The Connection Between Eating Disorders and Gut Health
Eating disorders significantly impact gut health, leading to digestive issues, altered gut bacteria, and long-term gastrointestinal (GI) complications. The relationship between the gut and the brain (gut-brain axis) means that disordered eating not only affects digestion but also mood, anxiety, and mental health. Understanding this connection can help improve treatment, symptom management, and recovery.
Nutrition and Recovery: How Diet Plays a Role in Healing from Eating Disorders
Proper nutrition is a cornerstone in the treatment and recovery of pediatric eating disorders. Diet plays a multifaceted role in healing by addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of these disorders. Establishing balanced, nourishing eating habits not only repairs the body but also supports emotional and cognitive recovery.
When Are Eating Disorders Treated in the ER?
Most patients with eating disorders are treated outpatient or in specialized programs (like IOP or residential). However, a trip to the emergency room may be necessary when there's a medical emergency or acute safety risk, including:
Why It’s Important to See Your Dentist if You Have an Eating Disorder
Whether you're struggling with anorexia, bulimia, ARFID, or another form of disordered eating, your oral health is part of your overall health — and your dentist can play an important role in early detection and long-term healing.
Are water flavoring packets bad for you?
Water flavoring packets (like Crystal Light, Mio, Propel, or store brands) are small, often powdered or liquid sachets you mix into water to add flavor — usually with little or no sugar.
They can be helpful for:
People who struggle to drink plain water
Kids or teens in recovery from eating disorders who need encouragement to hydrate
Avoiding sugary sodas or juice
When Do You Need a Higher Level of Care for an Eating Disorder? How to Know When Outpatient Treatment Isn't Enough
Eating disorder recovery isn’t one-size-fits-all. Some people do well with weekly outpatient therapy and dietitian support. Others need more intensive care to break free from the cycle of disordered behaviors, restore physical health, and feel emotionally safe enough to heal.
If you're wondering whether it’s time to consider a higher level of care — like intensive outpatient (IOP), partial hospitalization (PHP), residential, or inpatient treatment — you're not alone.