Growth & Development / Question
Published: September 30, 2002
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I'm recovering from bulimia and have gained a lot of weight since. But I weigh more than I did before I started throwing up. Can bulimia mess up my metabolism? Help.
Signed: Bulimia And Your Metabolism
Dear Bulimia And Your Metabolism,
Congratulations! TeenHealthFX knows that it is not an easy road to recovery and commends you for making it through. Bulimia, like other eating disorders, affects the body in many ways. As you recover your body is trying to return to its normal rhythm and functions. You will experience an increase in weight gain because your body is taking in foods and using them to build and repair itself. This weight gain may seem like a lot but is part of your body's healing process.
Bulimia does affect your metabolism. Your metabolism (the rate at which you burn calories from the foods you eat) has been altered during your bout with bulimia. Bulimia slows your metabolism because you are lowering your calorie intake and in turn your metabolic rate. The less food you give yourself the slower your metabolism goes. Over time your body becomes accustomed to little portions and less food so that your metabolism is constantly working at a slower pace. Many people lower their calorie intake in hopes of losing weight only to find that they cannot. When you lower your calorie intake your body believes it is starving and will conserve fat, therefore slowing your metabolism.
Your metabolism will return to its normal pace once you are eating healthy and exercising regularly. Like all other things your metabolism needs time to heal and return to its normal functioning pace.
If you have concerns speak to your doctor. He or she can explain the changes your body is going through and help you through them.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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