5 Risk Areas To Developing A Bulimia Eating Disorder

By: Sandra Kim Leong Click author's name for more of his/her articles

Bulimia eating disorder cases are increasing every day. There are many reasons why this is the case. You should be aware about this rising phenomena; whether for yourself or for your growing children, so that you can find preventative measures. Do know that a bulimia eating disorder, if left untreated, can cause death. Getting to know what are the risk areas can help greatly in preventing one from developing.

1. Poor self image. To begin with, a sufferer usually has a poor self-image and lack self esteem. Depression is often experienced. The sufferer finds solace in food and overeats. Overwhelmed with guilt and shame from eating too much, he or she then undertakes compensatory actions. Compensatory actions include induced vomiting or taking laxatives. However, these actions can have a harmful effect on the body.

2. Age. Most sufferers develop a bulimia eating disorder during adolescence. It is found that the age group, somewhere between 10 and 25, is at the greatest risk to developing bulimia. Peer pressure can have a major part to play.

3. Media Influences. A constant exposure to media advertisements and fashion magazines can greatly influence your habits, preferences and lifestyle choices. It is often the case that the media presents unachievable images. You start having distorted body image perceptions and wanting to look like the models featured.

4. Stress. Stress can can cause you to lose sight of yourself. Stress can come from traumatic childhood experiences that leave you feeling unworthy and unwanted. This may cause you to develop a bulimia eating disorder as you use food to help you forget your stress. Also, if you are an overachiever or perfectionist you may resort to bulimia when things do not go your your way.

5. Performance related activity. If you are engaged in an activity that relies heavily upon outward appearance, you are also more susceptible. These performance related activities include gymnastics, dancing and modeling. The added pressures of these activities may make you feel that you want to look good for your sport or job.

You should know that eating disorders can result in death if you do not take early actions in prevention. In fact, you may actually be shocked to learn that one in seven college-aged females struggle with bulimia.

Becoming aware about your increased risks to developing a bulimia eating disorder is important in helping you take the necessary precautions. You can also help prevent your children from developing a bulimia eating disorder by showering them with plenty of love and encouring open communication.

Article Source: ABC Article Directory

About The Author: Sandra Kim Leong hopes to create public awareness about eating disorders through her writing and research. For more eating disorder news and research, please visit www.eating-disorder-research.com.