What is the Anorexic Diet?

Controversial as it might be, the anorexic diet is being promoted around the world as a potential weight loss program for non-sufferers. This diet is causing more shockwaves than any other and a “secret anorexic diet book” is rumored to be available on the market. Although it has already been ruled out by many experts as dangerous, others are looking into how it works, and if it can be used for rapid weight loss.

What is the Anorexic Diet?

As many already know, anorexia nervosa is an eating condition where patients experience significant weight loss from eating too few calories. This condition is often linked to psychological disorders such as low self-esteem and depression. It is a common misconception that anorexic people do not eat at all. It is true that anorexic patients tend to “fast” on some days, but on most days, a diet extremely low in calories is consumed. Therefore, the anorexic diet is an extremely low-calorie meal plan that might include days of fasting.

How Does the Anorexic Diet Work?

The anorexic diet is often called the “five bite” meal plan. This is because the general rule is to take five bites of any food of your choice for breakfast, lunch and supper. In other words, if you choose to eat an apple for breakfast, for instance, you take five bites and discontinue eating. Those five bites constitute a meal. Calories usually do not exceed 500, which is dangerously low amount compared to the daily requirement of 1200.

What Can You Eat On The Anorexic Diet?

Five bites is very little food. This is why anorexic diet promoters advise participants to take bites of the healthiest foods as possible. Healthy foods can be protein sources like meats and eggs, or fatty options like fish, nuts, yoghurt and avocadoes. Other healthy choices can include vegetable or fruity dishes for vitamins. Some, however, prefer to carb-load to feel more energetic during the diet.

If, for any reason, your physician suggests it might be a good idea to try this diet, avoid processed or sugar-loaded foods as much as possible. Sugary and processed foods might give you energy temporarily, but the body processes them so quickly you will be hungry again in no time. Vitamin and fiber supplements also come highly recommended.

Does the Anorexic Diet Work?

It might. The weight loss experienced by anorexic patients is proof that it is effective. However, losing weight this way might not be as easy as it looks. First of all, there is a concept that your body can slip into the “starvation mode”. This is when the body becomes shocked at the sudden low supply of food and retains fat for survival. Studies have shown that it is not uncommon for people to gain weight when there are sudden changes in diet.

Another factor worth considering is damage to your health. The recommended minimum calorie intake of 1200 for women and 1500 for men is based on scientific research. Research states that the body needs these calories daily for the body to carry out basic processes, and to support vital organs.

The anorexic diet is by far one of the riskiest meal plans you can adopt. Not only does it require a drastic decrease in calories, but the calories are also not enough to sustain body function. Anorexic patients usually suffer a slew of illnesses and conditions, which is expected on this diet as well. If you’ve been considering this diet, run it past your doctor for expert advice.