Arizona State University College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
Chicana and Chicano StudiesLatino Health Issues

What is bulimia nervosa?

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Bulimia nervosa is defined as an eating disorder where an individual engages

in regular episodes of binging - eating large quantities of food within a given

period of time, with the intent to purge (rid) the body of the extreme calorie

intake through induced vomiting, over exercising (6), fasting, or laxative

abuse.(5) The disorder commonly exists among young women (5), despite

their ethnic backgrounds (4), and affects those with low self esteem and a poor

body image.(6) In addition, bulimics often feel both guilty and ashamed of their

habit. The individual will more than likely feel very much alone with their

problem, isolating themselves from their friends and families in a rather

depressive state. (6) Moreover, the disorder in itself is usually triggered by

deeper, more personal issues.

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This site was created by Cecilia Ortiz in fulfillment of requirements for the course CSS 335: Latino Health Issues taught by Dr. Szkupinski Quiroga at Arizona State University, Spring 2004.