Bulimia is another type of eating disorder characterized by a cycle of bingeing (overeating) and self-induced vomiting. People with bulimia may use other behaviors to “make up for” their binging, such as laxative abuse, fasting and exercise. Bulimic girls often eat a large amount of food at one sitting, and then feel like they have “lost control.” By vomiting or using any other type of compensatory behavior, bulimics believe that they have regained control over their body.

Bulimic women have a preoccupation with bodyweight and the desire to be underweight or “thin.” What many teens don’t realize is that bulimia is very dangerous for the body, particularly the digestive system. Many essential electrolytes and chemicals that are found in your digestive system will be removed or affected by excessive bingeing and purging (throwing up or using laxatives to get rid of the food eaten). These nutrients affect your heart and other organs of your body. There are many other long-term effects of bulimia, including tooth decay, chronic irregular bowel movements, and irritation of the esophagus.

Eating Disorders
Anorexia Nervosa
Compulsive Overeating