Complementary and Alternative Treatments for Bulimia

Nutrition and Supplementation

Eliminate junk foods and white flour products from your diet, as well as sugar in any form. You may experience anxiety, depression, fatigue, headache, insomnia, and/or irritability for a while after you eliminate sugar.

Many people with eating disorders suffer from a deficiency of zinc, which could actually be a cause of the disease. Heart functioning eventually becomes impaired because a body lacking zinc will start scrounging for it within the body, actually consuming it from muscle tissue and the heart. Because zinc plays such a vital role in appetite regulation, it is essential to supplement the diet with it, in liquid form, if possible. Many bulimics report a suppression, even elimination, of the desire to binge and purge once their zinc levels are supplemented.

Sea vegetables, such as kelp, nori, and dulse, provide'important minerals as well as vitamin B12 and betacarotene. Other foods rich in minerals include alfalfa, spirulina, blue-green algae, and barley greens. Water consumption is essential to healing this disease; the malnutrition that often results from bulimia can inhibit the ability to recognize the body's need for liquid and lead to a state of dehydration. Protein supplement drinks also may be recommended to boost protein and calorie intake.

Consult with a health care provider for an individualized rehabilitation program, and follow the daily suggestions below for a healthy start:

Most Important

zinc (50 mg, not to exceed a total of 100 mg from all supplements)

copper (3 mg)-needed to balance zinc

multivitamin and mineral complex (as directed by healthcare provider)

vitamin A (15,000 IU; do not exceed 8000 IU daily if you are pregnant)

mixed carotenoid formula (25,000 IU)

potassium (99 mg) selenium (200 mcg)

Also Recommended

a prodophilus formula (as directed on label) replaces friendly bacteria and protects the liver

calcium (1500 mg at bedtime)-has a calming effect

magnesium (750 mg)-relaxes smooth muscle

free-form amino acid complex (as directed on label)-counteracts protein deficiency, a serious problem in bulimia

vitamin B12 (1 CC 3 times weekly or as prescribed by healthcare provider)-aids digestion of food and the assimilation of all nutrients; injections are best

vitamin C (5000 mg in divided doses)-necessary for all cellular and glandular functions

(Consult your healthcare provider regarding the duration of treatment.)

Homeopathy

Bulimia may respond to homeopathic treatment. However, the selection of a remedymore than one is available depends on your symptoms and the stage of the condition. Don't try treating this disorder yourself. See a homeopathic professional.

Traditional Chinese Medicine

Acupuncture Bulimia can be helped with acupuncture treatments that focus on restoring the body's energy levels, reducing stress, and promoting feelings of relaxation and well-being. Various auricular and body points are targeted, depending on the specific needs of the client.

Chinese Herbal Therapy Because bulimia wreaks havoc on the immune system, various herbs may be prescribed to bring the body back into balance, including angelica, astragalus, and ginseng.

Premade immunity-boosting tonics can be found in most health food stores. Popular formulas include Saussurea and Amomum Stomach Nurturing Pills and Vitality Combination.

In addition, an herbalist may prescribe formulas to calm and strengthen the digestive system, which is weakened by repeated 'bingeing and purging. Common preparations for this purpose include Ginseng Stomachic Pills and Internal Formula.

Additional herbs may be used to combat the sore throat, fatigue, menstrual problems, skin conditions, and dehydration that can accompany bulimia.

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