Binge Eating Disorder

Facts About Binge Eating Disorder

Binge eating disorder, as the name implies, is characterized by 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.

Binge eating is even more common than binge eating disorder or bulimia. About one in five young women report that they have had binge-eating problems, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Unlike binge eating disorder and bulimia, binge eating is also relatively common in men, who account for about 40% of binge eating disorder cases.

Binge eaters often feel shame and guilt over their condition.

Medical Impact of Binge Eating Disorder

Binge eaters are often obese or overweight and are susceptible to health problems caused by being overweight, including high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol. Those who are obese increase their risk of heart diseases, many types of cancer and gallbladder disease.

Like those with other eating disorders, binge eaters often have other psychiatric illnesses and are especially susceptible to depression.

Signs of Binge Eating

Those with binge eating disorder typically are overweight or obese. They feel like they have no control over their eating behavior, and eat in secret and when they are not hungry. They also feel shame and remorse over their behavior.

Bingers may hide food. Excessive amounts of food containers and wrappers are also evidence of binging.

Causes of Binge Eating Disorder

Causes of binge eating vary, but there are usually a variety of contributing factors. A traumatic event, which may have taken place years before binge eating manifested itself, 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

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

For help, contact Walden Behavioral Care at 781-647-6700 or Info@waldenbehavioralcare.com.