Binge-Eating Symptoms

Binge-Eating

Binge-eating symptoms include uncontrollable, excessive eating, followed by feelings of shame and guilt. Unlike those with bulimia, binge-eaters typically do not purge their food. However, many bulimics are also binge eaters.

About one in five young women report that they have had binge-eating symptoms, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Men account for about 40% of cases involving binge-eating symptoms.

Binge-eaters may use food to fill an emotional void by overeating to cope with life's challenges and with their emotional insecurities. In reality, their overeating causes guilt, shame and disgust. Frequently, they are overweight and probably suffer from low self esteem.

Binge-Eating Symptoms

Those with binge-eating symptoms typically are overweight or obese. Binge eaters may feel like they have no control over their eating behavior, and may eat in secret because of shame and embarrassment. Bingers may hide food. Excessive amounts of food containers and wrappers are also evidence of a binge-eating symptom.

A common binge-eating symptom for a binger is to eat when they are not hungry. Another binge-eating symptom is to eat very quickly. Binge eaters eat when they feel anxious, lonely and/or depressed. They eat when they are stressed or confused by emotional challenges, eating or grazing without ever feeling satisfied or until being uncomfortably full.

A binge-eating symptom or common characteristic is to feel shame and remorse over their behavior. They gain and lose weight often, often experimenting with different diets. Binge eaters obsess about their body image. Excessive exercise may be a sign or symptom of someone who is binge-eating.

Causes of Binge-Eating Disorder Symptoms

Causes of binge-eating vary, but there are usually a variety of contributing factors. A traumatic event, which may have taken place years before evidence of binge-eating symptoms, is often a cause. Such events may include:

• Sexual abuse or rape
• Emotional abuse
• Parents' divorce
• Death of a loved one
• Physical violence

Helping Someone With Binge-Eating Disorder Symptoms

If you suspect you or someone you know has binge-eating disorder symptoms, do something about it. Binge-eating disorder is a life-threatening disease. Seek professional counseling immediately.

To learn more about Walden Behavioral Care's binge-eating treatment programs, contact Walden at 781-647-6700 or Info@waldenbehavioralcare.com.