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Anorexia vs. Bulimia

Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa are the two most common eating disorders in the world. They are often confused with one another because they share many of the same qualities; however, it is imperative to understand each disorder has its own distinct behavior that makes it quite different from the other. Before I compare and contrast the similarities and differences of the two, lets first take a look at what Anorexia and Bulimia Nervosa are. Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by binge eating and purging, or consuming a large amount of food in a short amount of time followed by an attempt to rid oneself of the food consumed (purging), typically by vomiting, taking a laxative, diuretic, or stimulant, and/or excessive exercise. Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by immoderate food restriction and irrational fear of gaining weight, as well as a distorted body self-perception. It typically involves excessive weight loss and usually occurs more in females than in males. Because of the fear of gaining weight, people with this disorder restrict the amount of food they consume.

Bulimia nervosa and anorexia nervosa are very similar in many ways. Both eating disorders typically begin after a period of dieting by people who are fearful of becoming obese; driven to become thin; preoccupied with food, weight, and appearance; and struggling with feelings of depression, anxiety, and the need to be perfect. Substance abuse may accompany these eating disorders, perhaps beginning with the excessive use of diet pills. People with either disorder believe that they weigh too much and look too heavy regardless of their actual weight or appearance.
Bulimia nervosa and anorexia nervosa also differ in many ways; although people with either eating disorder worry about the opinions of others, those with bulimia nervosa tend to be more concerned about pleasing others, being attractive to others, and

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