Purging, in the context of eating disorders, refers to self-induced behaviors that either compensate for binge-eating or to alleviate feelings of guilt or shame after eating.

Purging behaviors are characteristics of two eating disorders, bulimia nervosa and purging disorder. This behavior can have devastating consequences on both physical and mental health. However, with the right support and treatment, recovery is possible.

What is purging?

Purging behaviors can take various forms, including self-induced vomiting, misuse of laxatives, diuretics, or enemas, and excessive exercise. Those with bulimia often feel a loss of control during binge eating episodes and resort to purging as a means of regaining control or managing their weight. Someone with purging disorder doesn’t engage in binge-eating, but still feels compelled to purge. Purging behaviors can also be a coping mechanism to reduce the negative feelings surrounding food intake, such as anxiety, guilt, shame, or low self-esteem. Symptoms of someone struggling with purging include:

an obsessive fear of gaining weight
low self-esteem surrounding body image
excessive exercising
misusing medications like diuretics or laxatives
fasting

What are the effects of purging?

Purging can have severe repercussions on both physical and mental health. Physically, frequent purging can lead to severe weight loss, electrolyte imbalances, dehydration, gastrointestinal problems, dental issues, hand scarring, and damage to the esophagus and throat. The cycle of bingeing and purging can perpetuate a dysfunctional relationship with food, worsening feelings of shame, guilt, and self-loathing.

How to overcome purging

Acknowledge the issue

The first step in coping with any disordered eating behavior is recognizing the problem. Once the purging behaviors have been acknowledged, the treatment can begin. This will also lessen the shame of hiding these behaviors.

Seek professional help

To develop a personalized treatment plan, consult with a qualified therapist who specializes in eating disorders. Several therapeutic approaches are proven in treating eating disorders, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT). In therapy sessions, a person struggling with purging will explore the root causes of their eating disorder, learn coping skills to manage their negative emotions, and challenge their distorted beliefs about food and body image.

Nutrition counseling

Working with a registered dietitian can provide valuable guidance on establishing a balanced and sustainable approach to eating. A dietitian can help develop appropriate meal plans depending on where someone is in their treatment. They’ll also work on normalizing healthy eating patterns and encourage a healthier relationship with food.

Build a support network

Support groups and group therapy are a great way of developing a sense of community, validation, and encouragement from others who are going through similar struggles. Sharing experiences, insights, and coping strategies with peers in a supportive environment can be a huge comfort during a difficult healing process.

Develop healthy coping mechanisms

To reduce the reliance on purging behaviors, someone struggling with an eating disorder needs to learn alternative ways of coping with stress, anxiety, and other negative emotions Engaging in activities such as journaling, art therapy, exercise, spending time in nature, or connecting with loved ones will provide healthier outlets for managing stress.

Practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques

Incorporating mindfulness-based practices such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation can help develop emotional regulation skills. Emotional regulation is an important step in recovering from purging, because managing negative thoughts and feelings will no longer contribute to the compulsion to purge.

Getting help

Eating disorders are one of the most serious mental health issues, and if left untreated, can lead to severe illness and death. If you or someone you love is struggling with an eating disorder and purging behaviors, talk to a doctor today. Depending on the severity of the eating disorder, you may need medical treatment before beginning on your mental healing journey.

To find out more about how eating disorder therapy can help those struggling with purging behaviors, please reach out to us.

Purging In Eating Disorders, What Is It and Can You Overcome It?