Anorexia and bulimia are both serious eating disorders, but understanding their key differences is crucial for awareness and support. The core distinction lies in how individuals manage their weight and their perception of their body.
Anorexia nervosa is characterized by a relentless pursuit of thinness, often involving severe calorie restriction, excessive exercise, and a distorted body image. Individuals with anorexia have an intense fear of gaining weight, even when underweight.
Bulimia nervosa, on the other hand, involves a cycle of binge eating (consuming large quantities of food in a short period) followed by compensatory behaviors like self-induced vomiting, excessive use of laxatives, or over-exercising to prevent weight gain. While individuals with bulimia may also be concerned about their weight, they are often at a normal weight or even overweight.
Both disorders have devastating physical and psychological consequences. Seeking professional help is essential for recovery.
