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According to a study report by the International Journal of Eating Disorders, women are found to be more susceptible to bulimia. The study reveals some of the underlying factors that were observed in cases of women with bulimia. The factors include self-doubt, poor academic performances, poor parental relationships, marital conflicts, sexual conflicts, etc.

Bulimia is a condition in which the patient may consume more than required amount of food at a time, and then purge the food by self-induced vomiting, misuse of laxatives, or by over-exercising.


While there are symptoms of the disorder, some bulimic patients may also have normal weight, and thus it may become difficult to recognize the condition unless self-confessed. The various indications of bulimia include the following:

• High affinity for the foods rich in carbohydrates
• Overeating
• Varying body weight
• Abdominal pain and gas
• Missing menstrual periods in women
• Sore throat
• Damage to the teeth enamel

According to a research report published by the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry, low self-esteem, being overweight since childhood or in the adolescent stage, and regular life problems have more of an impact on the occurrence of bulimia in women. The study also found that women under 25 years of age are at more risk of developing bulimia nervosa.

How to use yoga to deal with bulimia?

Yoga may help bulimic patients manage their symptoms and enhance their recovery process. Most of the cases of bulimia are associated with the psychological factors. Yoga may help in reducing the instances of negative thoughts and self doubt. Yoga also acts as a good coordinating tool between the mind and the body, and helps in managing the disorganized eating habits. Yoga asanas have been known to increase the GABA levels of the brain, which, in turn, lowers the level of depression and anxiety experienced by a patient.

Some tips for sufferers

Some of the tips that the bulimic patients need to consider are

• Maintaining the recommended exercise regimen.
• Indulge in the things that you love to do such as taking a vacation, playing with kids, etc.
• Set practical goals for yourself.
• Accept yourself as you are and take pride in it.

Warnings to patients

Before performing any form of yoga exercises, it is very necessary to consult with your physician and yoga instructor. Without prior supervision, you must not attempt any type of yoga activities which you are not well aware of.

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