Bulimia Nervosa is characterised by binge eating. Binge eating involves eating in a discreet period of time (eg. 2 hours) that is more food than most people would eat in a similar time and circumstances. In addition, people often feel that they cannot stop eating or control what or how much they are eating during this time.
Individuals with Bulimia then try and prevent weight gain following these episodes, using strategies such as vomiting, misusing laxatives, diuretics, enemas, fasting or excessive exercise. This binge eating and use of different strategies to cope will occur at least twice a week for three months. Individuals with Bulimia unduly evaluate themselves according to their body shape and weight. Bulimia can occur in individuals at normal body weight and during episodes of anorexia.
There are two main types of Bulimia Nervosa – these are purging and non-purging type.
- The purging type is characterised by regularly inducing vomiting or misusing laxatives, diuretics or enemas.
- The non-purging type is characterised by using strategies such as fasting or excessive exercise. Use of vomiting, misuse of laxatives, diuretics and enemas are not regular.
Symptoms
- Obsession with food, calories, or body weight
- Skipping meals or extreme food restriction
- Frequent trips to the bathroom after eating
- Excessive exercise
- Rapid weight loss or gain
- Mood changes, depression, or anxiety
- Withdrawal from social activities
Treatment
- If you think you may have an eating disorder, see a GP as soon as you can. A GP will ask about your eating habits and how you’re feeling, plus check your overall health and weight.
- They may refer you to an eating disorder specialist or team of specialists.
- It can be very hard to admit you have a problem and ask for help. It may make things easier if you bring a friend or loved one with you to your appointment.
- You can also talk in confidence to an adviser from eating disorders charity Beat by calling the Beat helpline on 0808 801 0677.
Download Bulimia Fact Sheet
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