Anorexia/Eating Disorders/Can i?

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Expert: - 8/27/2011


Question
Hi! I was wondering, how many calories does a 12 year old competitive swimmer with practice three days a week need? I try to eat around 200, but end up around 1000 on bad days. Is that okay? I just started doing this, and i have purged, (chewed and spit) about three times, and i have had thoughts of laxatives, although i dont know if i could buy them without getting caught. How dangerous is this? Would i still live. I am 5"0 and 89 lbs. I would like to get to 75. Is there a way to do this safely?

Answer
Eva- the amount of calories you are consuming is entirely too few.  In fact, if you had no energy expenditure and just laid in bed all day long, your brain would require more calories than what you are consuming.  It's impossible to say how much you should weigh.  At your age though, you should be developing great health habits such as with your training and eating for your sport.  You are off to a rough start as an athlete. i would suggest talking with a counselor about your situation.  Your school counselor is a great place to start.

Ryan

Anorexia/Eating Disorders

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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.

Experience

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.

Organizations
National Athletic Trainer's Assoc. American Counseling Assoc

Education/Credentials
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

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

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