Latest news with #bulimia
South China Morning Post
09-07-2025
- Health
- South China Morning Post
Eating disorders almost destroyed 28kg Hongkonger. How she beat them and now thrives
Hongkonger Miley Millamena is in a good place. The 24-year-old recently landed a dream job as a bartender at Penicillin, in Hong Kong's Central neighbourhood, and she gets to unleash her creativity as a freelance make-up artist and part-time model. Advertisement But life was not always so rosy for Millamena, who struggled with depression and eating disorders in her teenage years. She hit rock bottom in 2019 when, aged 18 and weighing just 28kg (62lb), she held a knife to her throat in the kitchen of her parents' home. Her father intervened, and Millamena was hospitalised for a year after her suicide attempt. Today, at a coffee shop in Central, Millamena can talk candidly about her battle with anorexia nervosa – a condition that causes people to obsess about their weight and food – and bulimia , which is characterised by binge eating followed by self-induced vomiting or fasting to prevent weight gain. Millamena pictured in 2018. In her teenage years, she struggled with depression and eating disorders. Photo: courtesy of Miley Millamena By sharing her story, Millamena hopes to destigmatise eating disorders and raise awareness about their grave impact. Advertisement She says they are not taken seriously in Hong Kong, and the fact that the city lacks official statistics on eating disorders strengthens her claim.
The Sun
07-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
Heartbroken Jack Fincham reveals cruel ‘loved one' branded him ‘a fat 33 year old loser' as he makes boxing comeback
JACK Fincham has revealed a cruel 'loved one' once branded him a 'fat 33-year-old loser' as he makes his boxing career comeback. Love Island legend Jack, 34, has battled a number of crippling personal issues in recent years, having opened up about living with bulimia for two decades as well as his addictions to drugs, alcohol and gambling. 5 5 5 Despite the hurdles, he's been working hard to relaunch his boxing career and recently revealed he'd signed a new contract with a sports management company. Now Jack has shared the heartbreaking reason behind his determination to turn his life around. Writing on Instagram, he said: 'I got called a fat 33 year old loser, a s*** boxer and everybody knows I'm s***. 'Imagine that from a 'loved one'. Only makes me have more heart and determination. 'I'll never stop training as hard as I can and I will reach my goal of southern area champion in professional boxing.' Jack added: 'Hurt my feelings but [I'm] using that as fuel. The backing I have, I can't lose now. My trainers believe in me so I believe in myself. Sticks and stones.' Opening up about his long battle with bulimia recently, Jack told how he'd go days without eating and, at one point, weighed just over eight stone. Speaking exclusively to The Sun, he said: 'I have been a bulimic for 19 years, bingeing on food and then being sick. 'There have been days when I have ordered a McDonald's breakfast on Uber Eats, then gone to the Co-op and bought 12 bags of salt- and-vinegar McCoy's crisps, then had bags and bags of fizzy belt sweets. 'I have had two large Domino's pizzas with all the sides. It makes me feel ashamed. "There have been so many times that I have gone to the garage and got the same thing — a Ginsters Cornish pasty, one of their peppered steak slices, a sausage roll, bags of sweets and more McCoy's. 'I'd eat it all, then go to the downstairs toilet at my mum's — because nobody could hear me, as it was in the hall, next to the front door. I know it's gross, but for years I didn't actually think I had a problem.' He added: "I'd go three days with hardly any food and was so starving, my mum asked my boxing club if I could eat. 'They told her I could have a jacket potato with beans. I weighed just 52kg." Jack won Love Island in 2018 with ex-girlfriend Dani Dyer. The couple split just nine months later. Since then Jack has been in an on/off relationship with former Towie star Chloe Brockett, with him confirming last month they'd split for the eighth time. 5
The Sun
06-07-2025
- Sport
- The Sun
I silently battled bulimia and anxiety at height of my career – but arrogance cost me Olympic gold, says Colin Jackson
HE is a double world champion athlete whose records couldn't be broken for years. But off the athletics track, Welsh hurdler Colin Jackson, 58, faced a far greater battle than he ever did in a race. 4 4 On the outside, Colin's famously big smile exuded happiness and contentment, yet inside he was in turmoil, regularly crying and starving himself as he silently suffered with bulimia. "I wasn't in a good place because I spent all my days comparing myself with other people," Colin says in an exclusive interview with The Sun. "Thinking I don't look like them and the only way I can get like that is by literally starving my body by trying to be extra lean." At his lowest point Colin was consuming less than 1,000 calories a day while training at full pelt, and admits he has no idea how he as able to maintain such high standards on the track. Among his achievements as an elite sportsman are 13 championship golds, nine silvers and a bronze. He went unbeaten in 44 races between 1993 and 1995, and two of his records seemed insurmountable for a time. The 12.91s he clocked at the 1993 World Championships wasn't bettered for 13 years, while his 60m indoor record of 7.30 seconds, set in 1994, stood for 27 years. Colin continues: "So I had all this going on in my brain whilst I was trying to compete. So as I was trying to take on the best athletes in the world, I was battling with myself as well. And it's such a hidden thing in a way. "I wish I could have been more vocal at that time. It would have helped me immensely and it would have no doubt improved my performance. "I know people will go to me, 'well, you were a world record holder. What else did you want? You're the best of the best'. "Yeah, I was best of the best what you saw, but I wasn't the best version of me for myself. And that is what we're kind of striving to do, you know, and striving to be." Though the eating disorder no doubt had a detrimental effect on his athletic abilities, Colin insists it isn't the reason an Olympic gold medal eluded him. He finished his career with one Olympic silver from the 1988 Seoul Games in which he lost to American athlete Roger Kingdom. Colin was a heavy favourite in Barcelona four years later, but lack of preparation for the second round race saw him suffer a muscle injury, which hampered his performance in the final in which he finished seventh. He says: "I blame myself for not getting Olympic gold. So I did blame nobody else, because my training partner did exactly the same training as me, and he did win the gold in the event I should have won the gold in. So I knew that all the preparation stuff was bang on. "It was just me being an arrogant idiot, which cost me my title. So I could happily live that, because I could put that in a compartment, if you know what I mean. "I think the battles were, because of all the other issues, I didn't enjoy it. It's a shame when I look back and I think, you know, my God, I was the best in the world, and I never enjoyed the environment, because I was always battling with myself. You know, I cried a lot when I was an athlete. I cried an awful lot. "When I was on my own, under the pressure of it all, I cried a lot. And then I'd wipe away the tears, and I'd come back out, and there'd be a big smile, and it'd be like, well, it's just me taking on the world again." Simple ways to check in with those who matter this summer START WITH WHAT'S HAPPENING AROUND YOU Use the moment you're in to open the door gently. BE OPEN ABOUT YOUR OWN FEELINGS Sometimes sharing a little of your own story helps others feel safe to share theirs. ASK QUESTIONS THAT INVITE A REAL ANSWER Open-ended questions give people space to reflect and respond honestly. KEEP IT LIGHT – OR GO DEEPER IF IT FEELS RIGHT Trust your instinct. Some people just need a friendly check-in – others may need space to open up. MOST IMPORTANTLY – JUST LISTEN You don't need to have the answers. Just being there and listening can mean the world. REACH OUT – EVEN WITH A SIMPLE TEXT If someone's been quiet lately, a quick message could be the spark that starts a conversation. REMEMBER TO FOLLOW UP If someone opens up to you, check back in a few days – it shows you care and that the conversation wasn't just a one-off. KNOW WHEN TO ESCALATE If someone is really struggling – or you're worried about their safety – encourage them to speak to a professional, or contact one on their behalf. Courtesy of #SPARkupaconversation campaign 4 4 In 1997, at the age of 30, Colin won silver at both the World Indoor and Outdoor Championships. But behind the scenes he felt lonely and contemplated his own mortality, despite being surrounded by loved ones. "I remember I had a birthday party," he says. "Well, it was my 30th birthday. We're at a restaurant and everybody's there celebrating. "They were having a great time. And I was ripping inside, absolutely ripping, thinking, well, what am I going to do? This decade, the decade I'm going to retire, and I have no idea what I'm going to do with my life. And everybody's celebrating me being 30, and to me, it's one year closer to death. "And that's the way my mind was taking me. And so, again, it's like, it's really, it's tough, you know, when you're an individual like that, and you can't, and you don't feel like you can speak. The room was packed with all my friends, and I felt I couldn't speak to any of them about how genuine I feel, because they were having a great time." Retirement didn't prove the end for Colin, far from it. Reality TV called and he reached the final of Strictly Come Dancing in 2005 as well as finishing third on Dancing On Ice in 2021. He remains heavily involved in athletics and is an ever-present on the BBC's coverage of the sport. Now, he's using his platform and experience of mental health struggles to encourage men to open up. Colin has partnered with SPAR to launch the national #SPARkupaconversation campaign, encouraging people to bust out a BBQ and have a good natter. New research found 44% of men have had fewer than two meaningful personal conversations with a male friend in the past year. It's something Colin would like to see change, particularly with figures showing 75% of the 6,000 suicides in the UK in 2023 were men. And with nearly half of British men saying they'd be more compelled to open up while cooking, having a barbecue is the perfect opportunity to do so. Colin says: "It's so easy to talk to somebody like you when you're already bought into the process. You understand the dynamics, the importance of it. "We're men ourselves. We understand the importance of it, but also the scenarios and situations where you don't have the genuine opportunity to chat. "And so to create a natural environment to chat around a barbecue, it just seems to be the right place because you can have those real special one-on-one times. It doesn't have to be a big moment – it just has to be real.' SPARk the BBQ. SPARk a conversation. Help for mental health If you, or anyone you know, needs help dealing with mental health problems, the following organisations provide support. The following are free to contact and confidential: Samaritans, 116 123 CALM (the leading movement against suicide in men) 0800 585 858 Papyrus (prevention of young suicide) 0800 068 41 41 Shout (for support of all mental health) text 85258 to start a conversation Mind, provide information about types of mental health problems and where to get help for them. Call the infoline on 0300 123 3393 (UK landline calls are charged at local rates, and charges from mobile phones will vary). YoungMinds run a free, confidential parents helpline on 0808 802 5544 for parents or carers worried about how a child or young person is feeling or behaving. The website has a chat option too. Rethink Mental Illness, gives advice and information service offers practical advice on a wide range of topics such as The Mental Health Act, social care, welfare benefits, and carers rights. Use its website or call 0300 5000 927 (calls are charged at your local rate). Heads Together, is the a mental health initiative spearheaded by The Royal Foundation of The Prince and Princess of Wales.
Health Line
10-06-2025
- Health
- Health Line
Is Bulimia Different from Binge Eating?
Bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder (BED) are both serious eating disorders characterized by episodes of consuming large amounts of food, a behavior called binge eating. The primary difference lies in the aftermath: people with bulimia engage in compensatory behaviors, such as vomiting or excessive exercise, to prevent weight gain, whereas those with BED don't often use such measures. Whether you suspect you have BED, bulimia, or a different eating disorder, it's a good idea to seek help. These disorders are treatable. The first step is to speak with a healthcare professional. Key similarities Despite their differences, bulimia and BED share several characteristics: Binge eating episodes: Both disorders involve consuming unusually large quantities of food in a specific period of time, accompanied by a sense of loss of control. Emotional distress: People with these disorders often experience feelings of shame, guilt, or depression following binge episodes. Triggers: Stress, negative emotions, or restrictive dieting can precipitate binge eating in both conditions. Co-occurring mental health conditions: Both disorders are associated with higher rates of anxiety, depression, and other psychological conditions. Co-occurring physical health conditions: Both BED and binge eating can lead to physical health issues. Treatment: Both BED and bulimia are treatable. Therapy, lifestyle changes, and — in some cases — medications can help improve your symptoms. Learn more about therapy for eating disorder treatment. Because both BED and bulimia involve binge eating, many people confuse the two. A trained healthcare professional can help you find the correct eating disorder diagnosis and treat you accordingly. Key differences At first glance, bulimia and BED are quite similar. Understanding the distinctions between bulimia and BED is important for getting the right treatment. Here are some key differences: Compensatory behaviors: Unlike BED, bulimia involves trying to counteract the effects of binge eating, like self-induced vomiting, laxative misuse, fasting, or excessive exercise. Prevalence: BED is more common than bulimia nervosa. In the US, about 1% of people will have bulimia at some point in their lives. For BED, that number rises to 2.8%. Body weight: People with BED are more likely to be overweight or obese. People with bulimia may fall in a more 'normal' weight range, although this isn't always the case. Body image: People with bulimia are more likely to have body image disturbances and an obsession with weight loss. However, people with BED may also have difficulties with body image. Frequency: While both disorders involve binge eating, the frequencies can differ. BED is diagnosed if episodes occur at least once a week for three months without compensatory behaviors. Health consequences: Bulimia can lead to electrolyte imbalances, gastrointestinal issues, and dental problems due to purging. BED is associated with obesity-related conditions like type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease. If you think you have BED or bulimia, a healthcare professional can help you find a diagnosis and get the treatment you need. When to contact a healthcare professional If you or someone you know exhibits signs of bulimia or BED, it's essential to seek professional help. Early intervention can prevent complications and improve outcomes. Consider reaching out to a healthcare professional if you experience any of the following symptoms: Frequent episodes of eating large amounts of food in a short time Engaging in purging behaviors or excessive exercise after eating Feelings of distress, shame, or guilt related to eating habits Preoccupation with body weight or shape A medical professional specializing in can provide a comprehensive assessment and recommend appropriate treatment options.
ABC News
02-06-2025
- General
- ABC News
Midlife women with perimenopause suffer from a 'lack of awareness' when it comes to disordered eating
Warning: This article mentions eating disorders, disordered eating and restrictive eating practices. Sue Cody's decades-long battle with an eating disorder began when she was 22 years old and in love. That was when she suddenly became self-conscious about her figure. "I thought if I lost a bit of weight, he might like me more. But then it spiralled out of control," she says. Sue experienced bulimia, which lasted until she was 30. Now aged 57, she can see how the eating disorder has often reappeared during stressful times in her life, particularly once she reached midlife. "I was able to manage it while my daughter was growing up. Then when she left school and went to uni … I was going through what I'd never heard of before — perimenopause," Sue says. "My body was changing and … I kind of lost my purpose in life. [My eating disorder] spiralled out of control for about four years." Pre-existing disorders triggered by the hormonal and emotional changes of perimenopause are common among the patients that psychologist Janet Lowndes sees. "I also see a lot of people who tell me about what was happening to them as a late adolescent or early adult, and it's pretty clear they were experiencing an eating disorder back then, but it wasn't identified," she says. "Thirty years ago, that was at a time when eating disorders were far less recognised and less likely to be identified." The lead-up to menopause — known as perimenopause — often features a raft of debilitating symptoms that can last as long as 10 years. According to new research from the Butterfly Foundation, a national charity for Australians impacted by eating disorders, more than half of all women experience some level of body dissatisfaction during this time. Around 3.5 per cent of people in menopause experience an eating disorder. Sarah Cox is a clinical psychologist and the Butterfly Foundation's national helpline manager. She says the physical process of aging, hormonal changes and potential health issues can make people more vulnerable to the development of an eating disorder. "This stage of life can also bring a host of social pressures and change, from children moving away, divorce, loss of loved ones, the natural aging process, moving away from society's harmful 'young, thin' ideal and increased body dissatisfaction," she says. "Disordered eating behaviours may arise to cope with these changes." Ms Lowndes believes the diet culture message given to women in midlife is also to blame. "The whole multi-billion-dollar anti-aging industry tells women that their bodies aren't supposed to change," she says. "So, we see a lot of people who are really struggling with their body being larger than they want it to be and then getting into a diet mindset and dietary thinking that isn't helping their health and wellbeing. "I've been to women's health conferences where there is so much conversation around menopause and it's a very fear-based message: 'Be careful of weight gain around menopause'." She says the problem is that "some sections of the health industry" can then perpetuate this message of weight gain during menopause as "being the most terrible thing that could happen". It's a commonly held belief that eating disorders only affect young girls, a myth that specialists in the field are working hard to dispel. Around one in four people experiencing an eating disorder in Australia each year are aged between 40 and 59. Eating disorders can occur in diverse populations, including the LGBTQIA+ community and people from different cultural backgrounds, says Ms Lowndes. "The stereotype of who experiences a eating disorder, being the young, thin white woman — we now know that that is absolutely not the only person who experiences an eating disorder," she says. Ms Cox says there is also a "lack of awareness around eating disorders and body image concerns in mid-life and beyond". That prompted Gemma Sharp, the director of Consortium for Research in Eating Disorders, to develop an online resource for health professionals and those impacted by a midlife eating disorder. "Often the stories we've heard are people reaching out for support for eating issues in midlife and being met with, 'You should have grown out of this by now. You should know better by now.' And that is a completely inappropriate, unhelpful response," she says. It's something Sue has experienced at medical appointments. "When they ask if there is any medical history, I mention anorexia and they go, 'Oh, you don't look like the typical anorexic person', because I'm older," she says. She says when you get opinions like that, "it just makes you feel so much worse". "I had to fight tooth and nail for an inpatient programme and then once I was in there, I felt like I didn't belong because, once again, I was older and I was treated like I should have known better," she says. "I was only there for four weeks, but the whole time I was thinking 'I've made a mistake, I shouldn't be here'." While women and girls are disproportionately impacted by eating disorders and body dissatisfaction, it can happen to anybody, at any age. There's another complication: the similarity between perimenopause symptoms and those associated with an eating disorder. "Hot flushes, night sweats, insomnia, bone density issues, body composition changes — these are all issues that can happen both in eating disorders and the menopause transition," Professor Sharp explains. "Not to mention mood disturbances. Some people have cognitive or concentration concerns, and often in eating disorders, the menstrual cycle is irregular or completely absent. "It can mean that women who are experiencing an eating disorder really don't understand that they're going through the menopause transition because their periods aren't regular enough to be able to tell. "So yes, that was something that came up very strongly in our research. Just complete and utter confusion as to what's going on in one's body." Sue is now in recovery but concedes it's a struggle. Experiencing an eating disorder has taken a profound toll on both her physical and mental health. A year ago, she fell and broke her ribs and she's developed an ulcer from the bulimia, which has meant having to take medication every day to help with indigestion. Recently Sue was also diagnosed with breast cancer. "I hate looking at myself in the mirror. I just want to smash the mirror every time I see myself because I just cannot stand the sight of myself," she says. "But when I think about recovery, I think about making memories with hopefully grandchildren and the rest of my family rather than lying on my death bed, full of regret for not having any happy memories at all." For support with eating disorders and body dissatisfaction call the Butterfly National Helpline on 1800 ED HOPE (1800 33 4673) or visit
