The People's Princess Diana suffered from THIS 'secret' illness for nearly a decade! Know what it is

Princess Diana remains one of the British Royal Family's most controversial members, but is still praised and adored by people around the world. Her fearless, compassionate nature and the will to uplift society still inspires millions worldwide.

But while the People's Princess was known for her captivating smile and fiery personality, behind all that was a secret life she lived for years! Long after Diana had already lived through the many health struggles, did she reveal the plight she underwent.

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In a BBC interview that took place in 1995, Martin Bashir asked Diana, "It was subsequently reported that you suffered [from] bulimia. Is that true?"

To which she replied, "Yes, I did. I had bulimia for a number of years. And that's like a secret disease."

At the time, she was married to Prince Charles, who is infamous for his affair with Camilla Parker Bowles, who he married later in 2005.

Photo credit: Tim Graham/Getty Images

The Mayo Clinic says that the exact cause of bulimia is unknown and that many factors could play a role in the development of eating disorders such as bulimia.

In the biography 'Diana: Her True Story, Princess Diana' written by Andrew Morton in 1992, Princess Di's confessional tapes revealed that she suffered from the 'secret disease' when she was only 19 and went on for years.

"The bulimia started the week after we got engaged and would take nearly a decade to overcome," she had said.

Furthermore, Diana reportedly said, "My husband put his hand on my waistline and said, ‘Oh, a bit chubby here, aren’t we?’"

"And that triggered off something in me – and the Camilla thing," she adds.

Photo credit: Tim Graham/Getty Images

During the BBC Panorama interview with Bashir, she explained, "You inflict it upon yourself because your self-esteem is at a low ebb, and you don't think you're worthy or valuable.

"You fill your stomach up four or five times a day — some do it more — and it gives you a feeling of comfort.

"It's like having a pair of arms around you, but it's temporarily, temporary."

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Princess Diana said: "Then you're disgusted at the bloatedness of your stomach, and then you bring it all up again.

"You have to know that when you have bulimia you're very ashamed of yourself and you hate yourself — and people think you're wasting food — so you don't discuss it with people," she added.

She explained further saying, "The thing about bulimia is your weight always stays the same, whereas with anorexia you visibly shrink. So you can pretend the whole way through. There's no proof."

Photo credit: Bettmann Getty Images

Bulimia nervosa, also called bulimia is a serious eating disorder, in which people who suffer from this illness eat in large amounts, which is binge-eating, and then 'purge' that is to try to get rid of it.

It is an unhealthy and life-threatening habit, wherein people try to get rid of the calories to prevent weight gain.

This condition could be characterised by the urge to regularly self-induce vomiting or misuse laxatives, weight-loss supplements, diuretics or enemas after binging, as per the Mayo Clinic.

One may also resort to fasting, restrictive diet or intense and exhaustive workout routine.

Bulimia can be very concerning. Some may not even know they have the condition, which is why understanding the symptoms is key. Here are some of the warning signs of bulimia:

- Too preoccupied with your weight and body shape

- Experiencing fear and anxiety of gaining weight

- Frequently eating in large amounts in one go

- Self-inducing vomit to get rid of the calories

- Indulging in strict diets, fasting and working out excessively

- Using dietary supplements and weight-loss friendly products

It is important to note that bulimia can cause several complications that can lead to both physical and mental challenges. Some of the things to be cautious of are as follows:

- Having a negative self-esteem or lacking confidence

- Problems with relationships

- Heart issues including arrhythmias and heart failure

- Anxiety, depression, personality disorders

- Digestive issues

- The risk of self-injury and suicide may be high

- Misuse of drugs and alcohol

Preventing bulimia may be difficult. However, you can do your bit in reducing the risk or help those who are suffering from the condition by encouraging them to aim for a healthier lifestyle and life in general.

Furthermore, you must nip body image issues in the bud, especially in children. Reinforce healthy body image and teach your child there all shapes and sizes are beautiful and unique in their own ways.

Do not talk about weight at home or make remarks on someone's shape, size or weight.

Never introduce dieting. If one has health problems for which they must reduce weight, look for healthier options.

Always lend a hand to someone who may be suffering from food issues, that may indicate eating disorders. Support them and communicate with them.