Anemia has made recovery from my eating disorder harder than I expected. I’m already trying to challenge old food rules, and then the fatigue, dizziness, and shortness of breath make eating feel even more complicated. Some days I can’t tell if I’m feeling anxious about food or just physically worn out.
The low energy also makes basic things feel like work. Planning meals, grocery shopping, cooking, even sitting down to eat can seem overwhelming when I’m exhausted. It’s frustrating because I know my body needs steady nutrition, but the symptoms can make that feel like another thing I’m failing at.
I’m working with my doctor and treatment team to address the anemia instead of trying to push through it. I’ve found it helps to keep easy foods around and focus on consistency rather than making every meal perfect. Recovery is already difficult, and being physically depleted adds another layer to it.
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Eddie, the part about not knowing whether it’s anxiety or physical exhaustion sounds especially confusing. I’ve had times when low energy made ordinary decisions feel much bigger than they were, so it makes sense that meals would feel harder under that strain.
Keeping easy foods available and aiming for consistency instead of perfection sounds practical. Working with your doctor and treatment team rather than trying to push through is a strong step too. You’re not failing because your body needs extra support right now.
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@Edwin_West, that point about ordinary decisions feeling much bigger when energy is low really hits home. When I’m depleted, even choosing between two simple options can feel like a problem that needs solving.
I’ve had some luck preparing one dependable meal ahead of time, so I’m not making that decision while already worn out. It doesn’t fix everything, but it takes one bit of pressure off.