Amanda- My name is Mel and I'm 47 and led the life you are describing for about 15 years. I also started when I was about 19. I stopped the vomitting when I had kids but I've fought with my body since I was 12, between starving, exercising hours and hours a day, and vomiting. Finally, this summer, at 175 pounds (I'm also 5'3") made myself sick for the last time. It does HORRIBLE things to the inside of your stomach, your esophagus, and your mental state. My step-mother gave me her copy of "Sugarbusters" book and it has changed my life. I've lost 35 pounds so far, and this does not feel like a diet. I still workout alot, but not crazy like before. Sugarbusters cuts out all added sugars, white potatoes and refined wheat products from your diet. I plan on eating this way for the rest of my life. I know it's not for everyone, but a lot of people have had dramatic results on it. It is NOT a low or no-carb diet as some people think. For a good explanation of the diet (we call it Way of Eating) log onto
www.vitadolce.org. The woman who set up the site has had an amazing personal transformation and the site is full of good information and other links.
Please take care of yourself and get help if you need it. I didn't and wish I had.
mel