What Is Binge Eating?Binge eating is much different from an occasional overindulgence. A lot of people eat too much on occasion. Who hasn’t overindulged at a favorite restaurant once or twice? Those who binge face a constant battle with food. They eat large amounts of food very quickly and then feel tremendous feelings of shame and guilt over what they have done. This particular disorder has recently been recognized as a legitimate eating disorder. While similar to bulimia nervosa, someone with this eating disorder does not induce vomiting after meals. This type of disorder affects mostly women, but one third of those who have it are men.
Someone who has a problem with binging will probably not tell other people. Most people prefer to eat alone to hide the fact that they binge. A lot of times they are embarrassed by their problem and do not want to be seen while eating. There are some signs to help determine if someone has this eating disorder. A person who binges will most likely have a pattern of irregular eating. They may skip meals where they are other people present. They may also eat late at night. Most of these people are overweight and obese individuals are at a higher risk of having a binge problem. Generally in order to be diagnosed with this eating disorder, a person must binge at least two days a week for six months straight. Someone who binges will often be depressed or anxious. You may notice that they tend to eat more during an emotional crisis or family problem. You may also notice the person avoiding others. Socializing often involves food and someone with this type of disorder prefers to avoid the possibility of bingeing in front of others.
Most people with this disorder are overweight, if not obese. Obesity can lead to a host of health problems including diabetes, heart disease, stroke, high cholesterol, high blood pressure and certain cancers. In addition to physical health problems, there are also complications affecting one's mental health. Over half of those who have this disorder also suffer from depression. After bingeing, they feel guilt and shame which only leads to deeper depression and more binge eating.
It is not recommended that binge eaters try to go on a diet to treat their disorder. A diet is too restrictive for such a person and will lead to more binging. The best treatment for a binge eater is therapy with a therapist who specializes in eating disorders. There are a couple of different types of therapeutic techniques that have shown effective in treating this disorder. Cognitive-Behavioral therapy uses techniques to help patients change their behaviors and attitudes towards food. Another form of therapy is Interpersonal Psychotherapy which works with the patient's family and friends to help alleviate the problem. Some binge eaters have also found comfort and help by attending support groups. It is important to know that binging is not something that will go away on its own. If you suspect you or someone you know has a binging problem, please seek help.
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