By: Express News ServiceUpdated: November 18, 2025 04:58 PM IST 4 min readActor Fatima Sana Shaikh recently opened up about her experience of battling bulimia. (Credit: Facebook)Actor Fatima Sana Shaikh recently opened up about her experience of battling bulimia — a serious eating disorder marked by episodes of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviours such as fasting or excessive exercise. While this is often accompanied by body image issues and depression,Now, new studies are focussing on the role of gut bacteria in regulating appetite, mood and body mass in people with bulimia. Now a genetic link is also being studied. “So, treatment of bulimia needs a multidisciplinary approach. We need to know the red flags so that we can help people affected by it avail therapies,” says Dr Vishal Khurana, director gastroenterology, Metro Hospital, Faridabad.What is Bulimia Nervosa?Bulimia nervosa is a serious eating disorder that affects millions of people worldwide, often going unnoticed until it causes significant health problems. This condition is marked by cycles of binge eating — consuming large amounts of food in a short time — followed by purging behaviour such as vomitting, misuse of laxatives, fasting, or excessive exercise, all in an attempt to avoid weight gain.What happens in bulimia?People with bulimia often feel a loss of control during binge episodes and may eat in secret due to shame or guilt. After binging, they try to compensate through unhealthy means, leading to a dangerous cycle that can severely impact both physical and mental health. Bulimia is not just about food; it is deeply connected to body image, self-esteem, and emotional distress.How to spot signs and symptomsWatch out for repeated episodes of eating unusually large amounts of food, or feeling unable to stop eating or control what is eaten. This is usually followed by purging behaviours such as vomiting, using laxatives, or excessive exercise after eating.Patients are extremely concerned about body shape and weight, take frequent trips to the bathroom after meals. Physically, they may have a swelling in the cheeks or jaw, damaged teeth, and calluses on the knuckles from self-induced vomiting.What are triggers?Bulimia is caused by a mix of genetic, psychological, and social factors. Dieting, stress, emotional trauma, and societal pressures about appearance can increase the risk. People who have experienced weight-related bullying or have a history of mental health issues like depression or anxiety are also more vulnerable.Story continues below this adWhat if the condition is left untreated?Untreated bulimia can lead to severe health complications, including electrolyte imbalances that may cause heart problems, damage to teeth and gums, gastrointestinal issues, such as acid reflux and constipation as well as mental health problems, including depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts.Recovery from bulimia is possible with professional support. Treatment typically involves therapy, nutritional counselling, and sometimes medication. Early intervention is key to preventing long-term health issues. In July 2024, a randomised clinical trial, published in JAMA Network Open, had found that a web-based cognitive behavioural self-help intervention was effective in significantly reducing binge-eating episodes and overall eating disorder symptoms in adults. These digital tools are seen as a way to complement traditional therapies and reach more patients, as many of them never seek professional help.An emerging field of study is the role of gut bacteria in regulating appetite, mood, and body mass in people with bulimia. Dysregulation of gut microbiota and related immune responses are being investigated as potential causes and treatment targets. Studies have confirmed a strong genetic component, with an individual being almost 10 times more likely to develop BN if they have a relative with the disorder. Research is also identifying genetic correlations with other conditions like ADHD and obesity.© The Indian Express Pvt LtdTags:Fatima Sana Sheikhhealth