A study which recently appeared in the International Journal of Eating Disorders reports that symptoms in young women who struggle with bulimia often decrease after marriage. Despite that, few of the women showed any significant change in their overall self-esteem or body satisfaction.

"The findings suggest that women will limit the most 'socially unacceptable' symptoms of bulimia once they live with a partner. . . and cohabitation did not stop women from taking more discreet, but still unhealthy, measures to control their weight, like using diet pills or laxatives."

The study included 2,600 young men and women and took place over a five year period, and brings to light some of the social forces which affect bulimia. Researchers believe this new understanding may help with treatment of the disorder.