Eating disorders are characterized by severe disturbances in eating behavior. The practice of an eating disorder can be
viewed as a survival mechanism. Just as an alcoholic uses alcohol to cope, a person with an eating disorder can use eating,
purging or restricting to deal with their problems.
Some of the underlying issues that are associated with an eating
disorder include low self-esteem, depression, feelings of loss of control, feelings of worthlessness, identity concerns,
family communication problems and an inability to cope with emotions.
The practice of an eating disorder may be an expression of something that the eating disordered individual has found no
other way of expressing. Eating disorders are usually divided into three categories: Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa
and Compulsive Overeating.
Millions of Americans suffer from an eating disorder. Their lives are controlled by food. Gaining or losing weight
becomes the focus of their existence. They often feel guilty, isolated, depressed and ashamed. They may be compulsively
overeating, binge purging, or starving themselves. All of them have one thing in common - they are suffering from an
eating disorder which can be fatal if left untreated.
Food Addiction
Food addiction is a contemporary term used to describe a pathological disorder; the compulsive, excessive craving for
and consumption of food. This condition is not only manifested by the abnormal intake of food, but the intake and
craving for foods that are, in themselves, harmful to the individual. While society and the medical profession have
readily understood alcoholism and drug abuse, it is only in recent years that there is an equal acceptance of the
fact that persons may be addicted to food in the same way. When any substance is taken into the body regardless of
its potential for harm or in excess of need, that substance is said to be abused. Individuals who abuse substances
in such a way are addicts; these persons become physiologically and mentally dependent upon certain substances, in
this case food.
With professional support, lifelong recovery and freedom from an
eating disorder can be achieved. The key to recovery is to understand the cause of the self-destructive behavior and
to acquire the tools to facilitate the necessary changes.
Many people with eating disorders have unsuccessfully tried to manage alone for many years and feel very discouraged.
Coming to counseling, admitting you need help, and facing the pain of the behavior that is out of control is a
tremendous first step. In the process, we work towards understanding the emotional components of your eating as well
as developing healthier eating habits.
Nutrition Therapy
Nutrition therapy is a critical component in the recovery from an eating disorder. As a Certified Clinical Nutritionist,
our psychotherapy sessions will discussions on current food intake and its adequacy to maintain health. Counseling also
includes discussions of food restrictions, self-imposed food rules and personal attributes ascribed to foods.
Nutrition work includes separating food intake and weight-related behaviors from feelings and emotional issues.
Nutrition therapy in a collaborative, caring relationship provides clients with knowledge and skills which will
feed the body for physical recovery. After that, the focus of therapy can move toward renewing a healthy self-esteem
and self-worth.
Honest understanding of current food intake and emotional associations with foods is the first step in working with a
nutritionist. Often, food records are requested. This is for evaluation of current eating habits, but also to improve
food choice to meet the minimal needs of the body. Communication between a client and her nutritionist is a first and
necessary step in developing a trusting counseling relationship. This is nutrition therapy, where honesty and caring
communication about eating develop into a safe environment for recovery from eating disorders.
Over the years, there has been tens of thousands of research studies showing
that nutrition, herbs and/or lifestyle changes can help heal psychological problems.
That's why I combine psychology, naturopathy and nutrition - so the people I work with can feel better faster
and enjoy lasting results.
My extensive knowledge and compassion for recovery helps make your process easier and successful.
For more information, please call me at (408)315-0645 or contact me online.
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Randi Fredricks ::: 1723 Hamilton Ave Suite D, San Jose, California, 95125 ::: 800-957-5655
