Expert: Autumn - 11/5/2006

Question
After recovering from bulimia, I lost weight. This concerns me because I have been eating a lot because I want to grow taller (am still the shortest in my family at 15). I feel tired a lot, and just want to get on with being healthy. I am underweight and I don't want to get fat obviously, but I was hoping to give my body the chance to grow and develop the much needed muscles.

Answer
Hello Grace! I'm not sure what your question was, but I'll try to say what I can about the subject matter of your question. As I'm sure you know, bulimia can have a lot of effects on your body, and there's really no way to find out exactly how it's affected you as an individual unless you see a doctor, which I advise you to do, because they can help you very much. Also, because bulimia is a bit more tricky than anorexia, did you gain weight when you were bulimic, or did it stay the same, or did you lose? Because all of these things could occur with bulimia, and that could be a factor in the weight loss. If it's more weight loss, that's a concern. I definately think you should go to the doctor as well as a nutritionist to find out what you can do to truly be healthy. After such a horrific disease, your body needs a lot of time to strengthen and recover, so don't worry. As long as you're doing your best to be healthy, you're doing enough. Also, I suffered the same concern you are facing after I recovered. When will I get taller?! The thing is, it shouldn't be a concern. Yes it's possible you could have stunted your growth, but it's also possible you could grow. If you are having your periods than I'd say it's a good chance you probably aren't going to get much taller if you grow at all, but I'm not an expert. Thing is, regardless of whether you grow taller or not, it's OKAY if you don't. You are still beautiful. You are still so much more than a number, both in weight and height. So realize that and learn that there are a lot greater things about you than being taller. You have a lot more important things to look forward to, and just because you're not as tall as you wish to be, that doesn't mean you're less than the great,beautiful person that you ARE. So just love yourself and be happy with yourself NOW. Not if you lose weight or grow taller or have pretty hair/ etc./etc. Be happy with you as YOU are. Because you are great!
If you have any more questions, don't hesitate to ask. I hope I've helped you. Have a beautiful day!