Understand that a gap often exists between what you know you should do and what you actually do, due to subconscious homeostatic and reward processes. Leverage “knowledge of knowledge” to consciously intervene and, over time, make desired behaviors more reflexive, even if initially difficult.
Actively question and define what “healthy eating” means for your individual self. Strive to develop a relationship with food that allows for enjoyment, both socially and individually, without becoming neurotic or compulsive.
If you or someone you know exhibits symptoms of an eating disorder, take this seriously and consult a qualified healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis or to rule out the disorder, as self-diagnosis can be precarious.
For anorexia, focus on building, breaking, and rebuilding new habits, as this is identified as one of the most effective treatments for the disorder by rewiring the brain circuitry.
For anorexia, combine habit rewiring with a family-based therapy model. This involves educating the entire family on the disorder’s biology and psychology to create a supportive network that cues the individual towards healthier habits and fosters autonomy.
To effectively change and rewire unhealthy habits, particularly in anorexia, teach the individual to identify the specific events or thoughts that lead up to the habit. These triggers are crucial points of intervention for changing behavior.
Teaching individuals with anorexia to understand their own dysfunctional habits and what is happening to them empowers them to intervene and initiate changes in their behavior.
For bulimia, behavioral interventions can be effective, especially if started early. Combining these with drug-based interventions is consistently more effective than using either approach alone.
Engage in comprehensive blood testing to gain vital insights into your mental and physical health, as many conditions and levels (e.g., elevated mercury) can only be detected through such tests.
If undertaking extended fasts (1-3 days), it is critically important to ingest plenty of fluids and electrolytes (salt, potassium, magnesium). This ensures proper neuronal function and prevents dangerous health outcomes, as neurons depend on these ions.
To ensure adequate hydration and electrolytes, dissolve one packet of Element in 16-32 ounces of water first thing in the morning. Also, consume it during physical exercise, especially on hot days, to replenish lost water and electrolytes.
When interacting with someone with anorexia, refrain from telling them they are too thin or need to eat. Their visual perception of themselves is distorted, and they genuinely do not see themselves accurately, rendering such comments ineffective.