Bulimia Nervosa

 

What is Bulimia Nervosa?
An eating disorder characterized by abnormal perception of body image, constant craving for food and binge eating, followed by self-induced vomiting or laxative use.

Who are most affected?
Adolescents or young adults, usually female.

What are the symptoms?
Recurrent episodes of binge eating (rapid consumption of a large amount of food in a short time, usually less than 2 hours), plus at least 3 of the following:

• -Preference for high-calorie, convenience foods during a binge.

• -Secretive eating during a binge.
• -Termination of an eating binge with purging measures, such as laxative use or self-induced vomiting.
• -Depression and guilt following an eating binge.
• -Repeated attempts to lose weight with severely restrictive diets, self-induced vomiting and use of laxatives or diuretics.
• -Frequent weight fluctuations.
• -No underlying physical disorder.

RISK INCREASES WITH

• -Strict, compulsive, perfectionist family environment.
• -Anorexia nervosa.
• -Depression.
• -Stress, including lifestyle changes, such as moving or starting a new school or job.
• -Preoccupation with being physically attractive.
• -Ballet dancers, gymnasts, models, cheerleaders and athletes.

HOW TO PREVENT?

• -Encourage rational attitude about weight.
• -Enhance self-esteem.
• -Avoid overly high self-expectations.
• -Avoid stress.

How to Treat it?
MEDICATION - Medication is usually not necessary for this disorder. However might be helpful for increasing confidence levels.

DIET:
-If hospitalization is necessary: Intravenous fluids may be prescribed. During recovery, vitamin and mineral supplements will be necessary until signs of deficiency disappear and normal eating patterns are established.

• -For outpatient therapy: Supervision and regulation of eating habits. A food diary may be maintained. Feared foods will be reintroduced.

THERAPY-  CBT, counseling, NLP are effective techniques