Nutrient Deficiencies in Kids with Eating Disorders & How to Address Them
Children with eating disorders (EDs) often develop nutrient deficiencies due to food restriction, purging, or extreme selective eating. These deficiencies can affect growth, brain function, energy levels, and overall health. Proper nutrition restoration is key to healing and preventing long-term complications.
Common Nutrient Deficiencies in Kids with Eating Disorders
Nutrient
Why It’s Important
Deficiency Symptoms
Best Food Sources
Iron
Supports red blood cells & oxygen transport
Fatigue, dizziness, pale skin, cold hands & feet
Lean meats, spinach, lentils, fortified cereals
Calcium
Essential for bone growth & strength
Weak bones, brittle nails, muscle cramps
Dairy, fortified plant milks, almonds, leafy greens
Vitamin D
Aids calcium absorption & immune health
Bone pain, low energy, mood swings
Sunlight, salmon, egg yolks, fortified dairy
Protein
Supports muscle repair & immune function
Slow healing, muscle loss, hair thinning
Eggs, chicken, tofu, beans, nuts
Zinc
Supports immune function & wound healing
Frequent infections, poor appetite, slow growth
Meat, chickpeas, cashews, dairy
B Vitamins (B1, B6, B12, Folate)
Support brain function & energy levels
Brain fog, fatigue, depression, tingling hands/feet
Whole grains, dairy, meat, leafy greens
Magnesium
Helps with digestion, sleep & muscle function
Anxiety, insomnia, constipation, headaches
Nuts, seeds, bananas, dark chocolate
Potassium
Regulates heart & muscle function
Heart palpitations, weakness, bloating
Bananas, potatoes, yogurt, oranges
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Supports brain & mental health
Depression, dry skin, poor concentration
Salmon, walnuts, chia seeds, flaxseeds
Addressing Nutrient Deficiencies in Recovery
· Gradual Reintroduction of Nutrient-Dense Foods
o Avoid overwhelming the digestive system by starting with easily digestible sources
· Balance Macronutrients
o Every meal should include proteins, healthy fats, and carbohydrates to stabilize energy levels
· Use Fortified Foods
o If certain foods are not tolerated, choose fortified cereals, plant-based milks, and nutrient-rich smoothies
· Hydration & Electrolytes
o Encourage water, herbal teas, and electrolyte-rich foods to prevent dehydration
Meal Ideas to Address Nutrient Deficiencies
· Breakfast (Energy & Brain Function Boost)
o Scrambled eggs with cheese + whole grain toast (Protein, B Vitamins, Iron)
o Greek yogurt + honey + chia seeds (Calcium, Probiotics, Omega-3)
o Oatmeal with flaxseeds, banana & almond butter (Magnesium, Iron, Healthy Fats)
· Snack (Gentle Nutrition Boost)
o Trail mix (Cashews, almonds, dried apricots – Zinc, Iron, Healthy Fats)
o Hard-boiled egg + whole wheat crackers (Protein, B12, Healthy Carbs)
o Hummus with veggie sticks (Zinc, Magnesium, Fiber)
· Lunch (Balanced & Easily Digestible)
o Grilled chicken + mashed sweet potatoes + steamed spinach (Iron, Vitamin A, Protein)
o Turkey & avocado sandwich on whole grain bread (Healthy Fats, B Vitamins, Potassium)
o Lentil soup with whole grain toast (Iron, Magnesium, Fiber)
· Dinner (Restorative & Anti-Inflammatory)
o Baked salmon + quinoa + roasted carrots (Omega-3, Zinc, Vitamin D)
o Stir-fry with tofu, broccoli, and brown rice (Calcium, Iron, Protein)
o Omelet with cheese, mushrooms, and bell peppers (B Vitamins, Healthy Fats, Protein)
· Evening Snack (Gut & Sleep Support)
o Warm almond milk with a sprinkle of cinnamon (Calcium, Magnesium)
o Dark chocolate + walnuts (Magnesium, Omega-3)
o Cottage cheese + blueberries (Protein, B12, Antioxidants)
When Are Supplements Needed?
· Supplements may be necessary if:
o The child is severely malnourished and cannot meet their needs through food
o They have food aversions, allergies, or intolerances to key nutrient sources
o Blood tests show severe vitamin or mineral deficiencies
o Always consult a doctor or dietitian before starting supplements
· Commonly Recommended Supplements for ED Recovery:
o Multivitamin with iron & B12 (if diet is limited)
o Calcium + Vitamin D (if dairy intake is low)
o Omega-3 supplements (if not eating fish)
o Probiotics (to restore gut health)
Final thoughts Long-Term Nutritional Recovery Tips
· Encourage variety – Different foods provide different nutrients
· Avoid labeling foods as “good” or “bad” – Focus on nourishment
· Promote regular, structured meals – Helps with metabolism and gut health
· Model balanced eating habits – Parents should set a positive example
· Seek professional guidance – Dietitians can personalize recovery plans
·
Disclaimer: This information is intended for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice. If you or someone you know is in crisis or needs immediate help, please contact a healthcare professional or crisis intervention service immediately.
