6. Food changes: Gradually the sufferer will start to get better and begin to try new foods. The carer must be aware that for a sufferer it is like learning to ride a bike again. This stage must be treated with care and the carer must be prepared for long talks. Keep telling the sufferer that they are doing the right thing.
7. Getting the weight on: Although each case is different, the mind is usually the first thing to stabilise. Weight will fluctuate and your dietician will inform you of the goal weight you should be aiming for. Obviously the sufferer has to be in good mind to tackle this stage as the sight of themselves putting on weight may be scary for them. Introduce varied foods, but try to keep them eating more of the foods they are happy with, as these are the ones they will be able to increase easier. Be aware that the weight may take a long time to be put on, but one little hic up and it can come off in a matter of days.
8. A better person: A carer will gradually see the sufferer emerge to something like they used to be. Hopefully this will be a better, stronger and more stable person that the vulnerable one before. This is when the good times start to creep back in again and the journey starts to seem worthwhile. A word of warning: do not become complacent at this stage and think everything is finished, as the sufferer can easily slip back at an alarming rate if the illness is not kept on top of. On the other hand try not to fuss too much as this can have a negative affect.
9. Regaining trust: One of the hardest stages. Letting the sufferer be themselves again and having what they want to eat without being constantly judged or looked at by the carer who will still have concerns. Learn to break away from the carer role slightly, but still be there for slip ups if needed.
(published with permission in writing from:http://www.anorexiacarers.co.uk/)
