[albrecht86]

Hello, I am struggling with Anorexia and working on getting a therapist/nutritionist so while that is happening I am trying to take things in my hands. Sadly, even though I love cooking, I discovered my ED destroyed my ability to cook properly even when I try my best! Half the time I end up under-eating or having a wrong mix of carb/protein/fat/veggies etc.leading to feeling extremely constipated/bloated/sleepy/depressed after the meal. I feel like I have lost the ability to judge and compose a "normal" meal for myself (and even taken to buying pre-made meals/eating out just to ensure it is properly balanced mix of nutrients, which do not cause the above issues).

I need to re-learn what a proper "plate" looks like - does anyone have any links for "normal" meal plans I can use as a guide? Even if it's just photos so I can gauge what my plate should look like. I am refraining from using recipes as it's hard to judge portion size and many of them are of of questionable healthiness (a big trigger for me, so I would rather avoid it).

I know everyone has different needs, but I at least need a good reference (I am mid twenties male, fairly short and skinny wtih moderate exercise (love biking!) Thank you for your help!

[DePressMe]

I don't have any special sites for pictures of meals but I upped my veggies and fruit (apples every day.) Eating a high fiber content helped with constipation and which then helped bloating because things moved thru my system. You can also get laxatives to help with the constipation which will then help the bloating. I use seina because its a natural product (vegetable based). BUT, if you are anorexic be careful that you don't become dependent on the laxatives instead of the high fiber diet. And I had to drink lotsa water....D.

[albrecht86]

Thank you for your reply but that's actually been part of my ANA problems - I actually eat a TON of veggies/fruits (very healthy) to the point of not getting enough of other things like full grains, fats or protein, which is why my energy has been oftentimes so low. I've been forcing myself to cut down on the veggies and up the rice and fat in my stir-fries, for instance, and I've actually been doing much better (less bloat, more energy).

But it's hard... I feel like I completely need to re-learn what a "balanced meal" is all over again

[SingDanceRunLife]

Originally Posted by albrecht86

Thank you for your reply but that's actually been part of my ANA problems - I actually eat a TON of veggies/fruits (very healthy) to the point of not getting enough of other things like full grains, fats or protein, which is why my energy has been oftentimes so low. I've been forcing myself to cut down on the veggies and up the rice and fat in my stir-fries, for instance, and I've actually been doing much better (less bloat, more energy).

But it's hard... I feel like I completely need to re-learn what a "balanced meal" is all over again

I totally know how you feel. I'll ask my nutritionist of a copy of the list she has that says how much of each thing you should have each day. It's really helpful.

[unaluna]

I've been looking for the same thing. Seems like nobody wants to commit! I've seen like:
50% veg and fruit
25% protein
25% starch
In terms of plate proportions.

And add a glass of milk or a yogurt or some cheese. That would be a full meal.

Personally im just trying to watch my quantity to where I dont feel so full after I eat. Cuz im not good at portion sizes, and im not good at stopping. So I am just really working on figuring out the right portion size for me and fixing just that much. And not going too long between meals because if I get too hungry, I dont eat the proper foods. I'll eat richer food.