Gillian McKeith's Food Bible (93 page)

Look for a liquid multivitamin/mineral supplement, too.

EXTRA TIPS

Psychotherapy: this is important for addressing the underlying emotional issues, such as low self-esteem and irrational fears. There are many different types of psychotherapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy, family therapy, and group therapy. But unless you address the nutritional deficiencies, it will be a fight to get better. Please do not ignore the nutritional side of anorexia.

For further information, go to www.gillianmckeith.info/anorexia.

ANTIBIOTICS

Antibiotics can kill off the beneficial organisms in the gut, putting extra stress on the liver. If you are taking, or have recently completed, a course of antibiotics, then the following action plan is useful.

Action plan

The aim is to keep a balanced level of good bacteria in your gut so that you don’t end up with another common condition called candidiasis (see page
219
).

EAT/DRINK

Fruits and vegetables; at least eight portions a day to support the immune system.

Fermented foods. Yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, miso, and natto are all fermented foods that contain beneficial bacteria.

Organic animal products. Unlike organically reared animals, conventionally farmed animals are often routinely given antibiotics. This means that antibiotic residues may be in the meat or animal products that you eat, which can give you an extra dose of antibiotics that will challenge your system further.

Fiber, which is needed by the bowel to clear out unwanted toxins and also to provide fuel for the good bacteria. Fiber is found in whole grains, pulses, nuts, seeds, and fruits and vegetables, specifically artichokes, bananas, onions, and celery.

Garlic and onions. These have antibacterial properties and can enhance the effectiveness of the antibiotics and speed recovery.

Water: at least eight glasses a day. This will help the immune system to deal with the infection and help to clear out unhelpful toxins and organisms.

AVOID

Sugar, refined carbohydrates, and dairy products. These can all encourage yeasts that tend to take hold after antibiotics have reduced the good bacteria in the gut.