Bulimia Nervosa is categorized by periods of binge eating, or consuming a large amount of food with an associated loss of control, and purging in an attempt to rid the body of calories consumed during the binge. Purging, although commonly thought to be synonymous with vomiting, can also include restriction of calories, excessive exercise, inappropriate use of laxatives or diuretics, or diet pills.
Behaviors and Signs
Bingeing- consuming a large amount of food in a short period of time accompanied by a feeling of loss of control
Compensatory behaviors (Purging (vomiting), fasting, excessive exercise, using laxatives or diuretics, using diet pills)
Feeling preoccupied with weight or shape
Feeling excessively fearful of gaining weight or “being fat”
Excessive weighing
Body checking – examining, pinching or feeling part of the body to determine their shape or change in shape
Preoccupation with food including what to eat, when to eat, and how much to eat
Self-evaluation is dependent on shape and weight
Health Risks
Dehydration which can lead to kidney failure
Heart problems, including irregular heart beat or heart failure
