Eating Disorders Support Group
Eating disorders are marked by an obsessive need to control the intake and/or purging of food. This community is dedicated to those struggling on the road to recovery. Join to discuss your experience with others and find support. Get advice, ask questions, and meet others who are going through similar struggles.
Ok, so I'm not bulimic.
I binge eat once a week, then fast for the rest of the week, occasionally eating something small in between - but usually only if someone is trying to convince me to, to shut them up.
I don't fast afterwards as a result of feeling guilty, or feel like I need to punish myself for it. I don't do it consciously, I do it cos I don't feel hungry - hence not being bulimic.
I do have low self image, and I used to starve myself purposely because of that - I wanted to be thinner, even though my BMI always proved me to be underweight. However, I've gained weight over the past 3 years, to try improve my health after the many illnesses that followed having a disorder, and I succeeded in that respect.
I would like to improve my health further, I'm currently seeking out gyms and various active classes I can take, but I need to improve my diet before doing this as I'm constantly feeling weak or dizzy. I'm used to these feelings, but they can prove hazardous in a gym or similar environment.
I would like to know if any of you have any tips on how to break out of the cycle of binge eating & fasting.
Thanks for reading :)
I binge eat once a week, then fast for the rest of the week, occasionally eating something small in between - but usually only if someone is trying to convince me to, to shut them up.
I don't fast afterwards as a result of feeling guilty, or feel like I need to punish myself for it. I don't do it consciously, I do it cos I don't feel hungry - hence not being bulimic.
I do have low self image, and I used to starve myself purposely because of that - I wanted to be thinner, even though my BMI always proved me to be underweight. However, I've gained weight over the past 3 years, to try improve my health after the many illnesses that followed having a disorder, and I succeeded in that respect.
I would like to improve my health further, I'm currently seeking out gyms and various active classes I can take, but I need to improve my diet before doing this as I'm constantly feeling weak or dizzy. I'm used to these feelings, but they can prove hazardous in a gym or similar environment.
I would like to know if any of you have any tips on how to break out of the cycle of binge eating & fasting.
Thanks for reading :)
The best thing you can do is keep to a consistent eating schedule. Even if you slip up and binge, do not compensate by skipping meals. Even if you feel crappy (physically and mentally) it's important to fuel yourself with something at each meal and snack. I can completely relate to the not feeling hungry thing. I think after so many years of having our disorders, our hunger cues are unreliable. They will fix themselves in time, but we have to keep eating regularly and consistently.
So for now, I think it would be best for you to eat small meals/snacks every 3-4 hours. Try to never go longer than this without having a little something. The binge/fasting cycle can perpetuate itself when you fast (when you starve, you are more likely to binge later).
Do you have a dietitian? If not, would it be at all possible for you to see one, even if just for a few sessions? He or she could help you set up some sort of meal plan/give you some guidelines to follow to help you get back on track.
Also, are you in therapy? As I am sure you know, eating disorders aren't really about the food. It's important to get to the underlying issues for true and lasting recovery to take place.
I can tell by your post that you're going to be okay. You seem motivated and determined to achieve both physical and mental well-being, and the fact that you've already overcome so much proves that you're strong. Sometimes we just get a little off track and need a little help to get going again. That's perfectly okay and to be expected! But yeah, in summary I would just suggest eating more regular and consistent meals/snacks, and looking into seeing a dietitian and therapist. And feel free to message me if you ever want to talk or just need some extra support. You can do this!!!