Expert: Jeanne Rust, PhD - 11/30/2010

Question
QUESTION: Hello,
I'm 14 years old, been anorexic for over a year now; I am 25 pounds underweight. Just recently (three days ago), I got the motivation to stop hurting my body the way I have been, and begin to recover. I want to be muscular. Kind of like Jamie Easton, but not as bodybuilder-esque, if that makes sense. I was told that I have to gain weight before I can gain muscle. I thought that I could just binge eat until I gained enough weight to start exercising, but I tried that and it's just painful.
What approach should I take to gain weight? And how much weight should I gain before I start exercising and gaining muscle? I don't want to hurt my body more than I already have.
Cheers,
Rhiannon.

ANSWER: Dear Rhiannon,

I'm so glad that you wrote.  It sounds as if you need some help with this.  Bingeing is not the answer.

The main thnig first is for you to become well from your eating disorder.  See a therapist that specialiZes in earring disorders and a good nutritionist.  If you're working out properly (under the direction of a trainer and therapist) I suspect you'll gain weight and build muscle at the same time.

Do see professionals so you can become well!  Keep in touch and lye me know how you are.  I'm concerned.

Warmly,
Jeanne Rust, PhD
CEO Owner
Www.mirasol.net
Www.edrecovery.com
888-520-1700

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you for your reply. c:
I see a therapist once a week, but she's more concerned about my depression than my eating habits, apparently. I've been eating normally for a while now, but I haven't gained any weight eating three to four meals a day. In fact, I've lost even more weight. I'm 30 pounds underweight right now, and no matter what I eat or how much I eat, I can't seem to gain weight.
Is there anything I can do?
Thank you,
Rhiannon.

Answer
Hi, Rhiannn,

Thanks for writing back.

It sounds as if your metabolism has been turned up  to high.  Of course the depression is important.        And that can certainly affect your appetite.      Are you eating a lot of protein?      meat and cheese?     What. About a nutritionist?  It's. Time for that as well.  Your health is so important!

Please keep in touch.

Warmly,
Jeanne