Bulimia nervosa is characterized by repeated episodes of binge eating and then purging in an attempt to prevent weight gain.
The binge eating that occurs with this disorder is characterized by excessive and rapid consumption of food when not feeling hungry.
There is a feeling of loss of control over their eating during a binge, followed or preceded by feelings of guilt, shame, disgust and depression.
Purging is most commonly self-induced vomiting, but can take the form of laxative abuse, diuretics, enemas, fasting or excessive exercise. Over time, the behaviours create serious health problems of the gastrointestinal system. Bulimics will binge and purge on a regular basis, in a ritual fashion or will binge eat as a response to emotions. Excessive stress, change over which they have no control, moving, leaving home – all are triggers for Bulimics to begin their ritual behaviours. (AD)
