Introduction
Just as recent as June this year, one's of Austin's newspapers (News 8 Austin) covered a story on a new kind of eating disorder called "orthorexia", which is the absolute maniacal necessity to eat only healthy food.
Yes, this is a health and fitness blog, and we all draw inspiration to lead healthier lives from the "words of wisdom" at this site and perhaps, put it into practice… but where does one draw the line, and live a little…
One reason why this article resonated with me so much is because it reminded me that my old man fits into this category (a blue-blooded hypochondriac, if you will) and it drives me absolutely nuts.
However, the only consolation that my family members have is at least he doesn't demonstrate bulimia symptoms, and we laugh about it most of the times much to his annoyance. He's too clean to make a mess of anything…
In any case, this eating disorder (bulimia nervosa) among others have been (rather unfairly) shot down in the press, thanks to these pretentious supermodels and beauty queens who constantly rave and rant about their weight in magazines and television way too much… er… which is why women who aspire to be like "them" aren't taken too seriously either when they go on about it too! And in some cases, do nothing about it… er… backseat driving, you say!
Eating Disorders & Bulimia
However, after reading this News 8 Austin article on orthorexia, I did feel the need to empathize (not sympathize or judge like I used to, mind you) as I learned that most of these eating disorders are "affective" (based on one's feelings or emotions) in nature, and it could be one of the reasons why women become obese and overweight, and this robs them of their self esteem almost surely.
For those of you who don't know what bulimia is, it is the desire to binge (mostly on food) and then follow it up with vomiting (purge) with or without the use of laxatives and so on and so forth.
Perhaps the next question that needs to be answered is whether or not one can receive bulimia help from medical professionals, and the answer to which is simply: Yes, of course.
Where to obtain Bulimia Help?
Last year, in hearing one of George Carlin's HBO Specials I laughed at a "disorder" such as this one until I began to focus on "trimming my waistline" (that most women are obsessed about) through exercise, and I realized how hard it is to see progress in that area.
And while there are so many programs over the Internet that promise quick results but do very little, getting a slim physique takes a long time and requires one to take care of themselves constantly.
But I digress…
Perhaps the first step to bulimia treatment is awareness, and one of the most reliable places to find information can be found at this link.
If you do think that you are exhibiting symptoms of bulimia (that cannot be taken lightly), then in consulting a physician, you will not only undergo cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) but will have to follow nutritional guidelines as suggested by the doctor. In extreme cases, patients are given antidepressants as well.
In Closing
While I will continue to poke fun at these pretty women who are in shape but continue to obsess, I realize (on a serious note!) that women who are obese or overweight and struggle with bulimia (among other eating disorders) need to be treated with care and sensitivity through CBT counseling, by monitoring their nutritional intake and by their family and friends as well. That is the key, and it can be done…
