Bulimia

Bulimia is an eating disorder marked by consumption of large 
quantities of food at one sitting, followed by induced vomiting of 
taking laxatives to get rid of the body food.  It usually affects young 
women, especially adolescents, but is observed in older women and men 
also.  People with bulimia are often obsessed with food and self 
gratification, and the disorder frequently accompanies Anorexia Nervosa. 
 Such behavior stems from psychological difficulties involving a 
compulsive desire for perfection, poor self-image, and stressful familt 
relationships; depression is also common.  Research in the late 1980's 
says that bulimia itselg, however, may be caused by impaired secretion 
of a hormone, chlecystokinin (CCK), that normally induces a feeling of 
fullness after a meal.
	Severe medical problems can result from bulimia nervosa, such as 
nutritional deficiencies and hormonal changes leading to menstrual 
irregularities.  Where bulimia has been present for a long time, 
metabolic imbalance and heart disprders can occur.  Treatment is most 
successful when medical therapy and psychotherapy are combined.