| - - - - - - - - - - - - Back to Top - - - - - - - - - - - - General Anorexia Nervosa Information
Anorexia Nervosa is a chronic eating disorder characterized by self-induced weight loss, negative perception of body image and physiological changes that result from nutritional depletion. Individuals suffering from anorexia nervosa have an intense fear of becoming obese. They fixate on their weight and refuse to eat to the point of starvation even though they are severely underweight. Anorexia sufferers often abuse laxatives, which worsens the fluid/electrolyte/nutrient deficiencies in the body.
Of those who suffer from anorexia nervosa, 90% are female. This disorder typically appears during adolescence, but it can develop in early childhood and adulthood. Anorexia develops more frequently in athletes and those who are involved in activities or jobs that encourage thinness (modeling, acting and ballet). Anorexia can be a life-long illness and often leads to serious complications and death if not treated. The disorder is curable with appropriate treatment.
- - - - - - - - - - - - Back to Top - - - - - - - - - - - - Possible Causes of Anorexia Nervosa
The exact cause of anorexia nervosa is not known, but it appears that the disease involves biological, psychological and social triggers. Some experts believe that the development of anorexia nervosa is related to the amount of serotonin in the brain. A person who has a parent or sibling with anorexia is at an increased risk of developing the disorder themselves. Some stressful life events can also trigger anorexia, including starting high school or college; moving; parental divorce; physical or sexual abuse or the death of a parent, sibling or close friend. Some young people over-react to a negative remark made about their personal appearance by severely limiting food intake, which can lead to anorexia. People who tend to be perfectionists and are overly orderly, withdrawn and see things very literally display personality traits that are consistent with anorexia sufferers.
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A person with anorexia nervosa weighs 85% or less of the normal weight of a person of the same age and height; is excessively concerned about gaining weight even though the person is underweight; has a distorted body image; denies the seriousness of being underweight; ceases to menstruate or, if very young, does not start menstruating when expected; develops strange eating rituals; abuses laxatives; vomits excessively; and exercises too much.
- - - - - - - - - - - - Back to Top - - - - - - - - - - - - Possible Lifestyle Changes for Anorexia Nervosa
There is no foolproof way to prevent anorexia nervosa, but experts agree that parents who instill self-confidence and a healthy body image in their children are helping combat the personality traits that can lead to the disorder. Early detection and treatment of anorexia nervosa is essential in controlling the disease before it progresses. Under the guidance of a doctor, mental health professional and nutritionist, a patient can learn to take control of her eating habits, develop trust in family members and others who try to help and learn strategies to take care of her emotional well-being. It is essential that the anorexia sufferer receives unconditional love and full support from family members in battling the disease.
- - - - - - - - - - - - Back to Top - - - - - - - - - - - - In accordance with FDA regulation, we do not make any therapeutic claims for any Dietary Supplements in accordance with the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act.
Beneficial Dietary Supplements
Multivitamin and Mineral Complex provides all necessary nutrients.
Zinc plus Copper provides necessary enzymes needed to increase appetite and enhance taste.
Acidophilus replaces the friendly bacteria lost from laxative abuse and excessive vomiting.
5-Hydroxy L-tryptophan (5-HTP) aids in treating depression and nervousness.
SAMe helps reduce stress and depression.
Primrose Oil is important for all bodily functions and cell repair.
Vitamin B Complex helps prevent anemia.
Dandelion, Milk Thistle, Red Clover and Wild Yam help rebuild the liver and cleanse the bloodstream.
Ginger Root, Gotu Kola and Peppermint stimulate the appetite.
St. Johns Wort and Kava Kava calm the nervous system and help prevent depression.
REFERENCES: Prescription for Nutritional Healing, 3rd Edition, Phyllis Balch, CNC; James F. Balch, M.D. - - - - - - - - - - - - Back to Top - - - - - - - - - - - -
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