Bulimia

Definition

Bulimia is an eating disorder that involves extreme overeating (binging) followed by self-induced vomiting (purging). Often, but not always, bulimia is associated with anorexia which is the process or disease of starving oneself to be thin.

Signs and symptoms

Bulimics might appear very underweight, thin, or average size. If anorexia is also present, rapid weight loss is very noticeable. Bingeing and vomiting may occur several times a day after every meal, or it may occur less frequently because each bulimic is different. Gastric symptoms, loss of menstruation, fatigue, dizziness, irritability, poor cold tolerance, severe food cravings, excessive exercise routines, inability to cope with stress, depression, and suicidal tendencies are all common. Directly after purging, bulimics will often have a red face and neck, as well as watery eyes. This is caused by the forceful nature of vomiting. Dental erosion is also a common occurrence in bulimics due to the acidity of vomit. Repeated purging slowly wears away the enamel on the teeth, and can causes rashes on the hands.

Bulimia is typically a private disorder most people hide. Due to the secretive nature of bulimia, the rate of occurrences is not fully established. However, eating disorders are far more prevalent in women than it is in men. Generally, bulimia occurs in women between the ages of 12 and 30.

Trigger

Eating disorders are commonly attributed with the need to be thin, a fear of becoming fat, or the obsession with physical perfection. Those suffering from bulimia or anorexia typically do not see themselves as those around them do. Poor body image is a common trigger that may possibly need to be addressed by a therapist.

Natural Remedies

Diet: A whole foods diet plan with a regular eating pattern is very important. Avoid all products containing sugar and white flour that cause weight gain. Instead, focus on healthy foods that nourish and replenish the body.

Flower Essences: Flower essences can be useful for addressing the underlying psychological and mental state associated with bulimia. This includes mental imbalance and negativity, such as fear, perfectionism, manipulative behavior, depression, and anxiety. Crab Apple is particularly helpful for coping with obsessive habits associated with body image.

Homeopathy: Calc carb., Ipecac., and Graphites are useful treatments for bulimia.

Nutritional Supplementation: Liquid ionic multi-mineral and multivitamin supplements are necessary to overcome extreme vitamin and nutrient deficiencies caused by binging and purging. Complex amino acids can also help to balance blood-sugar levels, which helps decrease food cravings.

Alternative Professional Care

If your signs and symptoms persist despite following the remedies listed above, seek the help of a qualified medical expert. The following expert treatments have all proven to be helpful for treating and relieving the symptoms of bulimia: Biofeedback Instruction, Hypnotherapy, Light Therapy, Naturopathic Treatments, Qigong, and traditional Chinese Medicine. (See Glossary for descriptions of these alternative therapies.)