| Normalizing
Metabolic Rate Through Refeeding
The
primary goal of the refeeding process is to consume adequate
nutrition which promotes the normalization of basal metabolic
rate (BMR). The first step towards raising metabolism is to
provide the body with a consistent energy intake which is at
least equivalent to your BMR, reducing the threat to your body
of starvation. An intake of additional calories to provide for
daily activity and restoration is also necessary. This explains
why energy requirements may TEMPORARILY be over 3000 calories
per day during the refeeding stage. Even 4000 is not unusual.
ENERGY
INTAKE = BMR + DAILY ACTIVITY + RESTORATION
If you
find it difficult to trust your body, remember that as food
intake increases and body weight is restored, the following
body changes will begin to occur as a sign that metabolism is
being "fired up" and nutrient stores are being replenished.
Calories will be lowered again for maintenance. Nobody will
let you get fat.
·
Increased body warmth (increased BMR)
·
Increased hunger (increased BMR)...this is scary but it's
a GOOD THING!!!
·
Improved concentration and fewer headaches (improved nutrition
status) less feelings of "I feel like I have ADD, I just
can't focus on anything!"
·
Increased blood pressure and pulse; less dizziness (improved
BMR and work output of the heart)
·
Improved muscle strength (adequate calorie intake to spare
protein for restoration of lean body tissue)
·
Restored menstrual cycle (hormone production with increased
BMR, adequate fat intake, and a healthy body weight)
·
Improved sleeping patterns (improved nutritional status).
Fall asleep and stay asleep.
·
Healthier looking skin, hair, nails and gums (increased BMR
and improved nutritional status). Missing patches of hair
grows back in. "Fuzziness" on arms and lower back
go away.
·
Decreased fatigue (improved nutritional status)
As you increase your food intake, you may also experience some
discomfort with bloating, intestinal gas, constipation and/or
diarrhea. Some people feel downright pain. Keep in mind that
these symptoms, while bothersome, (sometimes miserable), they
are TEMPORARY and will gradually resolve as your food intake
increases consistently and your body adjusts to the changes
you are making.
Also, when
weight is being restored, it usually goes to the midsection/belly
first. This is nature's way to protect the organs first. After
a few weeks (or months depending on how long someone was undernourished)
the weight will more evenly distribute.
Developed
by: Nancy Blazar RD, Melissa Knudson RD, and Lisa Merrill MS,
RD
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