Understanding why you need to eat more during recovery can be somewhat confusing, but it’s a question I frequently come across in my practice. You’re definitely not alone in wondering about this. Let’s delve into some key reasons why increased nutrition is critical during this time.
Your needs just got a promotion (your body requires more energy)
When we restrict our food intake, our body prioritizes keeping the essentials running smoothly, which means other areas are neglected. During recovery, it’s important to eat more than your usual baseline (which you’ll rediscover through the recovery process) to help repair those neglected areas.
Some signs that your body needs extra care may include abnormal blood test results, weight loss, or out-of-range vitals like low blood pressure or body temperature.
The tricky part is that signs you need some extra TLC might also not be visibly obvious. Your body may signal this in ways you’ve likely become accustomed to, such as, regularly feeling cold, dizziness, brittle nails and hair, irregular periods, frequently sick, intense emotions, or constant food thoughts. These signs are like your body’s way of saying “Hey, can you help me out here?”
When we start eating enough, our metabolism kicks into high gear and burns brightly like a campfire with plenty of wood
When we restrict, our metabolism slows down as a safety mechanism. However, once we start eating more, our metabolism rises in response. Just like adding wood to a campfire, the flames become stronger and warmth increases. It’s important to eat enough to keep the fire of your metabolism burning strong and steady.
Our perception might be off like trying to use a map of the wrong city
Lastly, our perception of what is enough food might be skewed, thanks to the eating disorder and diet culture. It can be tricky to navigate this, but it’s important to remember that everyone’s needs are different. What works for your neighbour, best friend, or a friend of a friend on social media might not be right for you. So, trust your own needs and try not to compare your food choices to others.
Change, like anything truly valuable, requires time
I want to highlight that changing eating habits in recovery is incredibly difficult. The eating disorder’s eating patterns and behaviours often feels like a safety blanket or your favourite well-worn sweater, so it’s completely normal to find change difficult. It is an understandable challenge and, like anything worth doing, it takes time.
Bethany Gooding (she/her)
