Understanding Eating Disorders and the Restriction of Calories with a Therapist in Riverdale, UT

At Gold Counseling, we understand that struggling with an eating disorder—especially one based on calorie restriction—can feel overwhelming and isolating. Calorie restriction eating disorders occur when someone persistently limits their food intake, consuming far fewer calories than their body needs to function properly. This goes well beyond typical dieting or healthy eating habits, often rooted in intense fears about weight gain, distorted body image, or a need for control.

The consequences of restrictive eating can be severe. Physically, your body may not get the energy it needs, leading to symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, hair loss, a weakened immune system, and even dangerous heart irregularities. For adolescents, this can impact growth and development; for adults, it can cause bone loss and reproductive challenges.

We specialize in treating restrictive eating disorders, including anorexia nervosa and other eating disorders with restrictive features. Our team of experienced professionals provides compassionate, evidence-based care to address both the physical and emotional aspects of disordered eating. We focus not only on restoring nutritional health but also on helping you explore and overcome the underlying thoughts and feelings driving your eating behaviors.

We understand that restricted eating—deliberately limiting food intake or avoiding certain foods—can have significant impacts on both physical and emotional health. Our team frequently works with individuals who struggle with these patterns, and we see firsthand how important it is to address them holistically.

Physically, consistently not consuming enough calories or essential nutrients can lead to a range of health problems, including fatigue, weakness, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating. Over time, nutrient deficiencies may develop, potentially resulting in hair loss, brittle nails, weakened immune function, and even disruptions in heart rhythm.

Emotionally, restricted eating can take a profound toll. Many clients at Gold Counseling report increased preoccupation with food, heightened body image concerns, and feelings of guilt or shame related to eating. These emotional struggles often lead to elevated stress, anxiety, and mood swings. Socially, avoiding meals or certain foods can lead to isolation, making it difficult to participate in gatherings or enjoy everyday life. The psychological strain associated with restricted eating can sometimes escalate to depression or obsessive behaviors.

We understand that restrictive eating disorders—such as Anorexia Nervosa and Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)—are serious mental health conditions that can have a profound impact on both physical health and emotional well-being. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals and families affected by these challenges.

Restrictive eating disorders are characterized by limiting food intake, which can result in significant medical and psychological consequences. Early recognition of warning signs is essential for timely intervention and effective treatment.

Early Warning Signs to Watch For:

● Food & Body Preoccupation: Obsessive thoughts about weight, calories, dieting, or body shape.
● Changes in Eating Habits: Frequently skipping meals, reducing portion sizes, or following strict food rules.
● Avoidant Behaviors: Avoiding meals with others, making excuses not to eat, or expressing intense fear of gaining weight.

Physical Symptoms: As restrictive eating disorders progress, you might notice:

● Noticeable weight loss or not reaching expected weight milestones
● Chronic fatigue, dizziness, or feeling unusually cold
● Hair loss and, in females, irregular or missed menstrual periods

Emotional & Behavioral Changes: Individuals may also become more withdrawn, irritable, or anxious—especially around food or mealtimes. Compulsive or excessive exercise may become a means to control weight.

At Gold Counseling, we understand that the compulsion to severely limit food intake is a complex issue influenced by psychological, biological, and sociocultural factors. Many individuals who struggle with restrictive eating may do so as a response to distorted body image, overwhelming anxiety, or an intense fear of weight gain. These psychological challenges can make restrictive eating a form of coping, even when it becomes harmful.

Our team recognizes that biological factors, including genetic predispositions and imbalances in brain chemicals like serotonin and dopamine, can further complicate a person’s relationship with food. Prolonged dieting or calorie restriction can also disrupt metabolism and hormone levels, making it even harder to break free from restrictive patterns.

We also acknowledge the powerful influence of sociocultural pressures. Messages from the media and society that equate thinness with self-worth can drive individuals to pursue unhealthy eating habits. Experiences of trauma, perfectionism, or a need for control in the face of life’s unpredictability may also contribute to these behaviors.

At Gold Counseling, Kandace Wilson specializes in helping individuals understand and overcome eating disorders and the harmful practice of calorie restriction. Her therapy approach focuses on addressing the emotional triggers and thought patterns that contribute to disordered eating. Kandace works alongside clients to build healthier coping strategies, develop self-compassion, and move toward a more positive relationship with food.

We believe that restrictive eating rarely stems from a single factor; rather, it is the result of an interplay between personal vulnerabilities, biology, and environmental influences. Left untreated, these behaviors can have serious health consequences—physically and emotionally. For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. We serve patients from Riverdale UT, Washington Terrace UT, Clinton UT, Kaysville UT, Clearfield UT, Farmington UT, Draper UT, Riverton UT, Sandy UT, St. George UT, Bloomington UT, Santa Clara, UT, and surrounding areas.