Holistic Benefits of Recovering From an Eating Disorder
- mae
- Jul 26, 2023
- 3 min read
I am sure you have heard it before, but I will say it again (and explain it thoroughly). Recovery gives so much more than just a better relationship with food. It not only physically puts your body in the state it can healthily live in, but it also provides you with so many more mental and physical benefits. The recovery process aims to address toxic issues and promote overall health and wellness. So, what are some of these benefits?
Want to hear more? Prefer listening over reading? Listen here!
Physical health:
One of the most apparent benefits of recovery is improved physical health. Time to end that malnutrition, hormone imbalances, and other physiological effects. During recovery, your body begins to heal, and individuals can experience increased energy levels, better digestion, healthier skin, and improved immune function.
Mental and emotional well-being:
Eating disorders often have underlying psychological factors, including low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and body image issues. In recovery, individuals have the opportunity to address and work through these challenges, thus reducing levels of anxiety and depression and improving self-confidence and self-worth.
Imagine life without having to skip meals, working out to "earn" meals, checking menus before you go to a restaurant, and skipping outings with your friends because it interferes with your restrictive regimen.
Relationship with food and social relationships:
Recovery allows individuals to establish a healthier and more balanced relationship with food. They can learn to appreciate food as nourishment and enjoyment rather than viewing it as a source of guilt or fear. Recovery allows you to reconnect with happy memories instead of toxic calorie counting.
Can look like this:
- listening to your cravings --> less bingeing
- trying new cuisines
- eating food that others cook for you (and being grateful they're there to help you out)
Cognitive function:
Malnutrition and dehydration resulting from eating disorders can affect cognitive abilities such as concentration, memory, and decision-making. As the body and brain receive adequate nourishment during recovery, cognitive function can improve, leading to clearer thinking and increased mental clarity.
Before I recovered and even during recovery, I remember having the hardest time with focusing on my schoolwork. It took all my stress and energy just to complete one task without getting wrapped up in my thoughts about food, calories, guilt, and body image. I kept walking to my mirror just to pick apart my body instead of dissecting my history homework. Plus, I was addicted to my phone and social media. Safe to say that recovery has definitely helped my productivity and cognitive function.
Life fulfillment:
Eating disorders can consume a person's life, leaving little room for personal growth and pursuing passions. In recovery, individuals have the opportunity to rediscover their interests and aspirations, leading to a more fulfilling and purposeful life.
Long-term health prospects:
Left untreated, eating disorders can lead to severe health complications and even be life-threatening. By seeking help and embarking on the recovery process, individuals can significantly improve their long-term health prospects and reduce the risk of serious medical issues associated with eating disorders.
You don't want to have brittle bones, malnourished skin, or a wavering balance when you grow older, do you? EDs can make us weak. Recovery makes us mentally and physically stronger. We fuel ourselves better. Less afraid to gain some muscle and healthy weight. It all works out in the end.
Disclaimer:
It's important to note that the recovery process is unique to each individual, and it may involve ups and downs. Professional help, including therapy, medical support, and a strong support system, can play a vital role in the recovery journey. Celebrating small victories and practicing self-compassion are also essential components of a successful recovery from an eating disorder.
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