How to Treat Bulimia
What is Bulimia?
Bulimia is an eating disorder that is characterized by a lack of eating followed by binging (overeating). It is known technically as bulimia nervosa and the individual suffering with it has an unhealthy view of eating and losing weight. Additionally, this period of binging is normally accompanied by lowered self esteem and feelings of guilt. The average age of the individual who develops the disorder is 18. The person suffering with the disorder tries to overcome their feelings of guilt and low self esteem in a number of different ways.
The most common method of trying to do this is known as purging or defensive vomiting where the individuals gag themselves forcing them to regurgitate their food. However, the person will also resort to fasting, over exercising, or using diuretics, enemas, or laxatives. The disorder is 9 times more likely to develop in women than men are and 20% of all individuals suffering with bulimia. For women aged 15 to 24, the mortality rate associated with eating disorders is 12 times higher than all other causes of death.
Counseling, medications, and therapies for the treatment of bulimia
Several forms of treatment have been recognized for how to treat bulimia. These include counseling methods, medications, and therapies.
Medications - certain anti-depressants are prescribed for treating bulimia, the most common of which are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or SSRI’s and a qualified bulimia treatment plan. Although Prozac is the only FDA approved medication for the treatment of bulimia and other eating disorders, current research is being conducted using Zoloft. So far, the results are positive and show that Zoloft is effective for treating eating disorders in adults.
Nutritional counseling – clients are taught when and how much to eat in many bulimia treatment programs. Diets include plenty of nutrients while sugar is eliminated from their diets because it leads to binging. Alcohol, caffeine, cigarettes, flavor enhancers, and salt should also be avoided.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – teaches the individual how to alter their distorted thinking about food, which leads to their compulsive eating behavior. It also helps the individual to deal with the pressure and stress of everyday life.
If you or a loved one is suffering with bulimia or any other eating disorder and would like more information on Harmony Grove and how to treat bulimia, call us at the toll-free number above.