Bulimia Nervosa

Common Behaviors and Symptoms

Individuals with bulimia may exhibit the following behaviors and symptoms:

• Recurrent episodes of eating large quantities of food in a short period
• Feeling a lack of control over eating during binge episodes
• Engaging in compensatory behaviors such as self-induced vomiting, misuse of laxatives, diuretics, or enemas
• Excessive exercise to prevent weight gain
• Preoccupation with body weight and shape
• Frequent dieting or fasting
• Eating in secret or hiding food

Symptoms of Bulimia Nervosa

The following symptoms can indicate the need for professional eating disorder treatment for bulimia:

• Chronic sore throat
• Swollen salivary glands in the neck and jaw area
• Worn tooth enamel and increasingly sensitive and decaying teeth due to exposure to stomach acid
• Acid reflux disorder and other gastrointestinal problems
• Severe dehydration from purging
• Electrolyte imbalance, which can lead to heart problems such as irregular heartbeats or even heart failure
• Social withdrawal and isolation

Bulimia Nervosa in Different Populations

Bulimia affects individuals across all demographics. Research indicates that approximately 1.5% of women and 0.5% of men will experience bulimia at some point in their lives. It frequently co-occurs with other mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and substance abuse disorders.

How is Bulimia Nervosa Diagnosed?

According to DSM-5, the diagnostic criteria for bulimia include:

• Recurrent episodes of binge eating, characterized by:
  • Eating, in a discrete period, an amount of food larger than what most people would eat in a similar period under similar circumstances
  • A sense of lack of control over eating during the episode
• Recurrent inappropriate compensatory behaviors to prevent weight gain, such as self-induced vomiting, misuse of laxatives, diuretics, or other medications, fasting, or excessive exercise
• The binge eating and inappropriate compensatory behaviors both occur, on average, at least once a week for three months
• Self-evaluation is unduly influenced by body shape and weight
• The disturbance does not occur exclusively during episodes of anorexia nervosa

Bulimia Nervosa’s Relationship to Other Eating Disorders

Bulimia is distinct from other eating disorders such as Anorexia Nervosa and Binge Eating Disorder. However, it shares common features such as preoccupation with food and body image, and the use of eating as a way to cope with emotional distress. Unlike anorexia, individuals with bulimia may maintain a normal weight or be overweight, but they share a similar fear of gaining weight.

Bulimia Health Risks

Bulimia can lead to numerous serious health risks, including:

• Electrolyte imbalances, which can lead to irregular heartbeats and possibly heart failure
• Inflammation and rupture of the esophagus due to frequent vomiting
• Tooth decay and staining from stomach acids
• Chronic irregular bowel movements and constipation due to laxative abuse
• Gastric rupture during periods of bingeing
• Mental health issues such as depression and anxiety
• Increased risk of substance abuse

Nurtured Nutrition’s Approach to Bulimia Nervosa Care

At Nurtured Nutrition, we provide specialized care for individuals with Bulimia Nervosa, leveraging our extensive experience and a holistic approach to treatment.

• Role in the Care Team: We work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team, including a therapist, psychiatrist, and primary care physician (PCP).
• Specialized Nutrition Counseling: Our comprehensive approach includes:
  • Nutritional Rehabilitation: Developing meal plans that ensure balanced nutrition and address the cycles of binge eating and purging.
  • Managing Binge and Purge Behaviors: Implementing strategies to manage and reduce binge and purge episodes, such as identifying triggers and developing coping mechanisms.
  • Nutritional Education: Educating individuals on forming positive thoughts and behaviors related to food and body image, and understanding the importance of a balanced diet.
  • Cultivating Healthful Eating Habits: Helping individuals establish regular eating patterns and a healthy relationship with food.
  • Family Involvement: Encouraging family participation in the treatment process to provide support and create a healthy home environment.
  • Mindful Eating Practices: Teaching individuals to develop a mindful approach to eating, which includes paying attention to hunger and fullness cues and enjoying food without guilt.

If additional support is needed, we can facilitate referrals to other experienced providers, ensuring a comprehensive care approach.

Insurance and Coverage

Nurtured Nutrition is in-network with most common insurance providers in the area, allowing for accessible and cost-effective options. Click here for a list of accepted insurances

Regain Control with Nurtured Nutrition

If you or a loved one is struggling with bulimia, we are here to help. Contact us at (508) 688-4794 to speak with a specialist or complete the form on our website to start your journey to recovery.

At Nurtured Nutrition, our team of dietitians and nutritionists is dedicated to helping individuals with eating disorders like bulimia. Our expertise in providing tailored nutritional counseling and support ensures that you receive the best possible care for your recovery journey.