On this week’s episode of All Bodies. All Foods., Ashley and Sam meet with Laura Maalouf, a multifaceted individual who had previously battled Atypical Anorexia and recently published a self-help journal “Not Sick Enough: Atypical Anorexia”. Laura’s story is one of frustration, resilience, and continued growth; her struggles were minimized, misunderstood, and misdiagnosed every time she reached out for help. Finally receiving the support and validation she had been longing for; she obtained the tools she needed and created a workbook to help others on the same road to recovery.
Unfortunately, Laura’s story is not uncommon. The medical, mental health, and dietetic fields have perpetuated the myth that only “underweight” bodies experience the symptoms of anorexia. In fact, Atypical Anorexia and Anorexia Nervosa share the same exact criteria with the only difference being “body size.” Even though these are technically different diagnoses, the physical and psychological consequences are just as serious. To learn more about Laura and her journey, you are welcome to visit LauraMaalouf.com.