Anorexia is an eating disorder that involves a severe restriction of caloric intake. People with anorexia typically have a distorted body image and an intense fear of gaining weight, and they may also engage in other unhealthy behaviors, such as excessive exercise, to limit their calorie intake. While the exact number of calories that someone with anorexia consumes can vary depending on the severity of their disorder, it is typically very low.
Calorie Intake in Anorexia
The average daily caloric intake for someone with anorexia is typically between 800 and 1,200 calories. This number can be significantly lower, however, depending on the severity of the disorder. People with anorexia may restrict their intake to as little as 400 to 600 calories per day, often leading to severe malnutrition and health complications.
Nutritional Deficiencies in Anorexia
In addition to consuming too few calories, people with anorexia may also be at risk of developing nutritional deficiencies due to their restricted diets. This is especially true for those who restrict their caloric intake to less than 1,000 calories per day. Such deficiencies can lead to a wide range of health problems, including muscle weakness, fatigue, anemia, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, and other serious complications.
Treatment for Anorexia
Treatment for anorexia typically involves a combination of nutritional counseling, psychotherapy, medication, and other strategies. The goal of treatment is to help the person restore a healthy body weight and to teach them healthier behaviors and attitudes about food and body image. In some cases, hospitalization may be necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of the person with anorexia.