"I have always known that my eating patterns or eating outbursts (as I called them) were not normal, but I always thought that they occurred because I lacked willpower, self-control and strength. However, after one particularly bad binge episode, I knew I could not deny my problem anymore - I needed help!!"
Binge eating disorder (bingeing) is still a relatively new diagnosed eating disorder. It is estimated that more individuals battle with this eating disorder than with any of the others. This disorder is similar to bulimia in regards to consuming large quantities of food while feeling a complete lack of control. However, different from bulimia, the individual will not purge the food that was consumed during the binge. When in the binge, he/she no longer feels full and will continue to eat until the point of uncomfortable pain. Following the binge comes feelings of guilt and shame, followed by anxiety and even depression.
1. Recurrent episodes of binge eating characterized by BOTH of the following:
A. Eating in a discrete amount of time (within a 2 hour period), an amount that is definitely larger than most people would eat during a similar time period.
B. Sense of lack of control over eating during an episode.
2. Binge eating episodes are associated with three (or more) of the following:
A. Eating much more rapidly than normal.
B. Eating until uncomfortably full.
C. Eating large amounts of food when not hungry.
D. Eating alone because of being embarrassed by how much one is eating.
E. Feeling disgust with oneself, depressed, or guilty after overeating.
3. Marked distress regarding binge eating is present.
4. The binge eating occurs, on average, at least 2 days a week for 6 months.
5. The binge eating is not associated with the regular use of inappropriate compensatory behaviors (e.g. purging, fasting, compulsive exercising).
Signs and Symptoms of Binge Eating Disorder:
Rapid weight gain
Eating large quantities of food even when not hungry
Disgust and shame after overeating
Depressed and anxious mood
Eating food to the point that one is uncomfortable and even in pain
Going from one diet to the next constantly
Feeling out of control over food
Eating late at night
Hiding food around the home, anticipating the binge
Does not use any measures (whatsoever) to purge the binged food
Constant weight fluctuations
Sexual avoidance
Exhibits an abnormally low self-esteem
Attributes any successes or failures to weight
Avoids many social situations
Uses food as a "drug": self-medicate
Medical Complications of Binge Eating Disorder:
Obesity
Diabetes
Osteoarthritis
High Blood Pressure and Cholesterol
Chronic Kidney problems/failure
Menstrual Irregularities
Suicidal thoughts and attempts
Coronary disease
Gallbladder disease
Certain types of cancer
DEATH
To find out if you or someone you know maybe suffering from Binge Eating Click Here. To find out why people develop Binge Eating, Click Here. To find out how to approach a loved one who is battling, Click here. To find treatment in your area for Binge Eating Disorder Click Here. To find suggested reading lists on Binge Eating Disorder Click Here. To find personal stories on individuals who overcame Binge Eating Disorder, Click Here.
