Anorexia nervosa, often referred to simply as anorexia, is an eating disorder characterized by a low weight, fear of gaining weight, a strong desire to be thin, and food restriction. Many people with anorexia see themselves as overweight even though they are in fact underweight. If asked they usually deny they have a problem with low weight. Often they weigh themselves frequently, eat only small amounts, and only eat certain foods. Some will exercise excessively, force themselves to vomit, or use laxatives to produce weight loss. Complications may include osteoporosis, infertility and heart damage, among others. Women will often stop having menstrual periods.

Good nutritional management is essential to the treatment of anorexia nervosa. However, there is relatively little guidance on nutrition available to professionals treating this serious disorder. This report was produced by a multidisciplinary group which included specialists in eating disorders in adults and children, dietitians and experts in clinical nutrition.

Nutrition should always be considered in its psychological context. Patients require comprehensive physical, nutritional and laboratory assessment. Aggressive attempts to drive weight gain early in treatment are