Binge eaters suffer from a combination of symptoms similar to those of compulsive overeaters and bulimics. They periodically go on large binges (at least two days a week for six months, on average), uncontrollably consuming an unusually large quantity of food in under two hours, and eat until they are
uncomfortably full. Unlike bulimics, bingers do not purge via self-induced vomiting or laxatives.
The causes of binge eating disorder are still unknown. Up to half of all people with binge eating disorder have a history of depression, although it's unclear what the exact connection is between the two.
Bingers may be people who will never fit the impossible cultural ideal, so they diet, get hungry and binge. They may eat for emotional reasons: to comfort themselves, to avoid threatening situations or to numb emotional pain. Anger, sadness, boredom, anxiety or other negative emotions can trigger binge episodes. Bingeing can also be a way to isolate oneself, since the binger may think that their obesity will repel people.
common physical effects and health risks:
severe weight gain
radical weight fluctuations
body odor
swollen limbs
bad skin
high blood pressure and/or high cholesterol
all the diseases that accompany obesity, including diabetes, gallbladder disease, heart disease and certain types of cancer
how to identify binge eating disorder
Most people overeat from time to time, or eat because they're bored or upset, but that doesn't indicate a binge eating disorder. Instead, bingers feel unable to stop eating voluntarily, even though they know their eating patterns are abnormal. They may eat healthy foods, but they are just as likely to eat huge amounts of junk food. Some people miss work, school or social activities to binge.
Most bingers have dieted unsuccessfully, which can lead to more weight gain and more bingeing. This can lead to feelings of powerlessness, guilt, shame or failure, which can spiral into a cycle of losing and regaining weight (yo-yo dieting).
Obese people with binge eating disorder often feel ashamed and try to hide their problem. Often, their friends and family aren't aware of any bingeing at all.
common behavioral patterns:
bingeing
frequently eating alone
depression
preoccupation with weight
feeling disgusted, depressed or guilty after overeating
treatments
Dieting doesn't help binge eaters; they may find it harder than other people do to stay in weight loss programs, and may be more likely to regain weight quickly.
Instead, treatment that focuses on binge eating itself is helpful before weight loss programs. Hospitalization is rarely necessary, but it may be required for depression or self-destructive behavior.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy can be helpful. This therapy helps bingers learn techniques to monitor and change their eating habits as well as the way they respond to difficult situations. Family or group therapy may encourage bingers to examine their relationships with friends and family, and to make changes in problem areas. Self-help groups can also provide support.
Antidepressants may help, since they can help suppress the need to binge. Often, a combination of all of the above methods is the most effective in controlling binge eating disorder.
