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Hello i was wondering if you could tell me what changes i should expect in the recovery of bulimia. I've been bulimic for 10 years, since i stopped purging i have become ever so bloated and swollen. During bulimia i read that you mess up electrolytes and hormones, what happens to these when you start eating normally again??
Terry
That's a very good question that unfortunately I don't have much of an answer for.
I know the chipmunk cheeks is common in bulimic patients who stop purging. Your metabolism slows down when you aren't taking in (or keeping in) your food to comepensate for the nutrients. There will be period of waiting for your bodies metabolism to regulate and re-adjust to food. So you may get to a certain weight then lose a little once your body adjusts. Bloating and swelling is also very common.
Feel free to ask another expert this question if you would like to know more. Sorry I couldn't help further.
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Answers by Expert:
Melissa
Expertise
I battled anorexia and bulimia for 6 years. I am not a doctor, but I learned a lot about the mental, emotional, and physical aspects of having an eating disorder and how scary it is to feel like you are alone in your illness. You are not alone. I can answer questions based on my experience with anything relating to anorexia and/or bulimia. I can provide information on treatment options, some specific treatment centers, resources that may help you find a treatment center, and my opinion on all of the above. I was a patient at a few outpatient and inpatient programs so I am happy to answer questions about those experiences. I am not affiliated with any of the resources I may provide. It’s strictly my opinion based on my experiences. I can NOT answer medical questions. I will NOT answer questions on how to become anorexic or bulimic or how to lose weight in an unhealthy matter.
Experience
I have recovered from a six year struggle with both anorexia and bulimia. I hope my experiences and the time I spent in and out of treatment will encourage others to never give up. I never thought I would or could recover because I couldn’t picture myself ever having a normal relationship with food. Since then, I have grown and learned that I can overcome what I once thought was impossible. Hold on to the idea that recovery is attainable!
Education/Credentials
I am attending college for an unrelated degree.
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