Expert: Amanda Sarkan - 11/14/2006

Question
For about the past year I have been suffering from anorexia.If it wasn't eating no more than 800 calories to excessive exercise to help me lose weight fast.I got down to about 90 pounds and I'm 5'5 before my family and boyfriend stepped.I am now about 103 but everyone wants me to get up to 115-120 my supposed healthy weight.How can I do so but not gain a lot of fat in the process? I've been gaining weight by drinking milk and an occasional sweat but I still work out about an hour 1/2 everyday to help ward off fat..Can you help me?

Answer
Hi Brittany.

I am proud of you for making the commitment to recovery!  It is possible.

I will tell you from first hand experience that gaining weight/fat scared the living daylights out of me.

Do know that your body does need some fat as it does have an important role in protecting your body.  

Have you seen a nutritionist or are you on a meal plan?  That can help immensely...I can even give you some suggestions.

Take it slowly.  One meal at a time one snack at a time.

Attitude is everything....don't think of gaining weight as gaining fat....when you catch yourself thinking those things (because that is the eating disorder) remind yourself you are gaining back your life and happiness!

Keep at it!  Good luck and let me know if you have anymore questions.

Amanda