Eating disorder?

Ok, I have finally come to the realization that I have an eating problem. I am 20 years old 95 lbs and 5"3. I want to add on maybe 5 pounds, but I dont want to overwhelm myself and start cutting my calories again. About how many calories should I try to start eating per day? Also, what should I eat? I don't want to eat junk food, not because I fear it will make me fat, but rather it just makes me feel crappy. Thanks for any help, I just want to get through this.

Sometimes being "too skinny" can be just as difficult a problem to solve as being "too fat." Achieving a desirable body weight and shape involves changes in lifestyle 鈥?including diet, exercise and behaviors that support health.

Keep in mind that heredity influences body shape and weight. If your parents and siblings are slender, you're more likely to be slender too. It may be helpful to know whether you are truly underweight or you just think you're too skinny. Your doctor can get you started by providing you with healthy goals and tips.

If you're trying to gain weight, eat a well-balanced diet that includes whole grains, vegetables, fruits, low-fat dairy products and lean protein sources, such as fish, poultry, beans and legumes. You will likely need to add some fats and sugars to your diet for extra calories. When you add fats, choose unsaturated fats, such as nuts and oils. When adding sugars, select sweets that also provide nutrients, such as bran muffins, yogurt, fruit pies or juice, and granola bars.

Eating three meals a day plus between-meal snacks on a regular basis will add the calories you need to gain weight, as well as the balance and variety you need in your diet. You don't necessarily need protein drinks or shakes to gain weight. But these can provide extra calories if you feel like you are eating all that you can.

If you are at a healthy weight but still would like to gain weight, strength training can help increase lean muscle mass and add weight. Strength training is also good for your overall health.

Develop a program of exercises that includes all the major muscle groups in your upper and lower body, and trunk. Proper technique is key. Select a weight that tires your muscle at about 15 to 20 repetitions when first starting. As you progress, try for one set of 12 repetitions about three times a week.

Remember, changes in weight and body shape take time. If you want more individualized dietary advice on gaining weight, consult with a licensed or registered dietitian. Also, a certified trainer can help you get started with a strength training program.

I've had anorexia and bulimia since 2005. For about three months, i was doing okay. Now, I am going back to my old habits and have lost 10 lbs and a dress size in 10 days ( maybe less ) and yeah.... an eating disorder is hard to overcome but I have got to get down to 85 lbs ( I am 5'5" ) the lowest i have been is 90 lbs and that was in Jan 2006.
It doesnt have to be all that hard...at dinner, eat everything on your plate, and if there is somthing that you extra-specially like, then have a 2nd helping of it!!! A little effort every dday will help you!

Hope this helps!

--Alex
13
If you have an eating disorder, you need to consult a physician before any decision you make. It's a tricky thing, weight. Your doctor can give you the diet and exercise program you need for the problems you have. Good luck with this... I know how hard it is!
Try protein drinks and lifting weights to gain muscles and gain weight sensibly. Eat healthy as well. You need to concentrate on taking care of your body or it can't take care of you.
http://www.buildsize.com/
Lowfat dairy is a good choice. You get all the nutrients but not the artery clogging fat... peanut butter is good, oatmeal, ice cream, lots of fruits and vegetables, lean meats like chicken and turkey. The trick is to start slowly because if you haven't eaten normally for a while it will take a while for your body to adjust to eating more food. You can make yourself sick by eating too much too.