Bulimia
Bulimia is an eating disorder that is characterized
by extreme overeating (bingeing) followed by self-induced
vomiting. Often, but not always, bulimia is associated with anorexia, in which bingeing and dieting are
both carried out to extremes.
What To Consider
Bulimics may be thin, normal, or slightly underweight.
If anorexia is part of the eating disorder, there will
be extreme loss of body weight. Bingeing and vomiting
may occur several times a day, after most meals, or
less frequently. Gastric symptoms, loss of menstruation,
swollen face and neck especially after coming out of
bathroom after eating meals, fatigue, dizziness, irritability,
poor cold tolerance, severe food cravings, excessive
exercise habits, poor stress coping skills, depression,
and even suicidal tendencies may also occur in cases
of chronic or severe bulimia. Vomiting exposes the teeth
to gastric juice and there may be dental erosion. Using
the hand to force vomiting may cause callouses on the
back of the hands where the skin hits the teeth during
the procedure.
Since bulimia is often performed in "secret," the rate
of occurrence is not fully established. However, it
is much more prevalent in women between the ages of
12 and 30.
Nutrient deficiencies (especially zinc), food allergies,
and amino acid imbalances can all result from or contribute
to bulimia, and therefore should be screened for. In
addition, although in both anorexia nervosa and bulimia
nervosa, the underlying causative factors are commonly
believed to be solely due to an obsession with body
fat, a fear of being (or becoming) fat, or over-concern
with perfectionism and are indeed important, recent
studies also show that in most cases, an underlying
zinc deficiency may contribute to both disorders.
Self-Care Tips
Diet
A whole
foods diet with regular eating patterns is very important.
Also avoid all products containing sugar and white flour,
and be sure to obtain sufficient protein sources to
adequately nourish the body.
Nutritional Supplementation
Liquid ionic multi-mineral complex and multivitamin
complex supplements can help overcome the extreme vitamin
and mineral deficiencies associated with binge and purge
eating and overuse of laxatives. Complex amino acids
can also assist in balancing blood sugar levels, which
helps reduce food cravings.
Flower Essences
Various essences can be useful for addressing
the underlying emotional and mental states of imbalance
and negativity such as fears, perfectionism, manipulative
behavior, depression, and anxiety. Crab Apple is particularly
useful for coping with obsessive habits relating to
body image.
Homeopathy
Calc carb., Ipecac., and Graphites are
useful remedies for bulimia.
Caution
If your symptoms persist despite the above measures,
seek the help of a qualified health professional.
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