Myth Vs Fact
“Carbs are bad for you”
Myth - Carbs are your body’s main source of energy, especially for your brain. When you don’t eat enough carbs, it can lead to: low energy, irritability, and trouble focusing
In recovery, carbs are actually essential for helping your body and brain function properly.
Name one coping skill you can use when feeling overwhelmed
Any recovery coping skill (e.g., deep breathing, journaling, talking to a friend, grounding, movement)
“I don’t deserve to eat today”
ED thought
How many meals are typically recommended in recovery?
3 meals (+ 1–2 snacks, depending on plan)
Name a food you genuinely enjoy
Any food they like
“Your body needs consistent fuel throughout the day”
Fact - Your body works best when it’s fueled regularly. Eating consistently: keeps blood sugar stable, reduces intense hunger (and urges to binge), supports mood and concentration
Irregular eating often makes ED thoughts louder.
Grounding technique using 5 senses
5-4-3-2-1 grounding
“My body deserves nourishment no matter what”
Recovery thought
Why are snacks important?
Maintain energy, prevent extreme hunger, stabilize blood sugar, support recovery
Favorite comfort show/movie
Any answer
“Skipping meals helps your metabolism”
Myth - Skipping meals actually does the opposite. Your body goes into “energy conservation mode” and: slows metabolism, increases fatigue, and can lead to stronger hunger later
This often sets up a restrict → overeat cycle.
Coping skill during a difficult meal
Any meal-related coping skill (e.g., mindful eating, positive self-talk, using a support person, distraction with conversation)
Turn “I feel guilty for eating” into recovery thought
“It’s okay to eat; my body needs fuel” or similar recovery coping statement
One thing your body uses food for (besides energy)
Growth, brain function, hormone regulation, repair, immunity
If recovery had a theme song
Any song meaningful to them
“Weight alone determines health”
Myth - Health is way more complex than weight. Someone can be struggling medically or mentally at any body size, and someone in a smaller body isn’t automatically “healthy" just like someone in a larger body isn't automatically "unhealthy".
Way to cope with body image distress
Any healthy coping (mirror work, reframing thoughts, journaling, talking to a trusted person)
“I’ll feel better if I skip this meal”
ED thought
What happens when you don’t eat enough consistently?
Fatigue, irritability, slowed metabolism, nutrient deficiencies, stronger hunger
One thing you’re proud of this week
Any achievement or effort
“Food rules often increase anxiety and disordered eating over time”
Fact - Food rules tend to: make food feel more stressful, increase guilt/shame, and lead to all-or-nothing thinking
The more rigid the rules, the more likely they are to backfire and intensify the eating disorder over time.
Why is avoiding feelings NOT effective long-term?
Avoidance only delays emotions, can intensify anxiety, and doesn’t help the body or mind recover
Recovery response to “I hate my body”
Examples: “My body is more than its appearance,” “I’m learning to appreciate what my body does for me,” “I can treat my body with care”
Why is regular eating important for recovery?
Supports energy, mood, metabolism, cognitive function, and reduces ED urges
Advice from future recovered self
Any positive, recovery-focused message