Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder and mental health condition that is characterised by binge-eating and purging.
Binge eating is a period of uncontrolled eating when a large amount of food is eaten in a short period of time. It is often followed by the person feeling shame over their lack of control. Purging is when the person with bulimia induces vomiting, uses laxatives, goes through a period of starvation, or participates in excessive exercise to rid their body of calories consumed during their binge eating period.
People with bulimia often have abnormal attitudes toward food and their body image.
Bulimia nervosa is more common than anorexia nervosa. However, people with bulimia often do not seek help, as they may be embarrassed or ashamed of their eating problems.