Bulimia & Anemia 

What Is Anemia?

Anemia is a condition that impacts red blood cells, which can ultimately impact the amount of oxygen the body gets.

One of the blood’s primary purposes is to carry oxygen from the lungs to everywhere else in the body. To do this, the blood requires a type of protein called hemoglobin.

Building this protein is a very iron-intensive process, so a lack of the mineral can lead to less hemoglobin in the blood. Anemia occurs when levels are low enough that even healthy red blood cells can no longer successfully transport oxygen. 

A lack of iron can also lead to low red blood cell counts, which has also been noted in many people who struggle with bulimia nervosa.² That’s one reason why bulimia and anemia can be so dangerous when occurring at the same time.

Anemia is diagnosed through a blood test and a physical exam. Treatment depends on the severity, physical symptoms, and type of anemia that is present.

How Can an Eating Disorder Lead to Anemia?

Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by cycles of binge eating and purging. During purging phases, someone may exhibit behaviors like self-induced vomiting or food and fluid restriction, both of which can cause the body to become deficient in many essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals.

Iron Deficiency Anemia and Binge Eating and Purging

Iron is a mineral found in green leafy vegetables and red meat. When these types of foods are limited, or purging takes place before they can be absorbed, it can lead to a shortage of the mineral in the blood. 

The process of binging and purging that characterizes bulimia nervosa can also impact the endocrine system of the body, which creates and distributes hormones. Hormone regulation is a delicate and intricate process, and the disruption of this system can lead to many complications in the body, including trouble producing hemoglobin.

Co-occurring Circulatory and Cardiovascular Disease

Aside from anemia, bulimia nervosa has been linked to several other circulatory and cardiovascular complications.

Purging—and, particularly, self-induced vomiting—depletes the body of important electrolytes. These minerals essentially keep the electronics in the body running smoothly. When their levels are disrupted, it can lead to issues with the electric signals that keep the heart beating at a steady pace. In severe cases, the issue can also contribute to major cardiovascular events, including heart failure.⁵

Treating Bulimia Nervosa

Due to their complex nature, eating disorders often require comprehensive, specialized treatment plans. This type of care should address the physical complications and psychological conditions contributing to or caused by the eating disorder. 

Treatment programs for bulimia nervosa include a multidisciplinary team approach with trained professionals who work together to treat all aspects of the eating disorder. In a comprehensive program, the following will be addressed:

• Biological issues
• Cultural forces
• Psychological needs
• Medical complications
• Interpersonal issues

A typical eating disorder program will be individualized and tailored to address specific needs and co-occurring medical and/or mental disorders.

How to Find Bulimia Nervosa Treatment

Bulimia is a serious mental health condition that can lead to significant medical issues (e.g., nutritional deficiencies) and even death if left untreated. If you’re concerned that you or someone you love may have an eating disorder, it is critical to get professional help from a provider who specializes in eating disorders as soon as possible. 

Asking your primary care provider or a mental health professional for a referral is a good place to start. The most important thing to remember is that help is out there.