Bulimia Nervosa

Let’s talk about this topic and see if we or someone we know is affected by it and how we can help.

Definition of the Disorder

Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder where an individual consumes large amounts of food in a short period and then feels guilty and tries to get rid of what they have eaten in various ways. This is not only through vomiting but can also include using laxatives, diuretics, or excessive exercise. This disorder is serious and has multiple complications.

Symptoms of Bulimia Nervosa

If you find that you have some of the following symptoms, you might be suffering from this disorder:

Consuming large amounts of food in a short period and getting rid of it in various ways.
Inability to control eating.
Feeling disgusted with oneself after eating.
Constant fear of gaining weight and being judged by others.
Excessive preoccupation with weight and body image.
Excessive exercise.
Misuse of laxatives or diuretics.
Going to the bathroom immediately after meals.
Avoiding social occasions to avoid eating in front of others.
Tooth discoloration due to stomach acid from frequent vomiting.
Gastric reflux, feeling heartburn after vomiting.
Misuse of dietary supplements or herbs for weight loss.
Constipation due to constant vomiting and lack of fiber.

Complications of Bulimia Nervosa

If untreated, this disorder can lead to severe complications such as:

Kidney failure.
Heart problems.
Gum disease and tooth decay.
Digestive problems.
Dehydration and nutrient deficiencies.
Chemical imbalance in the body, such as electrolyte deficiency.
Absence of menstruation.
Anxiety and depression.
Substance or alcohol abuse.

Prevalence of the Disorder

It is estimated that this disorder affects 1.5% of women and 0.5% of men, and it usually begins in adolescence. There are many factors that influence its development, including social, genetic, biological, and psychological factors. It is believed that people who develop bulimia nervosa might have had other eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa. Some studies suggest a link between this disorder and a deficiency of serotonin in the brain.

How to Help

If you know someone suffering from this disorder, you can help them in the following ways:

Be a good listener and encourage them to talk.
Suggest seeing a psychiatrist.
Offer support and encouragement without criticism.
Avoid saying things like “You need to stop eating” or “You don’t look bad.”

Diagnosis of the Disorder

A doctor can diagnose the disorder through the following:

Blood and urine tests.
Physical examination.
Heart examination if the case is severe.
Using DSM-5 criteria to determine the severity of the disorder.

DSM-5 criteria include:

Recurrent episodes of binge eating.
Vomiting or excessive exercise or misuse of laxatives or fasting.
Low self-esteem due to weight and body image.
Recurrent binge eating and purging at least once a week for three months.
No anorexia nervosa.

Classification of bulimia nervosa based on the number of binge episodes:

Mild: 1 to 3 episodes per week.
Moderate: 4 to 7 episodes per week.
Severe: 8 to 13 episodes per week.
Very severe: 14 or more episodes per week.

Treatment of Bulimia Nervosa

Treatment includes medical, psychological, and nutritional approaches:

Medications: Fluoxetine (Prozac) is the only medication used and is also helpful in treating depression and anxiety.
Psychotherapy: Cognitive behavioral therapy and group therapy.
Nutritional counseling: Consultation with a nutritionist.
Treatment of health complications.

Effect of Keto Diet

Some studies suggest that the ketogenic diet might be beneficial for some individuals with bulimia nervosa, especially after learning healthy eating habits. A study conducted in 2020 showed significant reductions in binge-eating episodes and food addiction symptoms.

Conclusion

If you suffer from this disorder or know someone who does, it is essential to seek professional medical help as soon as possible to ensure recovery and minimize complications.

Study link: Study on Bulimia Nervosa and Ketogenic Diet

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