Obesity and Eating Disorders - Anorexia Nervosa Naturopathic Approach Flashcards
Q: What is a key consideration when providing nutritional therapy for AN clients?
A: Always work as part of an integrated team with the client’s permission to share feedback. Be mindful of the “three entities” in the consultation: you, the client, and the condition.
Q: What are the broad aims of naturopathic nutrition for AN clients?
A:
Prioritize feeding the brain.
Build rapport and trust.
Focus on nutrients and health rather than calories and weight.
Help redefine the client’s relationship with food.
Correct nutritional deficiencies.
Q: Why should terminology be carefully chosen during consultations with AN clients?
A: Certain words can be triggering.
Trigger Words: Weight, calories, fats, weight gain.
Alternatives: Health, nutrients, lipids, health restored.
Q: What is the realistic goal for weight gain in AN clients?
A: Traditional targets of 0.5–1 kg per week are unrealistic. Focus on gradual, step-by-step changes to diversify food intake and prioritize health over BMI.
Q: Why is it important not to trick or lie about the nutritional content of food with AN clients?
A: Trust is essential in building the relationship and in helping the client rebuild trust in their own body and food choices.
Q: What types of foods are recommended for re-establishing healthy eating habits in AN clients?
A:
Energy- and nutrient-dense foods, such as nut butters, avocados, granola, and oily fish.
Warm, well-cooked, and Spleen-nourishing foods from TCM perspectives (e.g., slow-cooked meals).
Foods that introduce essential fats and support reproductive health.
Q: What is the purpose of small, frequent meals in AN recovery?
A: Reconnect the client with hunger signals and provide regular energy, even if 3 meals and 2–3 snacks are initially unachievable.
Q: What is refeeding syndrome, and why does it occur?
A: Refeeding syndrome occurs when insulin levels rise during refeeding after starvation, causing shifts in phosphate, potassium, magnesium, and water to intracellular compartments. This can lead to complications like edema and electrolyte imbalances.
Q: What supplements are recommended to support recovery in AN clients?
A:
Zinc (14–90 mg daily): Aids weight gain and reduces anxiety.
Probiotics: Improve gut health and immunity.
L-Arginine: Supports cardiovascular health and nitric oxide production.
Magnesium, B vitamins, tryptophan: Support stress, anxiety, and serotonin production.
Q: How can stress, anxiety, and depression be addressed in AN clients?
A:
Use adaptogens like ashwagandha, passionflower, and chamomile.
Include serotonin-supporting nutrients (e.g., tryptophan, magnesium, B6, probiotics).
Implement stress management techniques, such as breathing exercises.
Q: What natural therapies can support AN recovery?
A:
Bach Flower Remedies: Examples include Crab Apple (body image) and Cherry Plum (fear of losing control).
Tissue Salts: E.g., Calc Phos for weakness, Nat Mur for dry skin, and Kali Phos for nervous system depletion.
Homeopathy: E.g., China 12x for fatigue and Phos Ac 12x for emotional prostration.
Q: What is a high-calorie smoothie recipe for AN clients?
A:
1 glass plant-based milk (150 kcal)
1 tbsp chia seeds (70 kcal)
1 tbsp peanut butter (90 kcal)
1 tbsp honey (60 kcal)
1 scoop plant protein powder (80 kcal)
½ banana (50 kcal)
Handful of berries (50 kcal)
Total: 550 kcal
Q: Why are high-calorie nutrient-dense foods important in AN recovery?
A: They help meet energy needs, rebuild body stores, and support physical recovery, especially during periods of hypermetabolism when the body prioritizes repair and growth.
