Anorexia Diet Plan: Meal plan for anorexia recovery

In the journey of recovering from anorexia nervosa (AN), having a structured, balanced meal plan can be a crucial component in the healing process. Our Anorexia Diet Plan is designed to support individuals in recovery by offering a guideline for meals that are both nutrient-dense and manageable for someone rebuilding their relationship with food.

It is important to note that anorexia is primarily a mental health disorder with significant physical symptoms. Therefore, any diet or meal plan should be used in conjunction with a comprehensive treatment plan led by health professionals. This includes a doctor, an eating disorder (ED) dietitian, and a psychologist who will help guide the recovery journey safely and effectively.

 

Meal Plan Overview

This meal plan provides approximately 2700-2900 calories per day, a range that may vary depending on the individual's weight, stage of recovery, and overall health needs. It’s essential to understand that each person’s caloric requirement in recovery is different. Patients may require adjustments to ensure safe weight gain without triggering refeeding syndrome.

Key Features:

- Balanced meals: Carbohydrates, fats, and proteins are included in each meal to provide a well-rounded intake.

- Nutrient-dense options: Incorporates a variety of nutrient-dense foods to support the body’s healing.

- Treat foods: "Fear foods" such as sweets are gradually introduced in a controlled manner to help rebuild a healthy relationship with food.

 

Caloric Requirements in Anorexia Recovery

The number of calories required during anorexia recovery can vary significantly based on the patient's starting weight, severity of the disorder, and their physical and mental response to refeeding. According to studies, some individuals may need between 70-100 calories per kilogram of body weight to meet their energy needs. For example, a patient weighing 40 kg might need around 2800 calories per day to reach the recommended intake of 70 calories per kilogram.

Learn more about nutritional rehabilitation in AN recovery here.

 

Sample Meal Plan

Here’s a typical day from our Anorexia Diet Plan. Remember, this is a guideline and should be tailored to the individual’s needs by a qualified health professional:

Breakfast: Oatmeal with Banana and Peanut Butter

- Calories: 461 kcal

- Nutritional Breakdown: 17g fat, 81g carbohydrates, 15g protein

- Nutrient Benefits: Provides a solid balance of carbs for energy, healthy fats, and protein to kick-start the day.

Morning Snack: Yogurt, Apple, and Granola

- Calories: 630 kcal

- Nutritional Breakdown: 21g fat, 78g carbohydrates, 29g protein

- Nutrient Benefits: Protein-rich snack to maintain energy and support muscle recovery.

Lunch: Chicken & Veg Wrap

- Calories: 659 kcal

- Nutritional Breakdown: 34g fat, 52g carbohydrates, 36g protein

- Nutrient Benefits: Balanced meal with lean protein, healthy fats, and fiber-rich vegetables.

Afternoon Snack: Banana Peanut Butter Smoothie

- Calories: 458 kcal

- Nutritional Breakdown: 19g fat, 57g carbohydrates, 17g protein

- Nutrient Benefits: A creamy, nutrient-dense option to keep energy levels steady throughout the day.

Dinner: Spaghetti Bolognaise

- Calories: 567 kcal

- Nutritional Breakdown: 13g fat, 65g carbohydrates, 51g protein

- Nutrient Benefits: A hearty, protein-packed meal ideal for rebuilding strength and muscle mass.

Evening Snack: Vanilla Ice Cream with Biscoff Biscuits

- Calories: 390 kcal

- Nutritional Breakdown: 16g fat, 55g carbohydrates, 7g protein

- Nutrient Benefits: Incorporating a treat helps in reducing fear around specific foods and encourages a balanced approach to eating.

 

Tips for Recovery with Meal Plans

1. Establish Regular Meal and Snack Times

While flexibility is important, having regular eating intervals supports digestion and creates structure. This helps individuals recovering from anorexia maintain consistent energy levels throughout the day.

2. Include Nutrient-Dense and Treat Foods

Incorporating both nutrient-dense meals and small treat foods daily is crucial. This helps improve the client's relationship with food while meeting their nutritional needs.

3. Balanced Meals and Snacks

Ensure that each meal includes a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, and that snacks consist of at least two of these macronutrients to maintain energy and nutrient balance.

4. Addressing Food Fears

Many individuals with anorexia have specific "fear foods" they avoid. A gradual approach to overcoming these fears can help improve their relationship with food. Encourage clients to create a list of their fear foods and introduce them slowly in a supportive environment.

5. Slowly Increase Portion Sizes

If clients are struggling to gain weight or still feel physically or emotionally hungry, increase portion sizes or add more snacks to their plan. However, the initial plan may need to start at a lower calorie amount to prevent refeeding syndrome before gradually increasing.

6. Monitor Progress and Adjust

Regularly check the client’s weight, nutrient status, and mental health, and adjust the meal plan based on their progress. This will ensure that they are moving toward a healthy weight and mindset.

7. Personalize the Plan

Recovery is smoother when clients enjoy the meals they are consuming. Encourage open communication to ensure clients are honest about their preferences and work to include meals they look forward to.

 

Final Notes

This Anorexia Diet Plan is meant as a general guideline for nutritional rehabilitation and should be adjusted to fit the unique needs of each client. Ensure you collaborate with a team of health professionals to safely guide recovery and monitor for any signs of refeeding syndrome. Ultimately, the plan is designed to aid weight restoration, restore a healthy relationship with food, and promote long-term recovery.