Bulimia is more complex than forced vomiting by Rachel Velishek

Bulimia is an eating disorder based on a loss of control over eating habits and a desire to stay thin. 

A majority of individuals believe the eating disorder to be throwing up after meals. However, there is more to the disorder than just vomiting.

1.       Bulimia consists of a roller coaster of bad habits. Bulimia is characterized by binge eating.  Individuals are concerned about body image. Binge eating is uncontrollable eating in which an abnormally large portion of food is consumed within a short period of time. Individuals with this disorder tend to binge in secret and will feel immense guilt for the binge episode. The difference between bulimia and other eating disorders is that bulimia includes forced vomiting. Individuals with bulimia will continue the binge eating-vomiting cycle and then go through periods of not eating.  It is possible that bulimia may also include compulsive exercising.  Individual with bulimia will take exercising to an extreme, exercising for hours a day, which may possibly impact other health areas.  

2.        Bulimia is a mental disorder. Although bulimia is classified as an eating disorder, it may also be considered a mental disorder.  According to the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa, eating disorders such as bulimia are the most fatal mental health conditions in the United Sates.  This fact is attributed to long-term health problems as well as suicide. Individuals with bulimia may feel shame and guilt regarding control of behaviors.

3.       Bulimia is not exclusive to women. While studies show that women are more prone to eating disorders, bulimia is not gender specific. According to the National Association of Anorexia nervosa, 15 percent of individuals with an eating disorder are male. Men are less likely to exhibit noticeable symptoms or seek appropriate treatments.

4.       Bulimics may have normal body weights. Individuals with bulimia can experience episodes of anorexia, but overall they still consume more calories. This explains why many people with bulimia still fall within the normal range of body weight. It’s deceptive to loved ones, and may possibly cause a doctor to miss the diagnosis.

5.       Bulimia affects more than just your weight. Every part of an individual’s body is impacted by nutrition and healthy eating habits. Bulimia may also cause anemia, low blood pressure, irregular heart rate, dry skin, ulcers, dehydration, esophageal ruptures, gastrointestinal problems, irregular periods and kidney failure.

6.       Bulimia is a life-long battle. Bulimia is treatable, but symptoms may return without warning. It is important to first identify the underlying cues and warning signs. Maintain regular mental health treatments. Seeking treatment may assist in preventing relapse. According to statistics, only 1 out of 10 people will seek treatment for an eating disorder.

Please remember the only solution to long-term weight maintenance is a sensible diet and exercise plan without yo-yo dieting. Working to develop a healthy body image and lifestyle is a must.

 

Rachel Velishek is a licensed professional clinical counselor with Fisher-Titus Medical Care-Psychiatry, Fisher-Titus Medical Park 3, Suite 950, 272 Benedict Ave., Norwalk. Her office can be reached at 419-668-0311.