Understanding Anorexia Nervosa: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Diet Plan

Health Desk
Sandeep Dhand
Nutritionist And Health Educator

Introduction

Anorexia Nervosa, commonly called Anorexia, is one of the most serious eating disorders that affect both the mind and body. It is not just about food; it is more about how people think about their body weight, shape, and self-worth. People suffering from anorexia have an intense fear of gaining weight, even when they are dangerously underweight. They often see themselves as overweight even when they are extremely thin.

This mental and physical health condition can affect anyone, but it is most common among teenagers and young women. However, men and even older adults can also suffer from it. Anorexia is not just a lifestyle choice or a simple diet gone wrong — it is a complex psychological illness that requires professional help, emotional support, and proper nutrition management.

What Is Anorexia Nervosa?

Anorexia Nervosa is an eating disorder in which a person restricts their food intake severely. They may eat very small portions or skip meals altogether to lose weight. Even when they become dangerously thin, they continue to believe they are overweight. This distorted self-image is a core symptom of anorexia.

In medical terms, anorexia leads to extreme malnutrition, affecting the body’s organs, hormones, bones, and overall energy levels. The disorder can be life-threatening if left untreated.

Types of Anorexia Nervosa

There are mainly two types of anorexia:

1. Restricting Type:
   People with this type limit their calorie intake severely. They avoid high-calorie foods and may also do excessive exercise to lose weight.
2. Binge-Eating or Purging Type:
   In this type, people eat food but later remove it from their body by vomiting or using laxatives to avoid gaining weight. It is somewhat similar to bulimia nervosa but still falls under anorexia because of the extreme fear of weight gain.

Causes of Anorexia

The exact cause of anorexia is not known, but it usually results from a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors. Let’s understand these in detail.

1. Psychological Causes

Low self-esteem: People who suffer from anorexia often feel worthless or not good enough.

Perfectionism: Many anorexic individuals have a personality that wants everything to be perfect, including their body.

Fear of losing control: Controlling food intake gives them a sense of control over life.

Past trauma or abuse: Emotional pain or trauma can trigger self-harming behaviors like starvation.

2. Biological Causes

Genetics: Studies suggest that anorexia may run in families. If someone in the family had an eating disorder, others might be at higher risk.

Brain chemicals: Imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine can affect mood, appetite, and self-image.

Hormonal problems: Hormones that control hunger and stress, like leptin and cortisol, may be unbalanced in anorexia.

3. Social and Environmental Causes

Media influence: Movies, social media, and advertisements often promote thinness as the standard of beauty.

Peer pressure: Young people, especially teenagers, may feel pressure to look a certain way.

Family expectations: Families that emphasize success, control, or appearance can contribute to the problem.

Occupation: Certain professions such as modeling, acting, gymnastics, and dancing often demand being slim.

Common Symptoms of Anorexia Nervosa

The symptoms of anorexia appear gradually and may vary from person to person. They can be physical, emotional, and behavioral.

1. Physical Symptoms

Extreme weight loss

Thin appearance

Fatigue and weakness

Dizziness or fainting

Hair thinning or falling out

Dry, yellowish skin

Cold hands and feet

Swelling in arms or legs due to fluid retention

Irregular or absent menstrual cycles in women

Slow heart rate and low blood pressure

Constipation and stomach pain

2. Emotional and Behavioral Symptoms

Fear of gaining weight even when underweight

Obsession with food, dieting, and calories

Avoiding eating in public

Lying about eating or skipping meals

Exercising excessively

Distorted body image — seeing oneself as overweight when actually very thin

Irritability, mood swings, or depression

Difficulty concentrating

Withdrawal from friends and family

Complications of Anorexia

Anorexia is not just about being thin; it affects nearly every organ system in the body. If untreated, it can cause:

1. Heart problems: Low blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, or even heart failure.
2. Bone loss: Due to calcium deficiency, leading to osteoporosis.
3. Anemia: Because of poor nutrition and low iron levels.
4. Hormonal imbalance: Causing fertility issues and menstrual irregularities.
5. Kidney and liver damage: Due to dehydration and malnutrition.
6. Weak immune system: Making the body prone to infections.
7. Digestive problems: Such as bloating, constipation, and stomach pain.
8. Mental health issues: Like depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts.
9. Death: In severe cases, anorexia can be life-threatening if the body shuts down due to starvation.

Diagnosis

Doctors diagnose anorexia by evaluating the patient’s physical health, eating patterns, and mental state. The process may include:

Medical History: Understanding past health and weight changes.

Physical Exam: Checking body weight, BMI, heart rate, blood pressure, and temperature.

Blood Tests: To detect nutritional deficiencies and organ damage.

Psychological Evaluation: To assess thoughts, emotions, and behaviors related to food and body image.

Treatment of Anorexia Nervosa

Anorexia treatment is not only about gaining weight — it’s about healing the mind and the body. It requires medical, nutritional, and psychological support. Recovery may take time, but it is possible.

1. Medical Treatment

If a person’s weight is dangerously low, hospitalization may be necessary. Doctors stabilize vital signs and correct dehydration and nutritional deficiencies.

2. Nutritional Counseling

A registered dietitian or nutritionist helps the patient plan healthy meals and rebuild a normal relationship with food. The goal is gradual weight restoration and balanced nutrition.

3. Psychotherapy

This is the most important part of treatment because anorexia begins in the mind. Common therapies include:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps identify and change negative thoughts about body image and food.

Family-Based Therapy (FBT): Involves family members in supporting healthy eating habits.

Interpersonal Therapy: Focuses on improving self-esteem and emotional relationships.

4. Medication

While there is no specific drug for anorexia, antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications may help manage associated mental health issues.

5. Support Groups

Support groups or therapy sessions with people facing similar issues can reduce loneliness and encourage recovery.

Role of Nutrition and Diet Plan for Anorexia Patients

Nutrition plays a vital role in the recovery of anorexia patients. Since the body has been deprived of essential nutrients for a long time, reintroducing food should be slow and carefully planned to avoid refeeding syndrome (a dangerous condition when food is reintroduced too quickly).

Here is a simple sample diet plan to help in recovery (under medical supervision):

Morning (Breakfast)

A glass of warm milk with honey

A small portion of oats or porridge

1 banana or soft fruit

A handful of soaked almonds or walnuts

Mid-Morning Snack

Fresh fruit juice or coconut water

1 boiled egg or a slice of whole-grain toast with peanut butter

Lunch

A bowl of vegetable soup or lentil soup

1 cup of rice or 2 chapatis with vegetables

Paneer or tofu curry for protein

A small bowl of curd (yogurt)

Evening Snack

Fruit smoothie or a glass of milk

Handful of nuts or a protein bar

Dinner

Light khichdi (rice + lentils) or vegetable pulao

Cooked vegetables or salad

A small portion of chicken or fish (for non-vegetarians)

Herbal tea or warm milk before bed

Essential Nutrients for Recovery

1. Protein: Helps rebuild muscles and tissues. Found in lentils, eggs, milk, paneer, tofu, and fish.
2. Healthy Fats: Improves hormone balance and brain health. Found in nuts, seeds, olive oil, and avocados.
3. Carbohydrates: Provide energy. Whole grains, rice, and fruits are good choices.
4. Vitamins and Minerals: Iron, calcium, zinc, and B-vitamins are crucial for energy and mood.
5. Hydration: Drinking enough water, juices, or soups to maintain electrolyte balance.

Recovery and Prevention Tips

Don’t skip meals – eat small, frequent portions.

Avoid comparing yourself with others; every body type is unique.

Build self-esteem – focus on your strengths, not just appearance.

Limit social media exposure that promotes unrealistic body images.

Seek professional help early if you notice warning signs.

Engage in relaxation activities like yoga, meditation, or journaling.

Involve family and friends in your recovery process.

Conclusion

Anorexia Nervosa is more than just an eating problem — it’s a deep psychological battle that affects both the body and the mind. Recognizing it early and seeking professional help can save lives. Treatment requires patience, support, and self-compassion. Recovery is not about perfection or appearance; it’s about learning to love and nourish your body again.

If you or someone you know shows signs of anorexia, reach out for help immediately. With the right care, emotional support, and nutrition, a healthy and happy life after anorexia is absolutely possible.