The Truth About Bulimia

All month long we’ve been talking about eating disorders. We’ve discussed the myths about eating disorders and the truth about anorexia. This week we’re going to be talking about the truth about bulimia.

Bulimia is an eating disorder and mental illness. It is characterized by overeating, or binging, and then eliminating, or purging, the food – either by use of laxatives or vomiting.  It is a method used to control weight, although those with bulimia usually end up gaining weight in the long run.

The Truth about Bulimia

Those with bulimia are usually caucasian females, but any age group, gender and ethnicity can acquire bulimia. It often begins during puberty or shortly after. Many young women who become bulimic do so because they think they can control their weight this way but the truth is most people who are bulimic end up gaining weight. Up to 50% of food that is consumed cannot be purged or eliminated with laxatives and is absorbed and metabolized by the body. Over time someone with bulimia can become obese if they aren’t already.

Secrets

If you’re bulimic, you’re probably working hard at keeping it a secret. Binging and purging large amounts of food is just not something most people are willing to discuss in public so bulimics keep their secret to themselves. Not only is there the mess that needs to be cleaned from the physical aspects of the illness, but those with bulimia tend to isolate themselves from their peers so they can binge and purge.

Physical Effects

There are many tale tell signs of bulimia. Someone with bulimia who is purging will often have discolored teeth, marks on the back of their hand where their teeth scrape the skin causing bruising and abrasions. Someone with bulimia may also have blood shot eyes from trying to purge after all food has seemingly been eliminated and they may develop bloody noses seemingly without injury. Bulimics risk tearing their esophagus or rupturing it.

Those who use laxatives also suffer from negative side effects of bulimia. Those who abuse laxatives often suffer from constipation. Diuretics can cause kidney damage.

It’s Not Worth It

Clearly there is no upside to bulimic behaviors. The good news is, bulimia can be treated successfully.  If you or someone you know needs treatment for bulimia or other eating disorders please call the eating disorder hotline at NEDA at 1-800-931-2237.