What happens to your body when refeeding?

In the refeeding process, the release of insulin into the bloodstream can decrease phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, calcium and sodium levels in the bloodstream. This causes refeeding syndrome. Symptoms of refeeding syndrome include lightheadedness, fatigues, a drop in blood pressure and a drop in heart rate.

How long does anorexia refeed?

Recovering from refeeding syndrome depends on the severity of malnourishment before food was reintroduced. Refeeding may take up to 10 days, with monitoring afterward.

How do you recover from refeeding syndrome?

People with refeeding syndrome need to regain normal levels of electrolytes. Doctors can achieve this by replacing electrolytes, usually intravenously. Replacing vitamins, such as thiamine, can also help to treat certain symptoms. A person will need continued vitamin and electrolyte replacement until levels stabilize.

What is anorexia refeeding?

Refeeding syndrome (RS) is one of the serious complications during treatment of anorexia nervosa. It includes hormonal and metabolic changes that occur during the process of refeeding in chronically malnourished patient when nutrition is introduced in an excessive and improper amount.

What does it feel like to refeed after an Eating Disorder Relapse?

This initial period of refeeding often is associated with a feeling of “wrongness” that you are not listening to body cues. The eating disorder logic/fear of “once it starts it will never stop” can be present, in an attempt to thwart recovery.

What is the target BMI for recovery from anorexia nervosa?

Most experts agree that a minimum target body mass index (BMI) of 19-21 is needed for long term recovery from anorexia nervosa. Despite the importance of weight restoration, about 50\% of inpatients with anorexia nervosa who reach target weight relapse, and may require repeat admission.

What is anorexia renourishment?

However, renoursihment is actually the process of reintroducing food to people who are malnourished or starved such as those who suffer from Anorexia Nervosa. Renourishment is conducted slowly and monitored diligently in an attempt to prevent consequences of refeeding syndrome.

What are the chances of relapse in anorexia nervosa?

Despite the importance of weight restoration, about 50\% of inpatients with anorexia nervosa who reach target weight relapse, and may require repeat admission. The highest risk for relapse is during the first year following weight restoration (Carter et al., 2012).