Alternative Approaches to Treat Eating Disorders

When dealing with eating disorders, I think an approach using alternative medicine can be beneficial. As of right now, I am using all of the suggestions in this article to combat issues that I have due to poor body image.

This first alternative approach I have to help treat an eating disorder is to keep a food journal. Many people who suffer from eating disorders have a bad relationship with food. Some feel guilty after eating. In order to recover, it is important to understand which foods make you feel this way. After each meal, write down what you ate and how it made you feel. This will allow you to pinpoint which foods make you feel guilty. For example, if pizza makes you feel guilty you can try having only one slice of pizza combined with a salad and see it that yields better results in your journal the next time.

Another alternative approach that I am taking is yoga classes. Yoga is good for people with eating disorders because it helps you learn to respect your body. When you do yoga, you will be amazed when you realize that one day you can't do a pose but when you try it the next day you can. People with eating disorders neglect their bodies, and yoga should help them overcome this barrier and begin to appreciate what their bodies do for them everyday.

The next idea I have as an alternative approach to treating eating disorders comes from a website called Somethingfishy.org. This website has excellent advice and support for people who are recovering from eating disorders. They recommend having a "coping bank". The first step in creating a coping bank is to get a shoebox and decorate it however you would like. Next, write down good things about yourself on sheets of paper and place them in the shoebox. You can also write down alternatives for coping with your feelings other than reverting back you your eating disorder. An example of an alternative coping method would be "writing in my journal" or "taking a hot shower".

Many people who suffer from eating disorders find it helpful to meet with a nutritionist. This is helpful because it allows you to realize that what you might think is unhealthy is actually not that bad for you. It also makes sure that you get all of the nutrients and vitamins that you need. A nutritionist will also be able to help you make sure you consume the correct amount of calories each day.

The final alternative approach I have for treating an eating disorder is to meet with a personal trainer. Some people who suffer from eating disorders workout too much, and a personal trainer will help design a custom workout specifically for you. This will ensure that you are not working out too much and it will help you gain strength. Working out also helps you learn to respect your body, which is an important part in treating your disease.

I hope all of these alternative approaches are helpful to you in your recovery. Although you may be prescribed medication, I believe that nothing can be more beneficial than actual behavior changes. Good luck!