Amanda is an 18-year-old with anorexia nervosa. She was recently admitted to an eating disorders clinic with a BMI of 13.9, and although she was a voluntary patient, she was reluctant about the treatment. She was convinced that she was overweight because her clothes felt tight on her. She complained that even her hands and feet “were fat.” One of her nurses explained that a protein in her blood was low. The nurse further explained that, as difficult as it may be to believe, eating a normal healthy diet would make the “fat hands and feet” go away 

Case study, chapter 8, disorders of fluid, electrolyte, and acid–base

Individuals with anorexia often experience distorted perceptions of body weight and may believe they are obese when, in reality, they are underweight. It may lead to a lack of motivation to seek treatment as the individual does not feel the need to put on weight.

The nurse’s explanation about the low protein in Amanda’s blood is likely related to malnutrition, which is a common consequence of anorexia nervosa. In order to maintain muscle mass, it is important that you consume enough protein. A lack of this can cause muscle loss, as shown by blood tests.

The nurse’s statement that eating a normal healthy diet would make the “fat hands and feet” go away is also accurate. Amanda’s body perception may improve as she gains weight, and her body starts to rebuild muscle and fat tissues. It is also important to remember that recovering from an eating problem is a multifaceted and complex process. This often involves a holistic treatment plan that includes medical, nutrition, and psychological intervention.