Are you a compulsive eater?

Even if we follow a diet plan, we are all guilty of overeating from time to time, especially when it comes to special occasions: family gatherings, dining out, or attending special events. You know what I’m talking about: that uncomfortable, bloated feeling in your stomach, which sometimes results in stomach ache, after a big meal.

Many of us do from time to time. But occasionally overeating is not binge eating disorder. The National Association of Anorexia and Associated Disorders (ANAD) describes this disorder as: “Characterized by insatiable cravings that can occur at any time of the day or night, usually secretive and full of shame.”

According to the UK National Health Service (NHS), they define this affliction as “Binge eating is an eating disorder in which a person feels compelled to overeat on a regular basis through regular binge eating.”. The general rule is given at least once a week for a prolonged period of 3 months or more.

So what causes binge eating?

Experts aren’t clear on the exact causes of disordered eating in general, and this includes binge eating. But it is generally accepted that it has a lot to do with mental health. Emotional and mental health factors certainly play a separate role, such as depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety or stress. A person’s genes, psychology, and background can also play a role.

Other causes may be feelings of low self-esteem or body image, or feelings of anger, boredom, or loneliness. It is also known that this type of eating develops after a strict diet. If the person’s diet included skipping meals or omitting certain food groups, this could trigger binge eating.

it’s not bulimia

Although they may share the same symptoms, binge eating and bulimia are different. With bulimia, people overeat but then try to purge (flush) the food they have eaten afterwards. This is done either by vomiting, using diuretics or laxatives. Compulsive overeaters do not purge the food they eat.

Who is at risk?

Binge eating disorder can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, or weight. ANAD reports that binge eating is now the number one eating disorder among adults in the US, affecting 3-5% of women (about 5 million) and 2% of men (3 million). And unlike anorexia or bulimia, it’s an “equal opportunity” disorder, affecting roughly the same number of men and women.

What are the risks?

Binge eating can be related to psychological problems, such as feelings of distress, depression, or anxiety. People with this disorder feel like they can’t control what or how much they eat, and the problem only gets worse as this constant overeating behavior continues.

The obvious physical effect of continually overeating is weight gain, but it doesn’t end there. Obesity is a common side effect, with two-thirds of people who binge eat reportedly also being obese. Side effects of being overweight and obese are, of course, the potential weight-related problems of heart disease, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes.

Can it be treated?

Binge eating can be successfully treated. The first step is to get diagnosed. This is usually done by a doctor or health professional who asks the appropriate questions about your emotional health, eating habits, how you think and feel about food, and your body image.

To address the psychological aspects of the disorder, the next step might be a series of self-help or guided self-help programs (self-help plus regular meetings with a professional) or even a specialized group intervention. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can also be used to interrupt negative thought patterns one may have that trigger binge eating. In some cases, medications may also be prescribed.

To overcome the physical problems of weight gain or obesity, a safe and structured diet plan or weight loss program can be developed and followed.

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