A binge eating disorder is when you consume large amounts of food on a regular basis and is a serious eating disorder. Over eating occurs often among people, especially during holidays, but occasional over eating doesn't make it a disorder. It becomes a disorder when it becomes uncontrollable and is usually done in secret. Someone with a binge eating disorder will feel shame and embarrassment and want to stop but the compulsion to eat can not be resisted.
Signs and Symptoms
People who have a binge eating disorder may consume 20,000 to 30,000 calories worth of food during a binge. Behavioral and emotional symptoms include depression, eating large amounts of food, eating even though you are full, eating rapidly, anxiety, hoarding food and hiding empty food containers.
Self Care
Although a binge eating disorder is not something that you can treat on your own there are things you can do to go along with your treatment plan. Some of these things include sticking to your treatment, don't skip therapy, avoid dieting, eat breakfast, don't stock up on food, and be sure to get the right nutrition.
Health Risks
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Gallbladder disease
Disclaimer
The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you think you have Binge Eating Disorder, please consult your doctor.
References
Fast Facts
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Fact:
Also called compulsive overeating
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Fact:
Anger, emotional hurt or stress may trigger a binge
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Fact:
Affects 2% of Americans
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Fact:
Affects women more often than men
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Fact:
Can be normal or heavier than average weight
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Symptoms
eating unusually large amounts of food, not stopping when full
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Fact:
Believed to be the most common of all eating disorders
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Fact:
Can develop in children and adults
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Most common age
40s and 50s
