People who suffer from bulimia are attempting to avoid weight gain by vomiting, use of laxatives, over exercise and/or periods of fasting. Commonly they restrict food intake during the day and binge in the evening by consuming large quantities of food until they are physically uncomfortable.

They induce vomiting to rid themselves of the food and the feeling of being stuffed. They experience lethargy, fatigue, headache, frequent sore throats, swollen cheeks, erosion of dental enamel, irregular heart rate, abdominal pain and bloating, and heart burn.