Expert: Jeanne Rust, PhD - 1/12/2010

Question
Hi,
I'm currently fighting an eating disorder. I'm currently at my lowest weight of 105lbs, being 6 foot tall i'm trying to accept that this isn't ok. I'd like to know if its possible to restrict subconciously? I made a decision not to gain weight from the age of 13 being 5 foot 4 and 116lbs. Although i made that decision i never felt i put it into action. I never refused food if offered, or sat  down to a meal and felt fearful of the weight gain, but then i did achieve what i wanted. I find it hard not to believe people when they say i'm 'naturally' thin. Logic tells me that no-one is naturally at my bmi. is that true? I can't eat more untill i can see that i restrict.

thank you so much for your time.

Answer
Dear Kate,

Yes, you are restricting!  With your height and weight, you're dangerously anorexic.  

I do believe that people can "make decisions" -- subconsciously for a variety of reasons.  To be the weight that you are right now has to be because you're not eating enough calories a day.  It doesn't make any difference if you're afraid or not afraid of weight gain -- you're still very much too thin.

You're not naturally thin at 6 feet tall!  Your logic is right on.  How many calories are you eating every day?  Or what do you eat daily?  I could tell from that .....

Please see if you can find a therapist who specializes in eating disorders and go just for an assessment at the beginning.  Find out exactly what's going on for you before you become even more ill!

Please let me know how you do!
Warmly,
Jeannie Rust, PhD
CEO/Founder
Mirasol, Inc.
888-520-1700
Www.mirasol.net
Www.edrecovery.com
@jeanniemirasol