Section 4 - STARVATION SYNDROME

When a person is starved of nutrition, the body responds with physical and psychological changes which are termed Starvation Syndrome.

The effects of starvation syndrome are often observed in individuals with eating disorders due to their restricted intake, irregular eating or compensatory behaviours.

Some of the changes include (but are not limited to):

• Increased anxiety

• Unable to communicate feelings

• Impaired decision making

• Rigid thoughts

• Withdrawn and disconnected to loved ones

• Changes in attitude and behaviour toward eating

Research

In the mid 1940’s the University of Minnesota examined the effects of dietary restriction and subsequent nutritional restoration which is a valuable example of the psychological and physiological effects of starvation, a key component in Anorexia Nervosa. The study also offered insight into the rehabilitation/refeeding process. These findings help us understand the process of restrictive eating and how to implement adaptive refeeding.

During the three months of the re-nourishment, most of the emotional disturbances, abnormal attitudes and behaviours toward food continued to be quite severe, particularly in the first six weeks. However, within five to nine months of re-nourishment, most men returned to normal body weight, normal eating patterns and physical, psychological and social functioning was restored.

In the same way that the effects of starvation can be seen in individuals with eating disorders such as Anorexia Nervosa, we can also identify the value of refeeding and re-nourishing in restoring biopsychosocial function. This occurs over a period of time and can be extremely challenging for the individual and their key support people, however adequate nutrition is vital to recovery.

Seeking help and having a recovery strategy will help during this time.