In the 1200s, medieval Christian women practiced extreme fasting as part of a phenomenon known as 'anorexia mirabilis' or holy anorexia, aiming to achieve spiritual purity and emulate the lives of saints. This practice often led to severe malnutrition and starvation, reflecting the intense religious fervor and societal pressures of the time. The phenomenon highlights the intersection of religion, gender, and health in medieval society, raising questions about the role of spirituality in physical well-being.

Anorexia mirabilis, a form of religious fasting around 1200, inspired hagiographic literature and feminist reinterpretations in poetry. This phenomenon prompted poets to explore themes of female agency, devotion, and self-denial, enriching the discourse on women's roles in spirituality.