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Suggest Treatment For Refeeding Syndrome
Hi my 15 year old little sister is suffering with refeeding syndrome, she got to this stage as she was suffering with bulimia but went on to starving herself, she is now 6 stone, we can not get an appointment with a specialist for a couple of months :-( , how can we help her at home to reintroduce food to building her back up as she also really wants to get better now. Please help if you can
Mon, 6 Apr 2020
Hi,
Refeeding is the process of reintroducing food after malnourishment or starvation. It is generally caused by sudden shifts in the electrolytes that help your body metabolize food. It is very essential to visit your physician since hospital treatment will prevent any complications. Electrolyte levels should be monitored with frequent blood tests. Intravenous infusions based on body weight are often used to replace electrolytes.
The repletion of calories should be slow and is typically at about 20 calories per kilogram of body weight on average, or around 1,000 calories per day initially. Give her adequate mental support to overcome her fears and anxiety.
Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Saranya Ramadoss, General & Family Physician
Refeeding is the process of reintroducing food after malnourishment or starvation. It is generally caused by sudden shifts in the electrolytes that help your body metabolize food. It is very essential to visit your physician since hospital treatment will prevent any complications. Electrolyte levels should be monitored with frequent blood tests. Intravenous infusions based on body weight are often used to replace electrolytes.
The repletion of calories should be slow and is typically at about 20 calories per kilogram of body weight on average, or around 1,000 calories per day initially. Give her adequate mental support to overcome her fears and anxiety.
Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Saranya Ramadoss, General & Family Physician
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