Bulimia is an eating disorder that affects thousands of people each year in Western cultures. The characteristics of the disorder have been described since 1980 by the American Psychiatric Association and include an unrealistic opinion of body image, strict dieting protocols, binge eating (or pigging out) about 2 times a week followed by inappropriate ways of preventing weight gain such as use of laxatives, self-induced vomiting or excessive exercise.
Recently, research has indicated a link between genetic or hereditary factors and emotional and psychological factors that impact the development of this eating disorder. In another study, researchers have found a link between the amino acid tryptophan and the symptoms of bulimia. Tryptophan is involved in the manufacture of serotonin in the brain. This chemical is a mood and appetite regulating chemical.
The chemical link found to serotonin may help to explain the high percentage of people who have an eating disorder and who also suffer from anxiety or panic attacks. These percentages range between 20% and 95% depending upon the study.
In another study from the University of Pittsburgh, researchers reported they found an abnormal level of serotonin related chemical in the spinal fluid of women who were actively bulimic. (1)
The key to how to cure bulimia is found in psychological, emotional and chemical factors. Based on the research revealed above it is evident that through the care of a psychiatrist, who can evaluate the need for and prescribe the use of medication, people who suffer from bulimia have a greater chance for a full recovery.
Curing bulimia also includes the integration of psychological and emotional support as well as behavioral modification programs designed by psychologists.
References:
(1) Archives of General Psychiatry: Low Serotonin and Dopamine Metabolite Concentrations in Cerebrospinal Fluid from Bulimic Patients with frequent Binge Episodes
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1372494
Resources:
HelpGuide: Bulimia Nervosa
http://www.helpguide.org/mental/bulimia_signs_symptoms_causes_treatment.htm
Bulimia Help: How to Cure Bulimia
http://www.bulimiahelp.org/articles/how-cure-bulimia
PsychCentral: Treatment for Bulimia
http://psychcentral.com/lib/treatment-for-bulimia/00099
NHS: Treating Bulimia
http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Bulimia/Pages/Treatment.aspx
PRLog: Tips on How to Cure Bulimia Naturally
MayoClnic: Bulimia Nervosa
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/bulimia/DS00607/DSECTION=treatments-and-drugs
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