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Mumsnet hasn't checked the qualifications of anyone posting here. If you have medical concerns, please seek medical attention; if you think your problem could be acute, do so immediately. Even qualified doctors can't diagnose over the internet, so do bear that in mind when seeking or giving advice. If you need to talk to someone in confidence, please contact Beat, the UK’s eating disorder charity.
Eating disorders
Alternative to Birthday cake
Nowayhozay · 03/12/2020 17:24
I wonder if anyone has any ideas for an alternative to cake to celebrate the Birthday of a young man who has Anorexia.
He is really working hard on his recovery but I thought it would be nice if we could come up with an alternative so that he doesnt feel pressured or unable to partake.
He can get really upset if he feels he is struggling, just be nice to take that struggle away on this occasion
iano · 03/12/2020 17:29
Sorry i have no experiences of eating disorders so this may be way off, but google 'cake made of fruit'. Watermelon and the like cut into a cake shape. Looked and tasted fab!! Friend said it was super easy to make. I hope that's helpful
Barmbraic · 03/12/2020 17:31
What food would he be comfortable having as a celebration? Something like the cake above sounds lovely as long as he would be happy with it.
MummytoCSJH · 03/12/2020 17:32
I responded on the app but think because I attached a photo it didn't post. Exactly as pp says I suggested a cake of fruit, hopefully the picture attaches this time! I had these when I was first in recovery from my ED, they are a good compromise.
Zippea · 03/12/2020 17:33
Rather than a large cake that seems insurmountable, what about smaller cupcakes size/style of cake
My friend is in recovery and whenever I was with her I kept things as normal And as low key as possible.
Ukholidaysaregreat · 03/12/2020 17:35
O that cake looks beautiful! Have good candles and a sparkler. It's more about the singing and the sentiment than eating the cake. Just cut some slices but don't hand them out. Have one yourself and let others take one if they choose.
MrsMigginsMate · 03/12/2020 17:35
Are you looking for a non-food alternative? Something crafted to put the candles in or do you have specific parameters for the food he will accept?
CorianderQueen · 03/12/2020 18:00
Melon cut into a cake shape with low calorie jelly sprinkled on it?
CorianderQueen · 03/12/2020 18:01
Or actual sugar free jelly filled with grapes and made in a Bundt tin?
Nowayhozay · 08/12/2020 10:43
Thank you all for your fantastic suggestions, I love the cake made from fruit and also the Jelly idea.
Having spoken to his girlfriend, she feels its important to keep things as normal as possible and that he may feel akward.
We have decided on a small simple sponge cake with a thin filling of cream and jam, hopefully not as overwhelming as a big choclate affair.
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