August 2, 2022
February 1-7 is Eating Disorders Awareness Week. Having worked with numerous people to help them with their physical and mental health, we have come across quite a few people with a history of eating disorders.
At least 1 out of 5 of our female clients have had some form of eating disorder. That is a large number considering 90% of our clients are women from ages 25-45. The statistics in Canada are alarming.
There are various forms of eating disorders and numerous causes including obsession with weight, body-image issues, social influences and in some cases even demands of the sports.
For this blog we are going to focus on the top 4 supplements to manage any eating disorders.
ZINC – Deficiency of the mineral zinc is very common in North America. Some of the issues associated with deficiency of zinc are:
- Low energy levels and chronic fatigue
- Increased body fat around the chest and waist
- Digestive issues (you need zinc to make stomach acids that break food down)
- Reduced libido
- Fertility issues
- Accelerates aging
- Thinning hair
- Dry skin and other skin issues
- Brittle nails
- Bad memory and inability to focus
- Weak immune system
- Higher risk of developing cancers
For people with eating disorders, the antioxidant properties of zinc helps eliminate heavy metals from the brain (heavy metals have been linked to a number of neurological disorders). As a result it promotes the healthy functioning of the brain along with improving moods and behaviors.
Like any supplement it is important to use the right type of nutrient at the right dosage as well as making sure it is bioavailable – that is to say you body must be able to absorb and use it.
The most effective zinc supplement we have used is UberZinc or Liquid Zinc.
GLUTAMINE
Almost every person with an eating disorder has a leaky gut issue. This is when food molecules pass into the bloodstream through the walls of the intestine. An unhealthy gut is related to poor brain function.
First we test clients for food sensitivities using Rocky Mountain Labs. Once we know which foods are causing inflammation and contributing to the disorder, we replace them with anti-inflammatory foods along with nutrients to seal the gut lining. One of these nutrients being glutamine.
We recommend 1 tbsp 3-6 times a day depending on the individual’s situation.
FISH OIL
One of the most powerful nutrients we have used to improve moods and mental health is fish oil. For eating disorders, we choose fish oil that is higher in DHA than EPA. Fish oil with higher DHA promotes better gut health by killing dangerous bacterial infections in the gut.
The gut can produce neurotransmitters (brain chemicals that transmit information throughout the brain and body) when it is not inflamed and infected.
DHA is also a natural component of the brain without which the nervous systems is not as effective.
Dosage can range from 10-45 gms daily.
INOSITOL
Inositol is a calorie-free form of sugar extracted from citrus fruits, nuts and other plant sources. People with obsessive or addictive thoughts have low inositol levels in the brain.
2 – 10 gms of inositol about 30 minutes before bed calms the brain and induces deep quality sleep.
Every individual has a unique chemistry and we recommend nutrition and supplement protocols based on their Biosignature hormone scan. But the above 4 supplements to manage any eating disorders are extremely effective.
To get your Biosignature and customized protocols, email us at info@belite.ca/wp
For more information on support for people with eating disorders, please visit http://www.nedic.ca/
