Bulimia Nervosa

Bulimia Nervosa

Bulimia is characterized by recurrent episodes of binge-eating alternating with self-induced vomiting, laxative and diuretic abuse and over-exercise.  Binge-eating is the consumption of extremely large quantities of food in a short period of time followed by purging it.  

• Binge-eating

• Purging

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

• Secretive eating during a binge.

• Consumption of large amounts of food

• Abuse of laxatives and diuretics.

• Depression and guilt following an eating binge.

• Repeated attempts to lose weight.

• Over-exercising.

• Fasting.

• Stealing food, laxatives and diuretics.

• Frequent weight fluctuations greater than 10 pounds from alternately fasting and gorging.

• No underlying physical disorder.

• Etching of teeth from stomach acid.

• Reddened and sore throat from irritation of vomiting stomach acid.  

Adapted from:

Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.  Vol. IV  American Psychiatric        Association.  1994

Factoid:

  Reported rates of bulimia nervosa vary from one to three out of 100 young people.
(U.S. Department of Health And Human Services, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Center for Mental Health Services).