Facts & Dangers about Bulimia Nervosa

Bulimia Nervosa | Anorexia Nervosa | Binge Eating Disorder
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Bulimia Nervosa is an emotional disorder which consists of episodes of binge-eating followed by some forms of purging and/or severe dietary restraint. A "binge" is the secretive consumption of large amounts of food in a short period of time. Most bulimics follow the binge by self-induced vomiting, but "purging" may take the form of laxative or diuretic abuse, fasting, diet pills, or strenuous exercising. This binge-purge cycle is normally accompanied by self-deprecating thoughts, depressed mood, and an awareness that the eating behavior is abnormal and out of control.

Bulimia nervosa is more common than anorexia nervosa. Bulimia nervosa tends to develop in late adolescence and early adulthood, but it can occur in males and females of any age.

A person can be anorexic and bulimic at the same time. At least 40% of people with anorexia nervosa suffer simultaneously from bulimia.

Symptoms of Bulimia Nervosa

Fear of weight gain
Distinct and often uncontrollable, secretive episodes of binge eating followed by attempts to purge the food through self-induced vomiting, unhealthy dieting and/or use of laxatives, diuretics or diet aids
Depression and recurrent mood swings
Prolonged exercise for the purpose of weight control
Inability to discontinue binge-purge cycle
Problems with the throat, esophagus, stomach, and colon
Accumulation of fluid with swelling of the parotid glands
Dental problems
Emotional instability and impulsiveness
Dissatisfaction with body shape and preoccupation with becoming thin
Frequent weight fluctuation

Warning Signs of Bulimia Nervosa

Exhibit concern about their weight and make attempts to control weight by diet, vomiting, or laxative and diuretic abuse.
Eating pattern may alternate between binges and fasts.
Most are secretive about binges and vomiting.
Food consumed during a binge has a high caloric content.
Majority of individuals are within a normal weight, some may be slightly underweight or overweight.
Depressive moods and self-deprecating thoughts following a binge.

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