Confused..

[FruitCat5]

I'm not sure if I have the best relationship with food. Whenever I feel full I have this horrible feeling that I'm either going to gain a ton of weight or I feel that I've failed losing weight, so to prevent that most days I just eat apples and crackers or carrots and spinach leaves,or low calorie things. Everyday I try for atleast 500-800 calories a day and I freak if I eat over 900 and most days I just drink water. Everynow and then I'll try for just 300 calories but my mom will notice. I just mainly hate the feeling after eating  something "bad". I wouldnt say I'm "obsessed" with losing weight but my "visual goal" is just to be able to see my hipbones,more collar bone,a tiny waist and smaller arms and thighs. A friend said it was EDNOS,but I just see it as harmless dieting and a way to get thinner quicker. Was my friend right?

[stressed8]

I would say this sounds like you are in the beginnings of an eating disorder,especially if you are starting to worry about it (by posting here) I too got feelings about if my relationship with food but ignored them,wanting to get to a certain weight..I'd say stop now and get professional help.Listen to any alarm bells.This sounds like it runs deeper than weight,which you might not be able to work out right now but by seeking professional help will help you to adress.Trust me you won't be happy when you reach the point of seeing your hipbones..your want to see more and more results.I wasted years through eating disorders,don't let it take a grip.It is as bad as any addiction.Be happy,love yourself whatever.Good luck

[Patricia Pitts, PhD]

I would be unable to offer a diagnosis without having done a comprehensive consultation.  What I do know is the body needs a certain amount of nourishment through-out the day to function at it’s optimum.  When our minds is telling the body what to do, an individual get further and further away from listening to the cues the body sends to tell of hunger and thirst.  When individuals eat 3 meals and 2 snacks a day is when I see effective change.  To do so, it often takes addressing one’s feelings directly and finding effective coping skills.  It’s not about food, weight and appearance.  It’s about connecting with your feelings and need; connecting in relationships effectively; addressing underlying issues; and connecting with a meaning for ones’ life.  Seeking professional help could help you work out some of these issues.  Best wishes, Patricia Pitts, PhD
The Bella Vita  Los Angeles, CA