The word bulimia is derived from the Greek words for “ox” and “hunger.” That’s because people who suffer from this eating disorder often binge, or consume large amounts of food in a short period of time. They then attempt to rid themselves of the excess calories in an unhealthy manner, such as by vomiting or abusing laxatives.

As with anorexia and other eating disorders, this mental illness is most common in adolescent and young women and is intertwined with self-image disturbances and a desire for control. People with bulimia often restrict their food intake the majority of the time and then eat to the point of discomfort—taking in thousands of calories at once—before purging. Most people suffering from the disorder have an addiction- like relationship with food. Behaviors typical of bulimics include hoarding food and going to the bathroom after meals, and typical symptoms include bloating, fatigue, weakness, dehydration, constipation, and damaged teeth.

Bulimia can also cause long-term health problems. Excessive vomiting can tear or ruptur the esophagus. It can also result in an irregular heartbeat, low blood pressure, and, in severe cases, death. What’s more, bulimia is often linked to depression and feelings of shame. Because people with bulimia can have a normal body weight, the illness is not detected as easily as anorexia. That’s one reason only 6 percent of sufferers receive the proper psychological treatment. To help people recover, experts recommend they undergo psychotherapy or other counseling.

ADDITIONAL FACTS

  1. In ancient Rome, wealthy men would induce vomiting at lavish banquets so they could continue eating.
  2. People who are often on diets are 18 times more likely to develop an eating disorder.