trained in the area of eating disorders.
Naturopathic physician referrals in your area can be obtained by calling 206-298-0126 or 503-499-4343. You might also find the following book helpful: The Secret Language of Eating Disorders: The Revolutionary New Approach to Curing Anorexia & Bulimia, by Peggy Claude-Pierre.
The most important thing about menu planning is to eat regular meals at regular times — breakfast, lunch and dinner. Eat quality, whole, natural foods. Make sure you get enough protein in the form of legumes, fish, poultry, nuts and seeds. Try to eat in an emotionally supportive environment. Finally, be sure to eat enough calories to sustain weight gain.
I wish you the best of luck in your recovery.
