Q. I have recently begun a treatment program (DBT in Portland OR) for Borderline Personality Disorder. I realize that I have a long way to go in recovery, and am grateful that I finally realized what is the root cause of decades of very painful & confusing behavior.
My question: Is there a connection between this disorder and nutrition? Does a specific diet and/or supplements assist in recovery? Is there a book on this subject you can recommend?
I have a 15 year history of bulimic/anorexic/alcoholic behavior (symptom free from alcoholism for 7+ years... with extremely infrequent bouts of bulimic and/or anorexic symptoms... infrequent once a year) I exercise regularly (run 5 times a week & body build 3-4 times a week) and eat very well balanced meals (40-30-30). I am 36.
My emotional tendency right now is a constant "flight or fight" mode, which DBT will eventually assist me in managing that. In the meantime, what can I do to physically support my body? The awareness of the constant agitation is uncomfortable, I am connecting the weight gained 15 lbs in the past year with this constant state of stress I am experiencing, in spite of my exercise and eating plan... and with my bulimic background I am becoming more concerned about triggering a bulimic response with weight gain while I'm beginning to recover...
A. Nothing in your diet will change your illness. The DBT will also be less effective if you are not on a medication to treat your biologically based illness.
