Expert: Joanne - 11/24/2007

Question
Holly,

I was under extreme restrictive eating for about 3 years.  This past summer, I finally decided to get back to normal eating.  At summer, I was about 117 lbs.  Since then, I have gained about 10 lbs.  I am trying to eat around 1500 cal/day in 5-6 meals/day.  I'm also only working out 2-3 times a week, with both weights and some cardio.  I understand that while eating so little, my metabolism had slowed down.  I've accepted that and the fact that a lot of the weight I've gained back is in fat, especially in my butt and thighs!  My concern is, that after 4 months, I'm still gaining and my butt and thighs just keep getting bigger and bigger.  Is it logical to worry that when my metabolism will get back to normal again and start burning fat instead of storing everything I eat?  From what I know, I feel like I'm doing everything right, so it's really disheartening.  Should 4 months be enough time to get back to normal?  Anything you have for me would be much appreciated.  Thanks!

Answer
Susie

Unfortunately, there is no definitive answer for your question.  People will experience their metabolism stabilising at different times in recovery.

In order to ensure your metabolisms recovery, I would try to increase your calorie intake again to about 1800 calories.  But you are doing really well increasing your intake and decreasing exercise.

Your body is just storing a lot to repair itself, but I'd imagine if you have been consistent in your eating and exercise habits for those few months, you should be close to stabilising your weight.

Did you receive any sort of professional treatment for your eating disorder?  If you did, I think that you should discuss these concerns with your team in order to have them put your mind at rest, or revise your meal plan.

If you didn't get professional help, are you receiving any sort of counselling to help you deal with any underlying issues that led to the disordered eating patterns?

Please get back in touch if you have any other questions that you would like to ask, or if you just need someone to talk to.

All the best
Holly