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Anorexia/Eating Disorders/Severe bloating from chew/spit behavior

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Expert: - 8/20/2011


Question
I am currently in treatment for anorexia and chew/spit and have been trying to break the chew/spit cycle. I know that bloating is a side effect of chew/spitting and am suffering from severe bloating and water retention. I have been wondering about how long does it take for the bloating to subside once I have stopped using this behavior. Approximate number of days/hours would be helpful. Thank you so much.

Answer
Marissa-  a major factor with the bloating is the fact that the amount of time it takes for food to move through your digestive system.  An effect of the disease is that food does not move through at the normal rate that it used to.  That's often a complaint of people going through treatment for eating disorders.  It doesn't take much food to cause the discomfort.  I'm not able to tell you exactly how long this will last, but it is very common and won't last forever.  It is very real and uncomfortable...I understand it's not just an excuse to want to end treatment, but it won't be like this forever and things will get better with treatment.

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Ryan Hale

Expertise

I can answer questions specifically geared towards athletes and their eating issues. I would be able to assist parents or coaches with questions or concerns about disordered eating practices often found in the exercise and sports settings. I also have experience in training and conditioning so I am in a position to discus how the two interrelate.

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I have a bachelor's degree in sports medicine and master's degrees in sport psychology and clinical counseling. I have done counseling with individuals, couples, and families, with specialization in athletes. Past clients have included triathletes, dancers, college cyclists, and Pro Tour cyclists.

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National Athletic Trainer's Assoc. American Counseling Assoc

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bachelor's degree sports medicine master's degree sport psychology master's degree clinical counseling Nationally Certified Athletic Trainer with NATABOC Nationally Certified Counselor with NBCC Colorado Registered Psychotherapist

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U.S. national team level female athletes High school athletes Semi-pro soccer Pro Tour cyclists Triathletes Dancers

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