Individuals with bulimia nervosa may engage in episodes of binge eating, followed by behaviors to compensate for the excessive caloric intake, such as purging (e.g., vomiting, using laxatives or diuretics), fasting, or excessive exercise.
On the other hand, individuals with anorexia nervosa restrict their food intake significantly, leading to dangerously low body weight. They may also engage in other behaviors to control their weight, such as excessive exercise or using diet pills.
Both of these disorders are complex mental health conditions that often involve secrecy and shame. People with eating disorders may hide their behaviors from others, which can make it challenging for friends and family to recognize the signs and offer support.
Some of the secretive behaviors that individuals with eating disorders might engage in include:
Hiding Food: Those with bulimia may secretly hoard large amounts of food, which they will later binge on during their private eating episodes.
Eating in Isolation: People with eating disorders may avoid eating in front of others to conceal their disordered eating habits.
Excessive Exercise: Both bulimics and anorexics may secretly engage in intense and excessive exercise to burn calories and maintain control over their weight.
Wearing Loose Clothing: Wearing loose clothing can hide drastic weight loss and changes in body shape.
Using Bathroom Immediately After Meals: Bulimics may use the bathroom immediately after eating to engage in purging behaviors without others knowing.
Obsessive Calorie Counting: Anorexics may meticulously count calories and keep detailed food diaries in private.
Body Checking: Individuals with eating disorders may frequently check their bodies in private to assess their perceived flaws.
It's important to remember that eating disorders are serious medical conditions that require professional help. If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, encourage seeking support from a medical or mental health professional who specializes in eating disorders. Recovery is possible with the right treatment and support.