Source: http://sports.yahoo.com
Bulimia is a very serious eating disorder that can have long-lasting and serious consequences for those who suffer from it. With approximately 1% of the population suffering from bulimia, it isn't any wonder that that eating disorders, such as bulimia, has made their way into the world of cheerleading. Unfortunately, it seems that cheerleaders may be at a greater risk of developing eating disorders due to increased levels of pressure to maintain certain weight standards.
What is bulimia?
Bulimia is commonly used as shorthand for the medical condition known as bulimia nervosa. Unlike anorexia, bulimia is characterized by the consumption of a large quantity of food during a short period of time (also known as binging) followed by efforts to remove the food from the body though means such as induced vomiting (also known as purging) and the over-use of laxatives. Bulimics most commonly induce vomiting and may exercise excessively.
What are the symptoms of bulimia?
Bulimia can be much more difficult to spot than other disorders such as anorexia because many bulimics present at an average and even above-average weight. Cheerleaders suffering from bulimia may be expressing extreme amounts of stress of anxiety regarding their weight. Bulimics may talk about weight loss, diets and exercise routines to an excessive degree. They are likely dissatisfied with their body size and shape. A bulimic cheerleader may demonstrate extremely secretive behaviors following activities that involve food, such as sneaking off alone following eating. A cheerleader with bulimia may also be abusing diet pills and laxatives. Bulimic cheerleaders are likely to suffer from dizziness and light-headedness as well.
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If you suspect that a friend, teammate, or loved one is struggling with bulimia, what might be some helpful ways to approach them and convey your concern?
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