Expert: Joanne - 12/24/2006

Question
I used to be anorexic, recovered, and then in the past year and a half started to chew and spit food.  Over the past year, it has become out of control.  I am tall and naturally thin.  Chewing and spitting became an obsession to me.  I have gained about eight pounds.  I have managed to stop for two weeks.  I was wondering if I would lose the weight I gained or not.  Also, I have noticed my face has become a bit fuller, and I do not like that.  Will I go back to my normal weight?  I've been eating balanced meals since I've quit.  I have not noticed weight gain, but haven't noticed weight loss either.  Please help me with any knowledge or insight you have.  My friends and famliy know, and I have been to a doctor, but I still don't have answers to these questions.  Thank you so much.

Answer
Chewing and spitting shouldn't have caused you to gain weight unless you are swallowing some of the food by accident, which is actually quite easily done.

Your weight should become stable, and the 8 lbs gained should be able to be lost sensibly on a well-balanced diet, but please don't do this if you think there is any risk of you becoming ill again.

I would consider maybe speaking to your Dr about the weight gain though and just get him to make sure that there is no other reason for it!

I hope this has been of some help.  If not, please get back in touch!

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