Abstinence in the Context of an Eating Disorder

Dr Bob Smith, one of the co-founders of Alcoholics Anonymous, made one particularly well-known statement ‘Let’s not louse the whole thing up. let’s keep it simple’. This is also true for people with an eating disorder.

People who have eating disorders are well known for over complicating matters. Many of them – particularly those with anorexic tendencies –  will say they have an allergic reaction to a long list of foods. The truth is they are just afraid of eating these substances. The reality is that all they need to avoid is sugar and food containing white refined flour. This will set up a craving. All other ‘problem’ foods are most likely to be simply a habit that can be broken.

It can seem to be counter intuitive that anorexics should avoid foods that might bulk them up. However, as it is these substances that set off the craving. By avoiding them people with eating disorders can learn that they can eat perfectly safely without having to binge.

Eating Disorder

As well as allergies, people with eating disorders can often claim that they have vitamin and mineral deficiencies or intestinal disorders. A significant number may suggest that they have Myalgic Encephalophy (M.E).  These are like the ‘bandwagon’ illnesses for people with eating disorders. Many may claim to have them but few in reality will have. Once their eating disorders are treated it will become apparent that they do not have allergies, intestinal disorders or ME. This is similar to the many alcoholics and drug addicts who believe they have personality disorders or psychiatric problems. Once they stop using the alcohol or drugs, these disorders do not exist.

Some foods stimulate the appetite, such as salt and spices. These foods can be safely  used in cooking for people with eating disorders but should not be added at the table.

Eat Slowly

Once stimulated, the appetite centre in the brain tends to stay active for about 20 minutes. This is why it is not advisable to snack between meals. If those with an eating disorder feel hungry between meals they should have a drink of water, milk or freshly squeezed juice. For this reason also it is advisable for those who tend to over eat . Who are bulimic – to eat slowly and make a ‘normal’ sized meal last 20 minutes. Otherwise they may eat quickly and still feel hungry. Meals that are shorter or longer than 20 minutes can be a problem for people with eating disorders as they need to learn to eat only to satisfy hunger and for no other reason.

Alcohol is a refined carbohydrate and therefore should be avoided by those with eating disorders even if they do not have alcoholic tendencies. Similarly they should be very careful around caffeine and nicotine as these substances can be used to suppress the appetite.

The Haynes Clinic offers residential treatment for dependency on alcohol, drugs and prescription medication. We can also help with other addictions such as gambling and with eating disorders.

If you have an alcohol or drug related problem, please call The Haynes Clinic on 01462 851414 for free and confidential advice and help.