Expert: Meg - 9/7/2008

Question
This past summer I started running two miles five times a week, along with
riding on a stationary bike for about 20 minutes. I also started to eat VERY
healthy. It got to the point where I weighed 93 pounds and was continuing to
loose weight. At the time I didn't think I had an eating disorder, but now I
think I did/do. I still weigh 93 pounds, but I've been trying to eat more.
Should I stop exercising? How much exercise should I do? What types of
things should I eat to help gain weight?

Answer
Hi Melissa,

Thanks for your question and I hope that I can be of some help.  I'm glad that you are trying to be healthy and its good that you're aware that your weight has gone too low and that you're trying to be proactive and do something about this.  

Its hard to tell you exactly what you should eat and my first suggestion is to consult a nutritionist (if this is possible) so that he or she can help you determine what *your* body needs in terms of nutrition to get and remain healthy.  If this isn't a possibility, then I would try to educate yourself about good nutrition and work towards that.

I'm not sure, from your note, if you feel comfortable and okay with adding more to your diet so that your weight can get back to a healthy level.  If you do (which is great) then simply adding more nutrient dense foods, such as nuts, cheese, peanut butter, etc can help you regain some weight.  Also, there are supplements such as Ensure that can help you add calories to your daily intake.  

If you are *not* feeling totally comfortable with making your diet more comprehensive and healthy, then you are probably more stuck in your eating disorder and might need to look at talking with someone so that you can move forward.

I'm going to give you a few web links in case you want to read more and find out about recovery:

http://www.something-fishy.org/

http://www.pale-reflections.com/

http://eatingdisordersonline.com/


As for exercise, I think doing some is probably okay but you might want to cut down and do something easier like walking or yoga until your weight stabilizes and you get a little healthier.  

I hope this helps!  Please feel free to write any time if there is anything else that I can help with.

Take care,
Meg