Ask HER: Helping a Loved One with Anorexia, Counting Calories & Why Do Your Fingers Turn White in Cold Weather?

It's YOUR time on HER Radio. Be a part of the show... send your comments and ask your questions by email, AskHER@radiomd.com. It's time to Ask HER. Today, on HER Radio you wanted to know:

How can I help a loved one dealing with anorexia?

If you've been noticing symptoms of anorexia in a loved one, your first instinct might be to reach out to them. However, there is an appropriate time a place to do this.

You might want to ask them to talk privately, express your concern, and encourage your loved one to speak honestly about how they are feeling. Even though it can be hard to understand, try to avoid judgement, emphasize your love and support, and listen openly.

Denial is part of the illness, and you can't force someone to treat the illness if they don't want to. You can only express your concern and offer any help if needed.

My fingers turn white when it's cold outside. What could the issue be?

It could be Raynaud's, a problem in your body's arteries. Raynaud's occurs when small arteries that bring oxygen-rich blood to your fingers spasm and close down in response to cold or sometimes stress. This can cut off or reduce blood flow to your fingers and can be the reason why your fingers are white when it's cold.

Should I count calories?

A common way to lose weight is to live by the phrase, "calories in, calories out." However, counting calories may not be the best option. Instead, you might want to consider making a nutrition checklist to ensure you're eating the healthiest you can. You might also want to enlist the tactics of learning appropriate portion sizes, listening to your body, and taking measurements only once a week.

If you have a personal health question that you want answered, Pam and Michelle encourage you to send them in to AskHER@radiomd.com.