Different Types of Eating Disorders: Bulimia Nervosa

Eating disorders are varied and span from anorexia (known for starvation) to bulimia (known for purging behaviors) to binge eating (consuming enormous amounts of food in one sitting). This article will cover the dangers of bulimia nervosa, the eating disorder’s symptoms, and treatment options.

The Lord created food to nourish and sustain us, and often, eating brings us pleasure. But when we turn to food to fulfill a need deep inside, it creates a problem that can lead to different types of eating disorders. When we turn to God to fulfill that spiritual need and allow Him to change our negative thoughts and behaviors, our eating habits align with what He intended.

What is bulimia nervosa?

Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by purging behaviors. The person with bulimia may eat average-sized meals or overeat but then purge the food to empty the stomach before the body has time to digest the food thoroughly. Purging methods can include forced vomiting, laxatives, diuretics, and overexercise.

Some people employ a variety of purging methods. For example, a person living with bulimia may induce vomiting after a large meal and then exercise for an hour to ensure that they have burned any calories they missed.

Purging becomes an impulsive behavior. It may reach the point that the body will no longer physically tolerate food. When bulimia reaches a dangerous level, medical treatment is imperative to stabilize physical health.

Symptoms of bulimia nervosa

The symptoms of bulimia include:

• Binging behaviors.
• Disappearing into the bathroom after a meal.
• Cuts and scrapes on the fingers and knuckles from induced vomiting.
• Dental cavities, enamel erosion, and discoloration from vomiting.
• Bad breath.
• Constipation.
• Dehydration.
• Fatigue.
• Anxiety and depression.
• Poor body image.
• Absence of a menstrual period.
• Spending too much time exercising.
• Obsessed with exercise and dieting.

People living with bulimia may be of average weight, slightly underweight, or somewhat overweight. The battle to maintain weight is exhausting, as with the other types of eating disorders.

Treatment for bulimia nervosa

Treatment for bulimia depends on the severity of the eating disorder. The priority is the individual’s physical health. Medical treatment may need to occur first, followed by mental health treatment.

Once the body is stabilized and no longer in danger, a counselor can work with the person living with bulimia. Treatment may include talk therapy, group therapy, or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

CBT is used in a variety of mental disorders. With CBT, the counselor and client identify negative thoughts and emotions and analyze the root cause. Next, the client practices reframing the thoughts and choosing different behaviors.

Talk therapy and group therapy are effective methods for overcoming eating disorders. Group therapy with other people managing eating disorder behavior can shed light on what strategies work. Likewise, it provides encouragement and support.

Christian counseling for eating disorders

Do you suspect that you show signs of bulimia or one of the other types of eating disorders? Are you curious how Christian counseling can help you overcome bulimia? Contact our office today to schedule an appointment. Our team will connect you with a counselor specializing in eating disorders. Changing behavior does not happen overnight, but with Jesus’ grace and compassion, you will overcome bulimia. Reach out to us today.