Bulimia
Alternate Names : Binging-Purging, Bulimia Nervosa, Hyperorexia
Bulimia is a chronic eating disorder. It is characterized by periods of eating and then trying to avoid weight gain.
What is going on in the body?
Individuals with bulimia secretly eat large amounts of food in a short period. This is called binge eating. They then try to avoid weight gain. They may do this by one of the following methods:
fasting
inducing vomiting
using laxatives to have bowel movements
taking diuretics, or water pills
What are the causes and risks of the condition?
Bulimia is thought to be a result of social, psychological, and biological factors. Genetics may contribute. Mood disorders are more common in family members of those who develop bulimia.
Social factors play a major role. Some societies emphasize thinness. Family problems, self-esteem, and identity conflicts are also factors. Bulimia is most common in females in adolescence or young adulthood.
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