Adjunctive Therapies in the Treatment of Anorexia Nervosa

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this paper is to highlight the possible naturopathic adjunctive modalities being used to treat anorexia nervosa. This study looks at the research being done to understand anorexia nervosa, the pathomechanism and treatment modalities available. Basic procedures: The database used for searching was OneSearch on the University of Bridgeport’s library website available to faculty and students. Papers were chosen that focused on treatment of anorexia nervosa. Papers were given preference in the past 20 years but there were some that were used prior to that because they added value to the paper. Main findings: Anorexia nervosa is a disease that is not well understood in terms of pathomechanism and therefore is difficult to treat. There has been conflicting evidence for treatment modalities as well as insufficient research of treatments. Principle conclusions: Anorexia nervosa is a disease which should not be taken lightly. It is important to refer to a practitioner with adequate clinical experience treating those with anorexia nervosa. There is evidence for naturopathic modalities to be useful in treatment and clinic settings as adjunctive treatment but more research needs to be done.