Anorexia nervosa is a severe eating disorder characterised by an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image. It often involves severe food restriction, excessive exercise, and other behaviours aimed at weight loss.
However, when someone decides to embark on the journey to recovery, the body undergoes a process known as refeeding syndrome. This can be a life-threatening condition that occurs when an individual with severe malnutrition begins to eat again. Refeeding syndrome is characterised by shifts in electrolytes (such as phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium) and fluid balance, leading to heart failure, respiratory failure, seizures, and even death. It necessitates careful monitoring and management by medical professionals. Seeking help at the first signs of anorexia is crucial to prevent extreme malnutrition. We can help.
Here are some ways anorexia can affect the body:
Slow heart rate (bradycardia) and low blood pressure (hypotension), leading to dizziness, fainting, and heart failure.
Cognitive impairment, difficulty concentrating, and memory problems due to inadequate nutrition and electrolyte imbalances.
Gastrointestinal issues such as constipation, bloating, and abdominal pain due to inadequate food intake.
Disruption of the normal functioning of the endocrine system, resulting in irregular menstrual cycles, amenorrhea (loss of menstrual periods), and infertility.
Weakened bones and an increased risk of fractures and osteoporosis due to low body weight and nutritional deficiencies.
Dry skin, brittle nails, and hair loss due to nutritional deficiencies.
Kidney damage due to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
A weakened immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections and illnesses.
Liver damage due to malnutrition and other complications.
Muscle weakness and wasting due to inadequate food intake and the body's use of muscle tissue for energy.
Hormonal imbalances, irregular menstrual cycles, amenorrhea, and infertility.
When on the road to recovery, things can feel worse before they become better:
It is often reported that people feel worse when they start eating and drinking again. This is because the sudden reintroduction of food and water can lead to gastrointestinal issues such as bloating, cramping, diarrhoea, or constipation. As the body starts to process food again, there can be changes in metabolism that may lead to weight gain or changes in body composition. Reintroducing food can also bring up emotional and psychological challenges, such as anxiety, guilt, or fear of weight gain. Even when an individual begins to eat again, it may take time for the body to fully recover from the nutritional deficiencies caused by severe restriction.
If someone needs to go onto a refeeding program, it is typically done gradually and may involve starting with small amounts of food and increasing intake slowly over time, allowing the body to cope with food and water quantities.
Odema, also know as edema, also known as fluid retention or swelling, is a common complication associated with anorexia nervosa, particularly during the refeeding process. Odema occurs when excess fluid accumulates in the body's tissues, causing them to swell. This can happen for several reasons in individuals with anorexia: refeeding, starvation, hypoproteinemia (low levels of protein in the blood), liver, and heart dysfunction.
Energy levels:
Anorexia involves severe caloric restriction, leading to a lack of energy from food. The body requires energy from food to function properly, and when this is insufficient, it can lead to low energy levels. On the other hand, while in recovery, a person may switch from low energy to hyperactivity in some cases as the body is becoming more replenished.
Nutrients are vital for energy production, and their absence can result in fatigue and low energy levels. Anorexia can lead to changes in metabolism, where the body slows down to conserve energy. This adaptation can lead to lower energy levels and a feeling of constant fatigue. In severe cases, anorexia can cause the body to break down muscle tissue for energy, leading to muscle weakness and fatigue. The mental strain of living with anorexia, combined with the physical effects, can contribute to feelings of exhaustion and low energy levels.
As we approach Eating Disorders Awareness Week 2024, it serves as a poignant reminder that no one should face the battle against an eating disorder alone.
If you are part of a school, or your child is going through anorexia, other eating disorders, or body dysmorphic disorder and you would like support, get in touch with our team. We are a 'not for profit' organisation with a team of trainers, coaches, and therapists ready to take your child through a robust program involving animation videos, coaching, and, where necessary, therapy.
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