mooly-
how old is your stepdaughter? and what eating disorder does she have? i am a 21 y/o female who has suffered with every major form of eating disorders over the past 4 years or so. i, too, have been to counseling upon my parents request. i did learn some valuable things during that experience that your daughter may not be willing to share with you. i'd be glad to share my experiences and what i know with you- I just need to know how old she is and what she has....there is also a book that my therapist gave me to read. i can't think of the name, but im gonna search for it and let ya know!
-ks

Hi Mooly,

First I just want to say that I'm so sorry that you have to go through this....and if your stepdaughter truly has an eating disorder, please do not be angry with her and know that she is not doing this to intentionally hurt anyone else... whew, ok just had to get that off my chest. Most parents get so frustrated with a daughter who has an ED that it comes off as anger, which only fuels an already ugly situation, but really it's just because they don't understand "how" she could be this way. If you actually want to understand the depths of eating disorders, I would really recommend that you read "Wasted" by Marya Hornbacher. It isn't a book aimed at recovery- it is simply one girl's story of a lifelong battle with anorexia and bulimia..but overall, it REALLY helps provide some explanation for why an ED could develop..and it will let you have a truly eye-opening look at everything from inside the perspective of someone WITH an eating disorder. I've had atypical ED-NOS/Anorexia for the past 4 years, and I recently read this book and was finally able to put some reasoning behind my behaviors, realize that I do have a problem, I cannot deny it to myself anymore, and that there is hope for semi-recovery in the future... even though it's important to also know that an ED is a lifelong battle. Even if someone gets "healthy"..she still must be treated gently, because she'll always be prone to relapsing. *question- how long has this ED been going on? or, I should say- how long have you known about it? If you do decide to buy "Wasted" though, don't show it to your step-daughter or let her read it...it is VERY triggering for someone with an ED, and it won't be beneficial if she reads it while in recovery. I bought my copy at Barnes & Noble for $15. There are other books out there that are aimed specifically at recovery...but they aren't always realistic, and they won't help you understand the way that she thinks. I will let you know of any good ones if I find some though.
I hope that she is open to recovery & somewhat receptive...and I hope that you find the patience to get through this.... be strong!
Feel free to ask any questions if you need help or advice...

-Amanda

Mooly- I totally agree with seangel. As hard and shocking as it may be that your daughter has an ED, try your best to not let it come across as anger or disappointment in HER (vs. just plain disappointment). I have struggled with various forms of ED's, and my parents' reactions to the situation only made it worse. And because of that, I no longer have a relationship with them. It is SO important that you comfort her, listen to her, and try to understand where she is coming from (even though it may not make sense to you, try).

Hello,

Mineral deficiencies such as chromium and vanadium deficiency lead to intense carb and sweet cravings...

Magnesium deficiency also cause the person NOT to be able to relax internally and may overeat to make themself numb and tired.

Potassium Defiency can cause the body to retain alot of water do to damage done to the kidney from soda, caffeine, acidic foods, or Bulimia.

Please look for a good quality vitamin/mineral liquid supplement in your local healthfood store.

If you cannot find one CELTIC Sea Salt will help also because it has alot of minerals, but she will still need vitamins.

Becoming a RAW FOOD EATER is great because you can eat alot more and not gain any weight. It cures constipation and irritable bowl. It has helped many battle Depression because finally they are more balanced and alkaline. It tastes great too.

http://www.living-foods.com/recipes/
http://www.eatraw.com/index.asp

This place for mediation cd's makes meditation deeper and more effective. Addictions can be conquered using this technique.

http://www.centerpointe.com/index.php?page=articles

Please see my other post above for information on Emotional Freedom Technique- EFT. It is also helpful.

Don't give up, its a complicated issue. Just do the best you can and take it one day at a time!

Blessings,
WhiteIris

Hi Mooley,
I was wandering how your step-daughter is? If you would like to e-mail me, please do. I've had eating disorders for years, so may be able to tell you a few things. I would say I'm now 98% there, (goodness knows when you can truthfully say 100%!). All the best.