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DESCRIPTION
The term anorexia nervosa was first coined in 1988. A physician writing in the British medical journal, The Lancet, used the term to describe people who, although thin and weak, insisted that they needed to lose weight and would not eat a sufficient amount of food to remain alive.
Anorexia Nervosa is a psychological eating disorder in which a person refuses to eat adequately in spite of hunger and loses enough weight to become emaciated, even to the point of starvation. The person eats very little, and refuses to stop dieting after a reasonable weight loss. The body perception is distorted; person sees self as "fat" when she or he is at normal weight or emaciated. Anorexia nervosa primarily affects adolescent, teenage and young adult females and occasionally young men. Ninety-five percent of the people who suffer from this disorder are female. 1 to 2 percent of the female population between the ages of 12 and 18 is affected by this disorder.
Some people with anorexia just quit eating; some make themselves vomit immediately after eating, some take laxatives after eating; and some do all three. While most people with anorexia have normal feelings of hunger at the onset of the disease, they teach themselves to ignore them. Despite their refusal to eat, people with anorexia often become obsessed with food, and may spend hours fantasizing about it, reading recipes, or even preparing elaborate meals for others. Another characteristic feature of the disorders is that people with anorexia usually deny that there is anything wrong, but say that they simply "aren't hungry" and even insist that they need to lose more weight.
Many females who are anorexic are also bulimic. Bulimia nervosa is defined as the consumption of extremely large quantities of food in short periods of time (binge eating), followed by self-induced vomiting or the use of either diuretics or cathartics (purging). If anorexia and bulimia occur in the same individual, the disorder is called bulimarexia.
Initially anorexia was thought to be strictly a psychological problem. However, in the last few years medical scientists and nutritionists have identified several physical components as well. For example, people with eating disorders have been found to have chemical imbalances similar to those found in individuals with clinical depression. Some cases of anorexia have been found to be caused by severe zinc deficiency.
As researchers have become increasingly aware of the physiological elements of anorexia, the psychological ones continue to be important. Teasing by peers or parents can play a role in making individuals obsessed with the idea that they are fat. In addition, many people who suffer from anorexia display great fear at the prospect of growing up, and girls often have difficult mother/daughter relationships. Some may try to live up to images their parents set for them, but feel inadequate - that they are not as beautiful or intelligent as their parents want them to be. A girl with anorexia may then develop an inferiority complex, seeing herself as fat and/or ugly, and no amount of common sense or persuasion can alter her distorted mental image.
About 30 percent of all people with anorexia struggle with the disorder all their lives. Another 30 percent have at least one life-threatening bout with it, while the remaining 40 percent outgrow it. Even if an individual recovers fully from the acute phase of the disorder, serious damage may have been done to the body.
MoonDragon's Obgyn Information: Bulimia
FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
Weight loss of at least 25% of body weight without physical illness.
High energy level, extreme over-activity and an obsession with working out despite body wasting.
Intense fear of obesity that never goes away, no matter how thin the individual becomes.
Depression. Deep feelings of shame.
Problems with drug and/or alcohol abuse. These include use of diet pills, laxatives, and many other drugs that assist the person with their need to loose weight.
Appetite loss.
Constipation.
Cold intolerance.
Refusal to maintain a minimum standard weight for age and height.
Distorted and negative body image. The person continues to feel fat even when emaciated.
Cessation of menstrual periods.
CAUSES
Unknown. Suggested causes include family and internal conflicts (sexual conflicts); phobia about putting on weight; changes in fashion in USA (being slim is identified with beauty); a symptom of depression or personality disorder.
Some researchers believe that neurotransmitters - such as dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine, and the enogenous opioids - play a role in anorexia.
RISK INCREASES WITH
Peer pressure to be thin.
History of slight overweight.
Perfectionist, compulsive or over-achieving personalities.
Low self-esteem.
Stress due to multiple responsibilities, tight schedules.
Ballet dancers, models, cheerleaders, and athletes.
PREVENTIVE MEASURES
Confront personal problems realistically. Try to correct or cope with problems, such as stress, with the help of counselors, therapists, family and friends.
Develop a rational attitude about weight.
EXPECTED OUTCOME
Treatable if the patient recognizes the emotional disturbance, wants help and cooperates in treatment.
Without treatment, this can cause permanent disability and death. Persons with anorexia nervosa have a high rate of attempted suicide due to low self-esteem.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
Chronic anorexia nervosa caused by patient's resistance to treatment.
Underweight with extreme weakness & dizziness.
Cessation of menstruation. Infertility.
Swelling of the neck, ulcers, and erosion of the esophagus, erosion of the enamel of the back teeth from repeated vomiting.
Broken blood vessels in the face.
Low pulse rate and blood pressure.
Electrolyte disturbances brought on by insufficient potassium and sodium levels cause dehydration, muscle spasms, and ultimately cardiac arrest.
If laxatives are used, these further deplete the body of potassium. Hypokalemia (potassium deficiency) is a major problem with anorexia. Chronic hypokalemia can cause a irregular heartbeat, which can lead to heart failure and death.
In some extreme cases, spoons or sticks used to induce vomiting have become stuck in the digestive tract and have had to be surgically removed.
Thyroid dysfunction.
Irregularity in the secretion of the growth hormone and the hormone cortisol, gonadotropin, and vasopressin.
Osteoporosis.
Suicide.
TREATMENT
GENERAL MEASURES
If an individual shows any of the signs of anorexia, he or she should be seen by a health care provider specializing in eating disorders and who can address the complex of physical and psychological elements involved. Some type of specialized counseling, in addition to nutritional counseling, is usually necessary for recovery.
The goal of treatment is for the patient to establish healthy eating patterns to help regain normal weight. The patient can accomplish this with behavior-modification training supervised by qualified professionals.
Treatment can usually be done on an outpatient basis.
Psychotherapy or counseling for the patient and family. The self-esteem problems typical of those with anorexia often begin at an early age. A child who is told that she is stupid, worthless, and/or unlovable is likely to come to believe it. In addition, recent research has shown that many (if not most) American girls undergo a severe loss of self-esteem in early adolescence, the very time that eating disorders are most likely to occur.
If you have problems with anorexia, you should look at your level of self-esteem. Women with low self-esteem tend to engage in self-destructive behaviors such as entering into abusive relationships, compulsive sexual behavior, and eating disorders. Cultivate relationships with people who make you feel important. These people need to be admiring and encouraging of your accomplishments and interests. As much as possible, remove from your life anything and anyone who makes you feel put-down, and consider counseling to help you learn to cope with those negative situations you cannot avoid.
Hospitalization during crises for intravenous or tube feeding of nutrients, potassium and multivitamins to correct electrolyte imbalance, or if patient is suicidal. Zinc, whether as a part of the diet or in supplemental form, has been successful in helping many individuals with anorexia to regain their normal appetite and weight.
Therapy may continue over several years. Relapses are common, especially when stressful situations occur. Starvation tends to increase feelings of depression, anxiety, irritability, and anger. It may take up to a year or more for a person recovering from anorexia to improve his or her body image, to replenish normal eating patterns, and to reverse effects of starvation on mood and behavior.
Additional information available from:
Anorexia Nervosa & Related Eating Disorders (ANRED)
P.O. Box 5102
Eugene, OR 97405
(503) 344-1144
ANRED Website
Anorexia Nervosa & Associated Disorders (ANAD)
Box 7
Highland Park, IL 60035
(708) 831-3438
ANAD Website
American Anorexia/Bulimia Association (AABA)
293 Central Park West, Suite 1R
New York, NY 10024
(212) 501-8351
AABA Website
Institute for Contemporary Psychotherapy: Center for the Study of Anorexia and Bulimia
1841 Broadway, 4th Floor
New York, NY 10023
(212) 333-3444
Center for the Study of Anorexia & Bulimia (CSAB)
National Eating Disorders Organization (NEDO)
445 East Granville Road
Worthington, OH 43085-3195
(614) 436-1112
National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA)
(Formerly National Eating Disorders Organization [NEDO])
(Formerly Eating Disorders & Prevention, Inc. [EDAP])
603 Stewart Street, Suite 803
Seattle, WA 98101
(206) 382-3587 Ext 10
(206) 829-8501 Fax
Information & Referral Helpline: 1-800-931-2237
Website: www.nationaleatingdisorders.org
MEDICATION
Lithium or other antidepressants, or anti-anxiety medications may be prescribed on a temporary basis.
ACTIVITY
Increase activity as weight is gained back.
DIET, HERBAL SUPPLEMENTS & NUTRIENTS
While a controlled diet program and a normal eating pattern is being established, eat a well-balanced diet that is high in fiber. Eat plenty of fresh raw fruits and vegetables. These foods are cleansing to the system. When the body is cleansed, the appetite tends to return to normal.
Consume no sugar, and avoid white flour products.
Avoid processed and junk foods. The additives these foods contain tend to add to the aversion to eating.
Vitamin and mineral supplements may be prescribed.
Nutrition, Supplements, Diet Plans & Menus, Nutritional Therapy
NUTRIENTS Supplement Suggested Dosage Comments Very Important Multivitamin and mineral complex
with
Natural beta-carotene
and
Vitamin A
and
calcium
and
magnesium
and
potassium
and
seleniumAs directed on label.
25,000 IU daily.
10,000 IU daily.
1,000 mg daily.
100 mg daily.
200 mcg daily.All nutrients are needed in extremely high doses because of they are passed through the GI tract rapidly and are poorly assimilated due to malabsorption problems. Alive! Whole Food Energizer Multi-Vitamin with Minerals, Naturally Occurring Iron (No Iron Added), Nature's Way - 180 Tabs, Multi-Vitamin / Multi-Mineral Supplements Zinc 80 mg daily. Do not exceed a total of 100 mg daily from all supplements. All enzymes important for increased appetite and taste require zinc and copper. Zinc Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 100 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz., Ionic Zinc, 50 mg, 2 fl. oz., Trace Minerals, Zinc (Chelated), 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 30 mg, 100 Caps Plus
Copper3 mg daily. Zinc and copper work together to prevent copper deficiency. Copper Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 50 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz. Important Acidophilus As directed on label. Take on empty stomach so that it passes quickly into the small intestine. Needed to replace the "friendly" bacteria lost from use of laxatives and/or vomiting. Acidophilus Powder, Non-Dairy, 4 oz. Bulk, Lactobacillus Acidophilus, Kosher Liquid, All Natural, Vegetarian Medium, Lactose Free, Apple-Strawberry Flavor, 16 fl. oz., Dynamic Health, Acidophilus & Bifidus, NOW Foods, 8 Billion, 60 Caps Free-form amino acid complex As directed on label. To supply easily assimilable protein, needed for tissue repair. Amino 1000 Complete, 20 Essential & Non-Essential Amino Acids, Now Foods, 120 Caps Multi-mineral complex As directed on label. Needed to replace lost minerals. Full Spectrum Mineral supplement, NOW Foods, Vegetarian, 250 Tabs, Multi-Mineral & Mineral Formulas Vitamin B complex 100 mg 3 times daily. Helps to prevent anemia and replaces lost B vitamins. Ultimate B Complex Formula, Nature's Secret, 60 Tabs, Vitamin B Complex, W/Coenzyme B-2, Nature's Way, 631 mg, 100 Caps Plus
Vitamin B-12 injections1 cc 3 times weekly or as prescribed by a health care provider. If injections are not available use a sublingual or lozenge form. Increases appetite; prevents loss of hair and damage to many bodily functions. Vitamin B-12, 2000 mcg, 100 Sublingual Lozenges Calcium 1,500 mg daily at bedtime. Has a calming effect and replaces lost calcium stores. Coral Calcium Complex Liquid, 100% Pure Okinawan, 32 fl. oz., Dynamic Health, Calcium Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 700 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz., Just An Ounce Calcium & Magnesium Liquid, Almond Flavor, 16 fl. oz. Magnesium 750 mg daily. Works with calcium. Magnesium relaxes smooth muscle and has a bronchodilating effect. Magnesium Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 350 +/- ppm 16 fl. oz., Just An Ounce Calcium & Magnesium Liquid, Almond Flavor, 16 fl. oz., Calcium & Magnesium Mineral Complex, 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 500 mg / 250 mg, 250 Caps Plus
Raw liver extract or injectionsExtract: As directed on label.
Injections: 2 cc 3 times weekly or as prescribed by health care provider.A rich source of B vitamins and minerals that aids in repairing the liver and in preventing anemia. Vitamin C
With
Bioflavonoids5,000 mg daily, in divided doses. Acts as a powerful antioxidant with healing potential, and for the impaired immune system. To alleviate stress on the adrenal glands. Vitamin C Liquid, with Rose Hips & Bioflavonoids, Kosher, Natural Citrus Flavor, 1000 mg, 16 fl. oz., Dynamic Health, Vitamin C 1000 with Bioflavonoids, Nature's Way, 100% Natural, 1000 mg, 250 Vcaps, Vitamin C Supplements & Products / Ascorbic Acid / Ester C Helpful Proteolytic enzymes As directed on label. Take between meals. Essential for assimilation of protein, aids digestion and rebuilding of tissue. Enzymes, All Complete, 250 mg, 90 Caps, Enzymes / Digestive Enzymes / Enzyme Supplements Vitamin E 600 IU daily. Increases oxygen uptake in the body for healing. Vitamin E-1000, Now Foods, 1000 IU, 100 Gels, Vitamin E, d-alpha tocopherol, 400 IU, 100 Softgels, Vitamin E Supplements & Products / Alpha-tocopherol Bio-Strathfrom Bioforce
or
Floradix Iron + Herbs from Salus Haus3 times daily.
As directed on label 3 times daily.An herbal and yeast-based supplement.
A natural source of iron. Iron Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 20 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz., Iron Gluconate, Nature's Way, 18 mg, 100 Caps, Iron Complex with Vitamins and Herbs, Vegetarian, NOW Foods, 250 TabsBrewers yeast Start with 1 tsp daily and work up to 1 tbsp daily. Contains balanced amounts of B vitamins. Brewers yeast, Debittered, NOW Foods, 1 lb., Brewers Yeast, NOW Foods, 650 mg, 200 Tabs Kelp 2,000-3,000 mg daily. Needed for mineral replacement. Kelp Supplement, Nature's Way, Certified 650 mg, 100 Caps, Kelp Seaweed, Norwegian, NOW Foods, 100% Natural Acophyllum nodosum, 550 mg, 250 Caps Vitamin D 600 IU daily. Needed for calcium uptake and to prevent bone loss. Vitamin D, 400 IU, Nature's Way, 100% Natural, 100 Caps, Vitamin D, 1000 IU, NOW Foods, 180 Softgels, Vitamin D, NOW Foods, 2000 IU, 120 Softgels
ANOREXIA SUPPLEMENTAL PRODUCTS
Supplements and information for help with Anorexia, an eating disorder. To be used in place of or in addition to the above recommended supplements.
Alive! Whole Food Energizer, Ultra Multi-Vitamin Powder Shake Mix W/Soy Protein, Vanilla, Nature's Way, 2.2 lb.
Alive Ultra-Shake from Nature's Way is the ultimate source for nutritional energy and in addition to being a comprehensive whole food multi-vitamin it has the added benefit of soy protein.Alive! Whole Food Energizer Multi-Vitamin & Mineral, W/Naturally Occurring Iron (No Iron Added), Nature's Way, 90 Tabs
Alive Whole Food Energizer Multi-Vitamin & Mineral with Naturally Occurring Iron by Nature's Way is absorbed into your blood stream 5 times faster than other leading brands. NO other supplement contains more life-giving nutrients than ALIVE!Zinc Lozenges w/ Echinacea & Vitamin C, Nature's Way, 23 mg, 60 Lozenges
Nature's Way Zinc lozenge boosts cold season defense with zinc, widely recognized as an important nutritional support during the cold season, and echinacea pupurea, clinically shown to support the immune system, and Vitamin C, a vitally important vitamin for general health maintenance.Primadophilus Optima 35 Billion CFU, Nature's Way, 60 Vcaps
Fortify and replenish microflora with Nature's Way Primadophilus Optima which is the most potent (35 Billion CFUs) and divers (14 Strains) delivery of probiotics for intestinal microflora.Lactobacillus Acidophilus Supplement, Non-Dairy, 100 Caps
Lactobacillus Acidophilus is taken as a dietary supplement. It may help to detoxify and rebuild a balanced intestinal flora.Taurine, Double-Strength, Free Form Amino Acid, NOW Foods, 1000 mg, 100 Caps
Taurine is a neurotransmitter and is involved in glucose uptake. It is found in meats, fish, milk and eggs, but not in vegetable proteins, so supplementation is especially important for vegetarians.5-HTP (Hydroxy Tryptophan), Vegetarian, NOW Foods, 100 mg, 120 Vcaps
5-HTP (Hydroxy tryptophan) is an Amino Acid and precursor to serotonin, a brain chemical responsible for regulating mood, appetite, behavior, and sleep and may help elevate mood, encourage relaxation, control appetite, promote sleep and may prove beneficial in the treatment of depression, eating disorders, insomnia, anxiety and migraine headaches. Helps raise serotonin levels.Advanced Gamma E Complex, W/ Mixed Tocopherol & Tocotrienols, 120 Softgels
Advanced Gamma E Complex provides the necessary full range of antioxidant protection because it contains a more natural balance of Tocopherols plus a full complement of Tocotrienols.SAM-e, Enteric Coated, NOW Foods, 100 mg, 30 Tabs
SAM-e was discovered in 1952 in Italy and has been researched and manufactured there. SAM-e works closely with folic acid and vitamin B-12.SAM-e with B Vitamin Cofactors, Vegetarian, Enteric Coated, NOW Foods, 200 mg each Tablet, 60 Tabs
Important for the production of glutathione, this powerful free radical scavenger defends the body from toxic agents and is necessary for liver detoxification.St. Johns Wort Standardized Extract, 30 0mg, 90 Caps
St. John's Wort promotes a positive mood and extracts have been proven in many clinical studies in Europe, to have antidepressant effects, and is widely used for this reason.St. Johns Wort, Perika, 300 mg, 60 Tabs
St. John's Wort promotes a positive mood and extracts have been proven in many clinical studies in Europe, to have antidepressant effects, and is widely used for this reason.Appetite Stimulant Formula Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
This herbal appetite stimulant has been designed by a Master Herbalist to stimulate the appetite. It combines herbs well known and recommended by the German Commission E, for improving the appetite and eliminating symptoms of appetite loss.Flax Oil, NON GMO, Super Lignan, Certified Organic, Nature's Way, 1300 mg, 200 Softgels
Worldwide studies have shown that using Flaxseed oil boosts the immune system, promotes anti-tumor activity, normalizes blood pressure levels and inhibits cancer cell growth. Flaxseed oil is beneficial for allergies, cardiovascular health, cholesterol levels, circulation, eczema, eyesight, immune function, learning ability, nerve problems, osteo-arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, viral illness, weight management, diabetes, blood pressure, inflammation, psoriasis, multiple sclerosis, ulcerative colitis, acne, dry skin, energy levels, PMS, mood swings, and liver problems.Evening Primrose Oil, Cold Pressed, Nature's Way, 1300 mg, 120 Softgels
Nature's Way EFA Gold is the highest quality Evening Primrose Oil - guaranteed to contain 10% gamma-linolenic acid (GLA).Peppermint Gels with Ginger & Fennel Oils, Enteric Coated, NOW Foods, 90 Softgels
This nutrient rich member of the mint family contains menthol, a potent compound that has been used for centuries to help encourage optimal health and wellness. Most notably, it has the ability to promote healthy digestion and may also be able to normalize enzymatic activity.Potassium, 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 99 mg, 100 Caps
Potassium is a key nutrient in maintaining the electrolyte balance. It is important for regulating heart and muscle contraction. It also plays an important role in maintaining proper fluid exchange.Siberian Eleuthero Root, Nature's Way, 410 mg, 100 Caps
Siberian Ginseng Root (Eleutherococcus Senticosus Root) improves physical an mental vitality. It is an adaptogenic herb, which helps the body to adapt to daily stress. It is an ideal supplement for those leading a demanding and hectic lifestyle.Blue Scullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora), Standardized, Nature's Way, 100 mg per Vcap, 60 Vcaps
Scullcap is most commonly used as a sedative and it can take the edge off anxiety and promote sleep for those who struggle with insomnia.Kava Root, Maximum Strength, Standardized to 90% Kavalactones, 175 mg, 60 Caps
Kava Kava root promotes relaxation and is used by the native inhabitants of the South Pacific as a ceremonial drink to relax the body, relieve anxiety and stress, and enhance mental activity.Kava Kava Root Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Kava Kava root is used as an effective natural herbal remedy that may help reduce anxiety, stress, and muscle tensions, promote friendliness and sociability, and produce relaxing physical as well as mental sensations.Kava Tea Stress Relief, Natural Anxiety Relief, Certified Organic, 16 Tea Bags
Kava Tea Stress Relief helps you to calm down as it relieves stress, anxiety and minor pain, as well as lending gentle support to the digestion and the kidneys.5-HTP The Natural Serotonin Solution By Richard Passwater, Ph.D. & J. South, M.A
Explains how 5-HTP (Hydroxytryptophan) helps raise serotonin levels to alleviate depression, insomnia, anxiety and eating disorders.CoQ10, Vegetarian Coenzyme, NOW Foods 30mg - 60 Vcaps
A coenzyme for several key steps in the production of energy within each cell, and an antioxidant important in its clinical effects. It is these two properties make CoQ10 one of the best supplements available today.B-Stress Vitamin Complex w/ Siberian Eleuthero (Formerly Siberian Ginseng Root), Nature's Way - 100 Caps
If you're looking for herbal stress relief, you've come to the right place. B vitamins are essential precursors of coenzymes involved in the conversion of cellular energy, manufacture of hormones and proteins, and repair and maintenance of nerve structures.St. Johns Wort Standardized Extract, 300mg - 90 Caps
St. John's Wort promotes a positive mood and extracts have been proven in many clinical studies in Europe, to have antidepressant effects, and is widely used for this reason.Mood Aid Formula with St. Johns Wort & 5-HTP Nature's Way - 60 Caps
Mood Aid uses St. John's Wort, to promote a positive mood. 5-HTP, the precursor of seratonin - a mood regulating neurotransmitter.
HERBS
To rebuild the liver and cleanse the bloodstream, use dandelion, milk thistle, red clover, and wild yam.
Dandelion Root Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Dandelion Root Tincture, 100% Organic, 8 fl. oz.
Dandelion Root, Nature's Way, 540 mg, 180 Vcaps
Milk Thistle Seed Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Thislyn Milk Thistle Extract, Nature's Way, 175 mg, 100 Vcaps
Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum silymarin) Standardized Extract, Nature's Way, 175 mg, 60 Vcaps
Red Clover Blossoms & Herb, Nature's Way, 500 mg, 100 Caps
Red Clover Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Wild Yam Tincture, Alternative Health & Herbs, 2 oz.
Wild Yam Root, Certified, 425 mg, 180 Caps
The following herbs are appetite stimulants: ginger root, ginseng, gotu kola, and peppermint. Caution: Do not use ginseng if you have high blood pressure.
Ginger Root Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Ginger Root, Nature's Way, 550 mg, 180 Caps
Truman's Ginseng Power + 6 Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Panax Ginseng (Korean Ginseng) Herbal Tea, 20 Tea Bags
Red Panax Ginseng, Ultra Strength, 10 ml vials, 30 Vials
Gotu Kola Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Gotu Kola, Nature's Way, 475 mg, 180 Caps
Peppermint Oil (Mentha piperita), NOW Foods, 100% Pure Essential Oil, 4 fl. oz.
Pepogest Peppermint Oil, Enteric Coated, Nature's Way, 60 Softgels
NOTIFY YOUR MIDWIFE OR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER IF...
You have symptoms of anorexia nervosa or observe them in a family member.
Life-threatening symptoms occur, including rapid, irregular heartbeat; chest pain; or loss of consciousness. Call for assistance immediately... THIS IS AN EMERGENCY!!
Weight loss continues, despite treatment.
Karen Anne Carpenter
(March 2, 1950 - February 4, 1983)
Karen Carpenter was a highly successful American singer and drummer. She and her brother, Richard, formed the successful duo The Carpenters. Sometimes referred to as the girl next door by the media, Karen Carpenter is considered by some to be one of the most important American female popular vocalists of the 20th century.
Early life
Carpenter was born in New Haven, Connecticut, USA, (lived at 55 Hall Street, New Haven, Connecticut) to Agnes Reuwer Tatum and Harold Bertram Carpenter. Agnes Carpenter had a very strong will and tended to dominate her daughter Karen while showing little interest in her achievements, favoring Karen's older brother Richard. Richard had developed an interest in music at an early age, becoming a piano prodigy. The family moved in 1963 to the Los Angeles suburb of Downey, California. The move to Southern California, home of many recording studios and record companies, was intended in part to foster Richard's budding musical career.
When Carpenter went to Downey High School (where an outdoor performance stage is dedicated in their honor), she did not like the gym class, so she asked Richard to ask the conductor of the band if she could substitute it for gym class. The conductor agreed to take her into the band, and gave her the glockenspiel. She did not like the glockenspiel, and upon admiring the performance of a friend who played the drums, asked the conductor if she could play the drums instead.
Drumming came naturally to Carpenter, and she practiced for several hours a day - her drumming can be heard in many of The Carpenters songs. When she was 17, Carpenter went on "The Stillman Diet" with a doctor's guidance, and lost between 20 and 25 pounds.
In 1969, John Wayne met the Carpenters on a talent show and urged Carpenter to try out for a role in the film "True Grit". Carpenter did audition, but, Kim Darby was selected instead.
Music career
Carpenter joined a band formed by her brother, Richard, called "The Richard Carpenter Trio" (1965-1968). Karen and Richard Carpenter also had a friend, Wes Jacobs, a bassist and tuba player, in the Richard Carpenter Trio. The jazz trio played at numerous nightclubs, and a television show called "Your All American College Show".
Karen, Richard, and other musicians, including Gary Sims and John Bettis, would also perform as an ensemble known as Spectrum.
Carpenter signed with A&M Records with her brother, as The Carpenters in early 1969. She sang most of the tunes on their first album, Offering. Their only popular single released from that album, the main track, a remake of The Beatles' "Ticket to Ride", reached #54 on the Billboard Hot 100 Charts. Their next release, 1970's Close to You was a certified #1 smash record, with the title track and "We've Only Just Begun" as major hits. We've Only Just Begun was used in a Crocker Bank television commercial, which showed a young couple moving into their first home.
Karen's abilities to play the drums were praised by fellow drummers; Buddy Rich, Johnny Carson, and "Modern Drummer" magazine. She placed first in "Playboy's reader poll: Best Rock Drummer of 1975.
By the mid-1970s, extensive touring and lengthy recording sessions had begun to take their toll on the duo and contributed to their professional difficulties during the latter half of the decade. Karen started out as both the drummer and singer. Since Karen was the lead singer, (and was difficult to see behind her drum kit), she was pressured to just sing, (while standing up), while another person played the drums. Karen rarely selected the songs she would sing, and often felt she had very little control over her life. The rock-and-roll press did not like having to write about the middle-of-the road act and often wrote bad reviews. Carpenter dieted obsessively and developed the disorder anorexia nervosa, which first manifested itself in 1975 when an exhausted and emaciated Carpenter was forced to cancel concert tours in the UK and Japan (and at one point, fainted on stage while performing "Top of the World"). At the same time, Richard developed an addiction to quaaludes, which began to affect his performance by the late 1970s and led to the end of the duo's live concert appearances for several years. On September 4, 1978 The Carpenters gave a concert at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, not performing on stage again until the 1981 Made in America album, which would include their final live performances together.
Solo Album
In 1979 Richard Carpenter took a year off, (to cure his quaalude problem) so Karen decided to make a solo album with Phil Ramone. Richard wanted his sister to see a doctor about her eating disorder, but Karen said no. While staying at the home of the Ramones, Karen took one quaalude and passed out on the floor. She soon recovered.
The choice of more adult-oriented and disco/dance-tempo material represented an effort to retool her image. Arguably, her best ever performance is a song on the album by Paul Jabara and Jay Asher, called "Something's Missing (In My Life)." Many who have heard the work-lead feel it truly relates to Carpenter's personal struggles and depth of her feelings. The song remains unmixed and without strings.
The resulting product met a tepid response from Richard and A&M executives in early 1980, and Carpenter wavered in her dedication to the project. The whole album was shelved by A&M executive Herb Alpert. Quincy Jones tried to get Alpert to change his mind, but, he would not. Carpenter had to pay $500,000 for the cost of producing an unreleased album. Carpenter's fans got a taste of the album in 1989 when one of its tracks, "If I Had You," (as remixed by Richard) turned up on the compilation album Lovelines and was also released as a single, making #18 on the Adult Contemporary chart. 16 years later in 1996, the entire album, featuring mixes as approved by Carpenter and one unmixed bonus track, finally saw release.
There are 10 unreleased tracks from the album: eight of them are work-leads, while the remaining two are considered outtakes: "I Love Makin' Love to You," and "Truly You." When A&M Records folded in 2000, six out of the eight demos began surfacing on the Internet.
Personal Life
Carpenter lived with her parents until her mid-20s, although ironically after the Carpenters became successful during the early 1970s, she and her brother bought two apartment buildings in Downey. Called "Close To You" and "Only Just Begun," the "Close To You Apartments" can still be found at 8356 East 5th, Downey, CA.
In 1976 Carpenter bought two Century City apartments, gutted them, and turned them into one condominium. Located at 2222 Avenue of the Stars, the doorbell chimed the first six notes of "We've Only Just Begun". As a housewarming-gift her mother gave her a collection of leather-bound classic works of literature. Carpenter collected Disney memorabilia, loved to play softball/baseball, and among her friends were Petula Clark, Olivia Newton-John, and Dionne Warwick.
After a whirlwind romance, on 31 August 1980 Carpenter married real estate developer Tom Burris. At the time they met, Tom was a 39-year-old divorcé with an 18-year-old son Mark; while Carpenter was 30 years old. The couple were married at the Beverly Hills Hotel in the Crystal Room, and a new song performed by Carpenter at the ceremony, "Because We Are In Love," surfaced in 1981. The couple went to Bora Bora for their honeymoon (Carpenter called her family from the island and described it as "Boring"). The marriage turned out to be a disaster and they separated in November 1981, after going out with Carpenter's parents to celebrate her father's birthday. She and Tom returned to the Carpenters' Downey home and after a brief argument Tom told her parents, "you can keep her!" Carpenter never saw her husband again after that night.
The song "Now", recorded in April 1982, was the last song Carpenter ever recorded. It was recorded in California while Carpenter took a two-week intermission in her therapy with noted psychotherapist Steven Levenkron in New York City for her anorexia, a relatively unknown disease at the time. In the midst of her therapy, she befriended recovered anorexic Cherry Boone, and crocheted a sign above her hospital bed that read "You Win, I gain!" After her recovery, she planned to go public about her battle with anorexia.
Carpenter returned to California permanently later that year, determined to regain her professional career, finalize her divorce and begin recording a new album with Richard. Carpenter had gained a total of 30 lbs. over a two-month stay in New York, but the sudden weight gain (much of which was intravenously fed) further strained her heart, which was already taxed and weak from years of dieting and abuse. At the height of her illness, Carpenter, who had a normal thyroid, was taking ten times the normal daily dose of thyroid replacement medication (equivalent to 1mg, as opposed to the normal 100 mcg dose) in order to speed up her metabolism, which combined with large amounts of laxatives (between 90 to 100 a day), weakened her heart, digestive and nervous system even further.
On December 17, 1982 Karen Carpenter made her last public singing appearance at the Buckley School in Sherman Oaks, CA. She sang Christmas carols for friends. In early February 1983 Richard and Karen took part in a group photograph of Grammy winners, (in Los Angeles, CA).
A few weeks before Karen died, Richard tried to get his sister into a hospital for medical treatment, because in his words; "She did not look well", and "There was no life in her eyes". Two weeks prior to her death at a meeting with Werner Wolfen (their lawyer), Karen told Richard to mind his own business.
Death
On February 4, 1983, when Carpenter was only 32, she experienced heart failure at her parents' home in Downey and was taken to Downey Community Hospital, where she was pronounced dead twenty minutes later. Carpenter was planning to sign her divorce papers on the day she died.
The autopsy stated that Carpenter's death was the result of emetine cardiotoxicity due to anorexia nervosa. Under the anatomical summary, the first item was heart failure, with anorexia as second. The third finding was cachexia, which is extremely low weight and weakness and general body decline associated with chronic disease. Emetine cardiotoxicity implies that Carpenter abused ipecac syrup, an easily obtained emetic medicine that is intended for people to take who have accidentally swallowed a poisonous substance. However, there is no definite evidence to prove that Carpenter did abuse ipecac. (Reference Ray Coleman's: The Carpenters, The Untold Story, page 21-24).
Her funeral service took place on February 8, 1983, at the Downey United Methodist Church in Downey. Carpenter, dressed in a rose colored suit, lay in an open white casket. Over a thousand mourners passed through to say goodbye, among them her friends Dorothy Hamill, Olivia Newton-John, Petula Clark, Cristina Ferrare, and Dionne Warwick. Carpenter's estranged husband Tom appeared at her funeral, and he took off his wedding band and threw it into the casket (according to the Ray Coleman Book The Carpenters: the Untold Story).
After death
Carpenter's death brought lasting media attention to anorexia nervosa and also to bulimia. Carpenter's death encouraged celebrities to go public about their eating disorders, among them Tracey Gold and Diana, Princess of Wales. Medical centers and hospitals began receiving increased contacts from people with these disorders. The general public had little knowledge of anorexia nervosa and bulimia prior to her death, making the conditions difficult to identify and treat. Her fame and her "wholesome" image may have made people reluctant to suggest the possibility that she had a problem, much less to intervene directly.
Her family started the "Karen A. Carpenter Memorial Foundation", which raised money for research on anorexia nervosa and eating disorders. Today the title has been changed to "Carpenter Family Foundation," and in addition to eating disorders, the foundation now funds the arts, entertainment and education (including arts in education).
On October 12, 1983, the Carpenters received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. It is located at 6931 Hollywood Blvd, a few yards from the Kodak Theater Richard, Harold, and Agnes Carpenter attended the inauguration, as did many fans.
On December 11, 2003, at 12:30 pm PST, Agnes, Karen, and Harold, who remained in their original caskets and occupied 3 out of the 6 spaces in the Carpenter Private Mausoleum, were exhumed from the Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Cypress, California and re-interred at the Pierce Brothers Valley Oaks Memorial Park in Westlake Village, California. Their mausoleum is a 46,000-pound, Partenope-style structure and was constructed in Texas over seven months. It is polished sunset red, and features crystal patterns. It is located in the Tranquility Gardens section of the cemetery. Similar structures constructed at the time had a price range around $600,000.
"A Star on Earth - A Star in Heaven" is written on Carpenter's mausoleum stone.
Official Website: www.richardandkarencarpenter.com
Information obtained from: Wikipedia: Karen Carpenter
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