Bulimia Introduction - OmniMedicalSearch.com, by Lindsey Ricciardi, Ph.D

Bulimia is a complex disorder that requires years of treatment with an increased rate of relapse and lingering health consequences. Unfortunately, science is not able to offer answers to questions such what causes bulimia and why bulimia affects certain individuals, so there are no sure ways to prevent this disorder. However, the most effective approach in preventing the development of bulimia is by paying attention to the early signs of the disorder and not allowing them to become pathological. Parents and medical physicians can help in the initial phases on development. Parents are responsible with cultivating and reinforcing a healthy body image in their children by not according too much attention and importance to the body shape and appearance. Parents should avoid making remarks or comments implying that being thin means being popular or healthy and should not punish or reward their child behaviors or acts with food. Also they should build a strong self-esteem in their children based on their skills, talents, and qualities, rather than physical appearance.

Since bulimia has a genetic component, those that come from families with a history of eating disorders should become aware of possible early signs. Parents should watch over their children if they observe an abnormal preoccupation with being thin, dieting or excessive exercising. Medical physicians, especially pediatricians can also look for possible signs of an eating disorder during regular checks by asking the children about their eating habits and level of satisfaction with their physical appearance, weight, and body shape.

In some cases, bulimia develops as a consequences to the decision of losing weight usually taken to the extreme. The idea of losing weight and achieving a perfect figure can turn into an obsession leading to dysfunctional eating behaviors and habits. In order to avoid slipping into the vicious cycles of binge eating and purging, the person interested in losing weight or staying fit should understand the importance of maintaining a functional balance between eating normal, eating a variety of food groups, exercising, and to set realistic goals that can be achieve without drastic measures.

Another effective approach in staying healthy is maintaining an active lifestyle that balances all aspects of one's life which might include: school, work, social life and activities, relaxation and vacation, as well as exercising and staying fit.

Conditions & Diseases: Eating & Weight Disorders

Bulimia Nervosa

Bulimia Nervosa Prevention