WHAT ARE COMPENSATORY BEHAVIOURS?

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Compensatory behaviours are used as a way of trying to control weight after binge eating episodes. They include:

VomitingMisusing Laxatives or DiureticsFastingExcessive ExerciseUse of any drugs, illicit, prescription and/or 'over the counter' inappropriately for weight control (Inappropriate use refers to use that is not indicated and for which the drug has not been prescribed).

A person with Bulimia can become lost in a dangerous cycle of eating out of control and attempts to compensate which can lead to feelings of shame, guilt and disgust. These behaviours can become more compulsive and uncontrollable over time, and lead to an obsession with food, thoughts about eating (or not eating), weight loss, dieting and body image.

These behaviours are often concealed and people with Bulimia can go to great lengths to keep their eating and exercise habits secret. As a result, Bulimia can often go undetected for a long period of time.

Many people with Bulimia experience weight fluctuations and do not lose weight; they can remain in the normal weight range, be slightly underweight, or may even gain weight.

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