Expert: Leigh-Anne Persing, PA-C - 11/3/2008

Question
Hi, I suffered from mild anorexia for about 1/1.5 years - my weight dropped to about 7st (I am 5ft 4in) at its lowest. I am now eating more (although I am still going to the gym often in order to maintain a lean figure). I am now 7.5st.

I was unable to go the gym for two months recently. Although I did not notice any change in my body shape at the time, I now find that I am extremely bloated and my stomach is constantly distended. This happens from the time I wake up until I sleep. I was also very constipated for about the last 6 weeks. My weight has not increased.

I dont think it is fat - I find it hard to "suck" in and my lower abdomen feels hard. I have read that anorexia sufferers usually have this problem when they begin eating normally again - is this true? If so, does it ever cease or is this a life-long effect? How can I minimise it and how can I be sure that this is really the case? I find it hard to believe because I was never really starving myself excessively (just a general fear of eating). Also this seems to have happened very suddenly. I'd appreciate anything you can tell me about this problem - it is making it difficult for me to continue recovery because I just feel fat

Answer
those with eating disorders can suffer from constipation, abdominal distension, bloating. Make sure you are getting enough water (60-70ounces per day) and enough fiber (20-30grams per day). Try some gas-x (or simethicone- can be bought over the counter), and you can also get some Miralax (found over-the-counter as well)... 1 capful daily.