Anorexia nervosa treatment

Prevent, alleviate, or heal disease—naturally.

Meet our practitioners who specialize in natural Anorexia nervosa treatment

How it works

Consult with our health coaches who will learn about your symptoms, habits, and goals.

Take personalized home health tests to discover potential root causes of any symptoms or conditions you may have.

Review your results in just days with our functional medicine doctors, nurses, and dietitians who will help you achieve optimal health.

Learn about Anorexia nervosa

Anorexia nervosa, widely recognized simply as anorexia, is an eating disorder characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image, leading sufferers to severely restrict calorie intake. Despite being less common than other eating disorders, its impact on physical and mental health is profound, affecting not only the individual but also their families. Functional and natural approaches to treatment focus on holistic healing, addressing both the mind and the body to encourage recovery and long-term wellness.

Causes

Anorexia nervosa is complex, with no single cause identified. It often stems from a combination of biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors. Genetics may play a role, as having a family member with the disorder increases the risk. Psychological aspects, such as perfectionism, high levels of anxiety, and the need for control, are also significant. Sociocultural influences, including societal pressure to conform to certain body standards and the glorification of thinness, further exacerbate the condition.

Signs and symptoms

- Drastic weight loss - Preoccupation with food, dieting, and counting calories - Distorted self-image and denial of being underweight - Intense fear of gaining weight - Lack of menstruation in females - Insomnia or disrupted sleep patterns - Thinning hair or hair loss - Brittle nails and dry skin - Development of lanugo (fine hair) over the body - Social withdrawal and isolation

Diagnosing Anorexia nervosa

Diagnosing anorexia nervosa typically involves a comprehensive evaluation to rule out other health conditions and to assess the presence of symptoms characteristic of the disorder. This evaluation may include physical exams, lab tests, and detailed discussions about eating habits, body image, and psychological well-being. Healthcare providers may use diagnostic criteria from the DSM-5, a manual for mental disorders, to confirm the diagnosis. Early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment and recovery.

Prevention and natural treatment

Preventing anorexia nervosa emphasizes education on healthy eating habits, promoting positive body image, and developing coping strategies for stress and emotional challenges. Encouraging open conversations about health, beauty standards, and media consumption can also be protective. Treatment typically involves a combination of nutritional counseling, therapy, and sometimes medication to address underlying mood disorders. In terms of natural and functional medicine approaches, emphasis is placed on holistic healing. Nutritional therapy aims to restore healthy eating patterns and correct nutritional deficiencies, while psychological therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy focus on addressing distorted thoughts and behaviors related to food and body image. Mindfulness and stress-reduction techniques, along with community support or support groups, play a critical role in healing and recovery. Recovery from anorexia nervosa is a journey that involves both the mind and the body. A multi-faceted approach, integrating both traditional and natural treatments, offers the best chance for overcoming the disorder and achieving sustained wellness.

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