Browsing: Eating Disorders

Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is an uncommon inherited disorder characterized by mental retardation, decreased muscle tone, short stature, emotional liability and an insatiable appetite which can lead to life-threatening obesity. The syndrome was first described in 1956 by Drs. Prader, Labhart, and Willi.

Background: The word rumination is derived from the Latin word ruminare, which means to chew the cud. Rumination is the…

When I woke up this morning, there were candy bar wrappers all over the kitchen, and I had a stomach ache. I had chocolate on my face and hands. My husband says I was up eating last night, but I have no memories of doing so. Could he be playing a joke on me?

The pro bulimia movement, which is often known as pro-mia or just mia, is part of a movement that claims bulimia is a lifestyle choice and not a mental illness. Pro bulimia proponents seek to promote acceptance of bulimia and they often offer encouragement to bulimics. These pro bulimia or pro-mia individuals deny the horrifying physical consequences of the disease and its ability to kill if left untreated.

I guess I was always a binge eater; I don’t remember when I became bulimic. I remember doing it occasionally in university, and after I graduated when I was alone all the time. It seemed like I had no friends at all to lean on, except myself.

(Editor’s note: This author wishes to remain anonymous. Learn how bulimia stories like this can save a life.)

(Editor’s note: This author shares her bulimia story, but wishes to remain anonymous.)

Every bulimic has a bulimia story to share. Each person has a unique story about what led them to becoming bulimic. These bulimia stories can be very helpful for other sufferers of bulimia because it shows them they are not alone and it shows them that other people have recovered from the illness. This type of bulimia story gives the reader hope that they can recover too.

A bulimia support group can be essential in initial and long-term recovery from bulimia. Bulimia is a devastating eating disorder that can cause severe side effects, up to and including death, if not properly treated. Research shows that 1% – 3% of women (and a growing number of men) will suffer from bulimia nervosa at some point in their lives and bulimia support groups are one of the places these people, and their families, can get help.

Knowing how to help someone with bulimia is critical to their recovery as well as your relationship with the bulimic. Friends and family may initially feel powerless to supply bulimia help, but education and participation in the person’s treatment can show loved ones how they can help.