Katharine McPhee opens up about her 7-year battle with bulimia in the February issue of Shape magazine.
"The more I focused on my weight, the worse my bulimia got," says the American Idol runner-up, 25. "Now I'm more easygoing. I stopped fighting myself and became more forgiving of my body. Ironically, the weight came off naturally through exercise but no dieting."
McPhee says she no longer pays attention to how many pounds she weighs.
"At my last physical, the nurse took my vitals and said, 'Wow, you must be taking care of yourself! Your blood pressure is perfect. You're very healthy,'" she says. "Hearing her say that made me feel better then seeing an 'ideal' number on the scale."
Check out amazing before-and-after American Idol makeover pics
While she's adapting a healthier body image, McPhee still battles depression.
"I've tried writing down affirmations, but thst doesn't work for me," she explains. Every Monday, she attends a women's group meeting organized by her church where everyone reveals their highs and lows of the week.
"This exercise is so cool because it allows me to reflect on where I am in my life, and also to hear what others are going through," she says. "When we're done, I feel more connected to the world and not so lonely. It's the best way to start my week."
