Gillian McKeith's Food Bible (126 page)

BULIMIA NERVOSA

Those suffering from bulimia generally have episodes of binge eating followed by purging that often involves vomiting or laxative abuse. Usually this is done in secret and bulimia can go on for years without anyone knowing. Often bulimics are obsessed with exercise and will engage in vigorous exercise to atone for the binge episodes. They may also try to starve themselves after a binge to make up for the excessive intake of calories. This is counterproductive, as it tends to lead to further binging, and so the cycle goes on.

A bulimic’s weight often remains the same, but there may be other signs and symptoms of the condition. These may include swollen salivary glands, erosion of tooth enamel, frequent or constant sore throats, ulcers, blood-sugar problems, erratic heartbeat, cessation of or disrupted menstrual cycle, hair loss, premature ageing, weakness, and low blood pressure. Mineral imbalances, rectal bleeding, and dehydration may also result from bulimia.

CAUSES

Usually there are psychological issues at the root of the bulimia. Bulimics often use food to divert attention from difficult emotional issues. Low self-esteem lies at the root of the problem for many. Many bulimics suffered abuse or neglect as children. For others, it may be a result of being or feeling rejected by a member of the opposite sex. Some bulimics are perfectionists and high achievers.

There may also be biochemical imbalances such as blood-sugar
fluctuations and hormonal or neurotransmitter imbalances that affect mood and behavior.

Action plan

Seek psychological help—you can ask your GP about what is available. Cognitive behavioral therapy works well for many.

EAT/DRINK

Protein. Good-quality protein is needed to keep blood-sugar levels stable. Include lentils, beans, nuts, seeds, fish, lean white meats, and eggs.

Vegetable juices—vomiting and laxative abuse both lead to electrolyte imbalances. Vegetable juices are rich in minerals that can correct this imbalance.

AVOID

Sugar, refined carbohydrates, junk foods, caffeine and alcohol, which can upset blood-sugar balance, are unsatisfying, and lead to cravings for more. You may experience withdrawal symptoms when you first cut these out, but it is worth persevering.

Wheat—especially in bread, cereals, and cakes that you crave or binge on. Bulimics often become intolerant to wheat because of eating it excessively. Endorphins are released when you eat something to which you are intolerant, leading to cravings for more.

SUPPLEMENTS

Supplement with acidophilus capsules. Purging and eating sugar and refined carbohydrates both disrupt the gut bacteria and encourage yeast and unhelpful bacteria to grow. Supplementing with some good bacteria can help to replenish the good guys and restore gut function.

Take a good-quality multivitamin/mineral complex. You are likely to be low in many nutrients. The vitamin supplement will help to restore levels and aid physical and biochemical recovery.

Take extra zinc.

EXTRA TIPS

Aim to eat small, regular meals and snacks throughout the day—this will keep blood-sugar levels balanced and will reduce cravings and the likelihood of binging.

See a homeopath. Homeopathy can go a long way to helping this condition.