What We Can Learn From Tim McComsey's Battle With Bulimia

Eating disorders are often shrouded in secrecy. Occasionally a Hollywood actress will finally come clean about her struggle – but it’s not very often. What happens when a successful personal trainer, dietician and fitness model admits they have battled extensively with bulimia nervosa? What happens when it is a man? Dallas-based TRYM Fit owner and trainer Tim McComsey took his own battle with bulimia public, and I believe his story can give hope to anyone struggling with an eating disorder.

To look at Tim you would assume he is another well sculpted, clean eating, workout-obsessed young man — who also happens to be a certified personal trainer and registered dietician. You would never know that for many years he was caught in the grip of an eating disorder he was hiding from the world. Every day Tim would instruct his clients on how to get in the best shape possible, eat well and live a positive life. All the while what had started out as a high school interest in clean eating, had spiraled into secretly binging and purging every night — leaving him tired and miserable, but unable to stop.

For four years, Tim led a double life. By day, a successful fitness expert. By night, he struggled with bulimia. “I knew that I needed to change, but I didn’t know how, so I made a game out of trying to quit. My goal in each game was simply to stop regurgitating one meal at a time. Eventually, after failing over and over again, I saw some success. A few meals became one full day of being healthy. One day became two, two became three — and then I would relapse and have to start all over.”

It wasn’t magic, it didn’t happen overnight. But after several years of battling, and refusing to give up each time he relapsed, Tim had found a new confidence and strength in himself, which pushed him to keep going. “I started to feel better, more energetic and I even slept better at night. I knew I could never go back to the life I had lived for so long. The willpower I had to never binge and purge again grew, and I loved the feeling of living a life that felt good. The addiction was still strong and powerful, but the amazing feeling of true health and the ability to allow others into my life finally outweighed my addiction.”

These days, Tim McComsey is living life on his own terms, with his “less is more” approach. He gives hope to others who struggle with being the healthiest version of themselves. He is charismatic, hardworking and passionate about health and fitness. He is also humble about his success, both personally and professionally — but is quick to offer his unconditional support and assistance to those who struggle with the same demons he once did.

“I don’t follow any particular diet, and I never count calories. I just eat what I want with moderation and mindfulness. My personal story and helping others find their own strengths are the reasons I continue to work out and eat healthy. It’s crucial for each of us to find out who we are and create that balance in our lives.”

If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, you can call the National Eating Disorders Association Helpline at 1-800-931-2237.

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Photo via Tim McComsey Facebook page.