Dear aunt 47,
Usually the use of sour candy is a way to serve the eating disorder. It can stave off hunger and keep the obsession about eating alive and well. If a bulimic patient is asking you to bring sour candy to him or her, I would ask the treatment team if it’s appropriate/therapeutic. I would not advise it.
For more information on eating disorders, visit the bella vita website.
Best,
Dr Patricia Pitts
The Bella Vita
Los Angeles, CA
I have heard that some residential treatment centers will give them sour candy to help with the swollen glands. Is that what you are referring to?