A Look at Binge Eating Disorders

Binge eating is as much an eating disorder as anorexia or bulimia. Although anorexics and bulimics are physically capable of being distinguished, binge eaters disguise themselves as normal-weight, or overweight individuals. It is estimated that binge eating disorder is actually more common and frequent than anorexia or bulimia.

Signs of Binge Eating Disorder

Everyone over-indulges the odd time, particularly over holidays or at social gatherings. Those who suffer from binge eating disorder – or BED for short – find themselves overeating all the time. It is a way of life for them. The following are signs of a person suffering from BED:

* Eats until they are physically sick or completely uncomfortable

* Eats faster during binge sessions than when eating normally

* Eats excessive amounts of food even when not hungry

* Does not use self-control in regards to food consumption

* Usually eats alone because of shame or embarrassment

* Feels ashamed or depressed after the binging session

What Triggers BED?

Studies suggest that binge eaters may have some sort of underlying depression that may or may not have been diagnosed or addressed. Approximately 50% of binge eaters suffer from depression. Binge eating may also be a response to a negative situation, causing the over-eater to gorge on lots of food for comfort. Constant dieting or changes in eating patterns can also lead to BED, as can genetics.

Consequences of BED

The most obvious result of binge eating is weight gain. Gaining weight can then lead to a string of other problems, such as diabetes, lethargy, high blood pressure and heart disease. Aside from the physical side-effects of BED, these people can also suffer psychological effects due to the shame and self-loathing they may feel after their binge sessions.

How To Get Help For BED

If there is an underlying psychological reason for the binge eating, then this must be addressed and dealt with. The binge sessions will ultimately be helped if the source of the problem is corrected. This may require cognitive behavior therapy to get the person to learn how to eat properly without emotions. Exercise can also help a great deal, since it helps to shed weight and improve mental health as well.

Although binge eating disorder is less recognized, it can be quite dangerous. It is imperative to recognize this disorder, and seek help to correct it before putting your health in grave danger.

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