Losing Weight After An Eating Disorder

So you’ve overcome an eating disorder? Congratulations! But how do you navigate weight after you’ve recovered from something like bulimia or anorexia? Though it can be difficult, there are a few ways to approach the problem.

Redefine Success

What does success mean in terms of weight loss? Instead of refraining from eating or over-exercising, as someone with an eating disorder might do, a successful weight loss program recognizes that extreme restraint is not a solution and that the method is often unhealthy. Even counting calories, doing a little exercise or keeping track of the marks on a scale can be risky for those recovering from an eating disorder.

Instead of these typical weight loss solutions, a person recovering from an eating disorder might consider redefining what their means to them, as well as their body image. Focus on the incredible things it can or that it’s capable of, not of what you think it should look like ideally.

Share Your Story

One of the most important things a person who previously had an eating disorder can do is discuss their past with experts. These people might include doctors, personal trainers or fitness instructors. In fact, some doctors stress the important of an “eating disorders” check box under medical history sheets at doctor’s office – that way, doctors can better focus on each patient’s health and suggest an appropriate weight loss plan.

An alternative weight loss plan might include lowering cholesterol intake instead of hitting a certain number on the scale. Exercise plans might also be different for those with past eating disorders, with a focus on things like yoga that open up the body instead of something like weight lifting.

Source: U.S. News