Expert: Ryan Hale - 2/13/2010

Question
I have suffered from anorexia for the past two months... I have not lost a lot of weight yet and I want to maintain it... How best do I do it? What effect will this disease have on my future? Will I be able to achieve my previous metabolic rate?

Answer
Fatema- let me see if I understand correctly, you have anorexia and want to maintain the weight you have currently but it was achieved due to the eating disorder?  I am unable to answer your question of how to maintain your weight and eating disorder on ethical grounds.  The effect the disease may have includes poor bone density leading to osteoporosis, bone fracture and early physical impairment.  Tissues such as skin and hair are also effected, as well as the function of internal organs, including the heart (which is how most anorexics die).  In addition, any issues of depression or anxiety that you may also have will go untreated if you maintain your current situation.  Anorexia also has the highest rate of death of any mental disorder and there is also a high suicide rate among those with eating disorders.  Your previous metabolic rate may or may not return to normal.  It may take it a few years to return to normal if it does at all.

This is not to scare you, I am just answering your questions.  It is important to get help with this disorder, as it is very difficult to get better even with help.   It is possible though.  You need to make sure that you are treating any associated issue that may be contributing to the disorder though such as depression, anxiety, problems with relationships, or life stresses.  Please consider talking with a mental health professional about this.