I'm trying to recover from anorexia and i'm experiencing TERRIBLE bloating, i look like i'm 6 months pregnant, is the bloating permanent?

[finey]

please relate to this if you are a recovered anorexic, how long until the bloating is gone. i don't take any laxatives and i don't want to, i'm literally freaking out i don't wanna look pregnant for the rest of my life!!!!

[annaclarkstone]

HI Finey,

I wanted to answer your question to encourage you - as bloating is very common in recovery from anorexia. Here's a webstie that explains why : goaskalice.columbia.edu/rec.... When someone is anorexic they starve their bodies, and the effects of starvation on the body affects your mind and how you are able to make choices and how you perceive reality. As you nourish your body with good nutritious food, even though it takes time to get used to eating more, then your brain will recover and your fear levels will decrease and life will get a lot easier. It's important to work with a counsellor on the core issues you have - i.e. hurts from the past so that you can recover on an emotional level too. All the best with your recovery - well done you are worth it !!!

[melissaeileen]

I understand this problem completely! Unfortunately, and not to scare you, but it probably will take quite some time for your body to readjust to a normal amount of solid food. You will most likely will go through some horrendous days and nights - I recall some times being so bloated I could barely move and would have to roll out of bed several times and crawl to the bathroom. It still happens occasionally, and makes me not want to go out at all. I do suggest stretches, taking something for gas relief, and when you eat, eat slowly, in little doses and go for a walk after maybe and rest. It is mostly about being gentle.

You won't look pregnant forever I promise, but it takes a bit for your body to reintegrate food (and body weight/fat) properly. I can't say I'm wonderful yet, but I'm slowly seeing the redistribution along my limbs from my ballooned torso, regaining energy and all that. Find a friend who will listen and be encouraging and gentle to you even when you have no faith yourself. Keep going!

<3 Mel

[newn]

yes it sucks and makes you want to kill yourself!