During the recovery phase from anorexia, weight restoration is an essential part of the process. When individuals with anorexia start to regain weight, they often need to consume a surplus of calories to allow their bodies to repair and recover from the damage caused by malnutrition. The surplus of calories is necessary to support the body's healing, including repairing organs, bones, and muscles.
Once a healthy weight is restored, the caloric intake typically needs to be adjusted to find a new maintenance level. The surplus of calories that was needed for weight restoration is usually not sustainable as a long-term maintenance level. After reaching a healthy weight, it's essential to transition to an appropriate caloric intake that supports the individual's energy needs without promoting further weight loss or weight gain.
Determining the new maintenance calories should be done gradually and with the guidance of a healthcare professional, such as a registered dietitian or eating disorder specialist. They can help create an individualized meal plan that takes into account the person's activity level, metabolism, and overall health to establish a balanced and sustainable caloric intake.
It's important to note that recovering from anorexia involves more than just weight restoration. It also involves addressing the underlying emotional, psychological, and behavioral aspects of the eating disorder. Support from a treatment team that may include a therapist, dietitian, and medical professionals is crucial to ensure a comprehensive and successful recovery journey.