Whether you are someone with an eating disorder wanting to understand what's happening in your body, a family member searching for answers, or a clinician striving to provide the best care, Sick Enough: A Guide to the Medical Complications of Eating Disorders and Undernutrition offers relatable case presentations, stories and metaphors, peer-reviewed literature, approachable scientific explanations, and practical strategies.
This updated guide to the bestselling first edition is essential for anyone affected by eating disorders, disordered eating, dieting, and undernutrition due to complex medical problems and other issues, features:
Weight-inclusive philosophy
Comprehensive coverage of eating disorders
"Unmeasurable" medical issues such as mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS) and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS)
Specific populations including athletes, those in (peri)menopause, and individuals with challenges like PTSD and ADHD
Rezensionen / Stimmen
"Dr G unites heart and science. Read this book!"
Glennon Doyle and Abby Wambach
"Sick Enough, Second Edition is a masterclass in what medical education has long been missing. Dr Gaudiani weaves science, clinical depth, and human compassion into a resource that should be required reading in every medical and mental health curriculum. At a time when eating disorders remain dangerously misunderstood, this book breaks barriers: medically, socially, and structurally, and offers a powerful call to action for providers, educators, and systems of care worldwide. As a physician and global advocate, I have rarely seen a book that so powerfully bridges clinical precision with deep humanity. Congratulations Dr G, on this amazing endeavor!"
Eva Trujillo-ChiVacuan, MD, MET, FAED, CEDS, FAAP, Fiaedp CEO and co-founder, Comenzar de Nuevo, AC clinical professor, Tecnologico de Monterrey, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, president, International Association of Eating Disorders Professionals
"This second edition is an extraordinary, encyclopedic resource that distills nearly two decades of Dr Jennifer Gaudiani's clinical wisdom into an accessible, richly sourced, and deeply compassionate guide to the medical complications of eating disorders and undernourishment. With case-based chapter bookends, concise summaries, and language that speaks fluently to both medical professionals and patients, this volume can be read cover to cover or consulted selectively to illuminate specific questions. From common complications to rare comorbidities and special populations, Gaudiani offers both breadth and depth in a work that is as clinically useful as it is humane."
Cynthia Bulik, PhD, FAED, founding director University of North Carolina Center of Excellence for Eating Disorders
"Dr Jennifer Gaudiani's Sick Enough, Second Edition is a critical and timely contribution to the literature on eating disorders, offering a nuanced examination of their medical complexities. This expanded edition builds on the original with updated research and deeper exploration of emerging topics such as weight stigma, neurodiversity, ARFID, and the often-overlooked "unmeasurable" medical symptoms patients experience. Drawing on extensive clinical experience and current evidence, Dr Gaudiani advances a holistic, weight-inclusive, and trauma-informed model of care that integrates physical, psychological, and social dimensions of health. Through well-structured case studies, evidence-based analysis, and practical recommendations, the volume serves as an indispensable resource for clinicians, patients, and caregivers navigating the multifaceted challenges of eating disorder treatment."
Debra K. Katzman, MD, FRCPC, FAED, FSAHM, professor of pediatrics, Division of Adolescent Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children and University of Toronto, senior associate Scientist, Research Institute, Hospital for Sick Children and pediatric lead, Eating Disorders Ontario
"Sick Enough, Second Edition challenges the harmful belief that only certain bodies deserve eating disorder treatment and care. This book emphasizes that medical risk can exist at any size. Dr Gaudiani continues to offer compassionate, trauma-informed insight into the medical complications of disordered eating, bridging the gap between physical health and psychological care in her second edition. This book is a vital resource for clinicians, patients, and families seeking to understand that being "not sick enough" is a myth that often delays life-saving care."
Dr. Whitney Trotter DNP, PMHNP-BC, RDN, LDN
"Dr Gaudiani's Sick Enough, Second Edition provides a pragmatic, concise yet comprehensive, blueprint of hope for evaluating and treating the vast range of medical complications common to those with eating disorders and undernutrition. Reflective of Dr G's impeccable and sincere devotion to her patients, their loved ones, and the providers who treat them, this updated version sensitively expands the therapeutic frame to include topics rarely recognized, much less discussed in the literature, that have profound implications for the health and well-being of our patients. As intended, her accessible and compassionate 'bedside' manner of communicating will ensure anyone reading this book impacted by or treating an eating disorder, or even those struggling with undernutrition such as athletes, will find empirically supported resources and practice-based evidence to improve the quality of their medical care and their pursuit of sustainable health and recovery."
Beth Hartman McGilley, PhD, FAED, CEDS-S, eating disorders specialist, author and educator
"Since publication in 2019, Sick Enough has been my right hand, my primary resource for all medical questions regarding eating disorders, but Sick Enough, Second Edition is all that and more: an absolutely essential guide for anyone seeking to understand these conditions. Thanks to decades of experience, Dr. Gaudiani shares her unrivaled understanding of the complexity of these disorders, the non-linear nature of recovery, the importance of harm reduction and the systemic challenges to patient-centered treatment. In Sick Enough, Second Edition, she stands by her patients and their loved ones in their worst moments, leading by example with her stellar medical care, uniting body and soul and restoring hope."
Margo Maine, PhD, FAED, CEDS, eating disorder specialist and author of Hair Tells a Story and Pursuing Perfection: Eating Disorders, Body Myths, and Women at Midlife and Beyond
"Dr Gaudiani's masterful integration of medical science with compassionate care continues to set the standard in our field. As a psychiatrist and medical director deeply engaged in complex eating disorder treatment, I've long considered Sick Enough essential reading-and this second edition, expanding on that foundation, has become the definitive resource for understanding the medical realities of eating disorders. Scientifically rigorous, deeply human, and indispensable to modern care, this book is a gift to patients, families, and professionals alike."
Wendy Oliver-Pyatt, MD, psychiatrist, CEO and CMO, Galen Hope and Within Health, fellow of the American Psychiatric Association and the Academy for Eating Disorders
"In a field that demands nuance and heart, Dr Gaudiani delivers both. The revised edition of Sick Enough is medically thorough, deeply compassionate, and this is an essential resource for professionals treating eating disorders."
Nicole Hawkins, PhD, CEDS-C, licensed psychologist, CEO, Center for Change
"The revised edition of Sick Enough delivers a comprehensive, sorely needed resource for anyone impacted by eating disorders. Written with deep compassion for those struggling and practical guidance for clinicians, it effectively bridges medical knowledge with affirming care. Grounded in weight-inclusive and identity-affirming principles, Dr. G offers concrete solutions and practice recommendations to improve reach, efficacy, and quality for all."
Scout Silverstein, MPH
"This book is essential for anyone, whether caregiver, patient, clinician or curious onlooker, who interacts with an eating disorder. Enjoyable to read, with ample case studies, it provides expert explanations of the medical consequences of eating disorders alongside superb insightful descriptions of the mental state of those with eating disorders. Taken from the book, this statement "Good medical care must unite body and soul" is the unifying theme throughout every chapter."
Therese S. Waterhous, PhD, RDN, CEDS, FAED
"Sick Enough, Second Edition is a great resource for both providers and clients as it contains information applicable to broader & specific population with eating disorders. I often share relevant sections with clients and they appreciate the matter-of-fact, yet non-judgmental and compassionate "hard evidence" and literature to wrap their head around the symptoms or risks they are facing. This book also helps ancillary providers (e.g., RDs) advocate for certain approaches or medications; more than once, I have heard medical providers say, "If Dr G is suggesting it, let's try it" and each time, it allowed the clients to feel heard as well as aided in rapport and trust building on my end (which can inevitably be more challenging sometimes as an RD!)."
Kia'ikai M Iguchi, MSc, MS, RD, CD, LD
"In the powerful Sick Enough, Second Edition, Dr Gaudiani brings deep clinical wisdom and humanity to the complexities of eating disorders and undernutrition. With clarity, empathy, and scientific rigor, she skillfully offers guidance that validates the lived experiences of patients and equips families and professionals with actionable, evidence-based insight. This book is essential reading for anyone committed to understanding and improving the care of people with eating disorders."
Riley Nickols, PhD, CEDS-C, counseling and sport psychologist, founder of Mind Body Endurance
"Having herself first gained awareness nearly a decade ago, through her extensive work in the challenging area of the eating disorders (EDs), of the mostly still unrecognized but indeed highly prevalent (and complex and variable) chronic multisystem inflammatory disorder now known as mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS), Dr. Gaudiani has now seen improvements in EDs and many other symptoms in countless "refractory" ED/MCAS patients thanks to her having integrated diagnosis and treatment of MCAS into her EDs-focused practice. She also has become a valuable resource regarding ED management in MCAS to the growing global community of physicians similarly gaining familiarity with MCAS. The updates in this second edition of Sick Enough doubtlessly will help many more ED patients and their physicians see the EDs in a new light, providing major new opportunities to effectively treat these ruinous afflictions."
Lawrence B. Afrin, MD, senior consultant in Hematology/Oncology, AIM Center for Personalized Medicine, New York, and author of Never Bet Against Occam: Mast Cell Activation Disease and the Modern Epidemics of Chronic Illness and Medical Complexity
"Sick Enough, Second Edition offers a thorough and insightful overview of the presentation and management of eating disorders and their common comorbidities. Drawing on years of clinical experience and an in-depth review of the literature, Dr Gaudiani brings both expertise and compassion to the subject. Her book is enriched by powerful clinical vignettes, providing a nuanced perspective on symptoms, treatment, and recovery. I highly recommend this book to primary care providers, nutritionists, and anyone involved in the care of patients with complex, chronic illnesses."
Alexis Cutchins, MD, assistant professor of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Emory University School of Medicine
"Sick Enough, Second Edition, provides extensive medical information based on years of experience working with eating disorder patients. Dr Jennifer Gaudiani presents case studies designed to educate medical providers, patients, and families, and includes patient vignettes to illustrate the importance of respect, compassion, communication, collaboration, and innovative approaches. The first edition of Dr Gaudiani's book initiated important conversations and influenced care for individuals with eating disorders and compassion and respect for those who suffer, and those who support them. This edition aims to further improve medical care quality, enhance hope, and develop new pathways of healing."
Linda Mazur and John Mazur, founder of The Emilee Connection and authors of Emilee: The Story of a Girl and Her Family Hijacked by Anorexia
"This book shines in the eating disorder world by combining science and the emotions of eating disorders and recovery. It is a must read for patients, families, physicians, therapists, and dietitians who want to understand the physical changes of a body with an eating disorder, and it masterfully describes the patient's journey. Readers will be enlightened by Dr Gaudiani's wisdom and experience."
Dirk Miller, PhD, founder and executive chair of The Emily Program
"Dr G brings clinical excellence and deep humanity to the remarkable Sick Enough, Second Edition, creating space for all individuals impacted by eating disorders, including those with complex or misunderstood presentations. With clarity and care, she reminds us of what truly person-centered care means-seeing the whole person, not just the diagnosis, and honoring diverse pathways of care and healing. This book is essential reading for anyone seeking to understand, support, and walk alongside those navigating the medical realities of eating disorders."
Shannon Calvert, Lived Experience Educator and Adviser (Eating Disorders, Mental Health and Palliative Care)
"Written with warmth and empathy, Sick Enough, Second Edition encompasses Dr Gaudiani's extensive knowledge of eating disorders. Dr Gaudiani has the courage to explore topics seldom covered by other authors in her field. A must-read for patients and their families grappling with eating disorders and for the medical professionals who care for them."
Patricia Westmoreland, MD, forensic psychiatrist and editor of Tipping the Scales: Ethical and Legal Dilemmas in Managing Severe Eating Disorders
"The updated and expanded Sick Enough, Second Edition is an essential resource for improving care for those affected by eating disorders and undernutrition. Dr Gaudiani skillfully integrates current research, clinical expertise and insights, evidence-based recommendations, and powerful patient stories to create an informative and accessible guide. Filled with compassion and practical guidance, this book is a must-read for healthcare providers, patients, and their loved ones."
Monika Saigal, MS, RD, CEDS-C, CDN, and author of Nourishing Dance: An Essential Guide on Nutrition, Body Image, and Eating Disorders
"Sick Enough, Second Edition, boldly continues the vital conversation of the body speaking to its person. Dr Gaudiani masterfully weaves compassion with medical insight, offering a poetic and unparalleled bridge between the heart and science. This book belongs in every academic setting-it's essential reading."
Rebecca McConville, MS, RD, CSSD, CEDRD-C, sports dietitian and eating disorder specialist
"Sick Enough, Second Edition is a one-of-a-kind resource-uniquely informative, engaging to read, and deeply compassionate in its approach to the medical complexities of eating disorders. With new sections that address a wider range of patient experiences, this edition expands its reach to include often-overlooked groups. Dr Gaudiani has created a meaningful and much-needed guide that makes the medical side of eating disorders clearer and more inclusive than ever before."
Sumner Brooks, MPH, RDN founder of EDRD Pro and co-author of How to Raise an Intuitive Eater
"This is an extraordinary book by an extraordinary healer. It belongs on the bookshelf or computer of every clinician or researcher who works with people who have eating disorders. Well-researched, informative, useful, highly readable and humane, this book is somehow both an excellent introduction to eating disorders for those who know little and an advanced text for those seeking detailed, complex, and nuanced medical information. We should all have physicians like Dr G who can be up-to-date and authoritative, who can listen carefully and full of care, and who can say, when it really matters to be humble and authentic, "I don't know, but I am here for you, and I aim to find out and move forward in your journey back to health."
Michael P. Levine, PhD, FAED, emeritus professor of psychology, Kenyon College
"Dr Gaudiani's Sick Enough, Second Edition is an essential companion for patients, families, support communities, and providers who work in the field of eating disorders. Compassionately and carefully, she provides crucial information for understanding illness and recovery. Her deep caring for her patients, combined with profound depth of knowledge, drawn from years of experience and knowledge of the literature, establishes this book as a must-read."
Mark Warren, MD, MPH, FAED, senior psychiatrist, co-founder of The Emily Program, Cleveland Center for Eating Disorders
"This book is authentic, accessible, and an invaluable gift, just like the author. Dr G pours her expertise and her heart into the gift that is the updated version of Sick Enough, while the addition of the focus on undernourishment helps cut through weight stigma as well as unintentional undernourishment, both so propelled by our cultural messages of food perfectionism, unattainable appearance standards, and misinformation. Once again, she helps people understand the raw, tenacious, and challenging nature of eating disorders, as well as see the bright light of hope that recovery can bring, with her in-depth and understandable handbook for individuals, families, providers, and students."
Jillian G. Lampert, PhD, RD, MPH, FAED, president, REDC Consortium and vice president of Strategy and Public Affairs, The Emily Program
"Once again, Dr Gaudiani has beautifully, wisely, and compassionately written a book that helps patients, their loved ones, and providers better understand and navigate the world of eating disorders, disordered eating, or inadvertent underfueling. Dr G puts all her knowledge and experience into the pages in a very educational, easily digestible format. This is a must read for anyone struggling with or treating low energy availability and navigating the complexities of the physical and mental sequelae of illness and recovery."
Kathryn Ackerman, MD, MPH, FACSM, director, Women's Health, Sports & Performance Institute, associate professor of medicine, Harvard Medical School
"If you could only pick one resource to help you understand the medical issues and nuances in the eating disorder population, Dr Jennifer Gaudiani has delivered it in Sick Enough, Second Edition. Dr Gaudiani's medical expertise, combined with the necessary compassion and empathy to effectively treat these psychologically and medically complex illnesses, makes this book an imperative addition to an eating disorder clinician's, patient's or loved one's library."
Carolyn Costin, MA, M.Ed. MFT, FAED, CEDS, The Carolyn Costin Institute and author of 8 Keys to Recovery from an Eating Disorder