Binge eating disorder is characterized
by consuming large quantities of food in a very short period of
time until the individual is uncomfortably full. Binge eating disorder
is much like bulimia except the individuals do not use any form
of purging (i.e. vomiting, laxatives, fasting, etc.) following a
binge. Individuals usually feel out of control during a binge episode,
followed by feelings of guilt and shame. Many individuals who suffer
with binge eating disorder use food as a way to cope with or block
out feelings and emotions they do not want to feel. Individuals
can also use food as a way to numb themselves, to cope with daily
life stressors, to provide comfort to themselves or fill a void
they feel within. Like all eating disorders, binge eating is a serious
problem but can be overcome through proper treatment.
Signs and Symptoms:
- weight gain
- feeling out of control over eating
- low self-esteem
- depression
- anxiety
- experiences fluctuations in weight
- loss of sexual desire
- hiding food
- feelings of guilt and shame
- disgusted with self
- going on many different diets
- belief that life will be better if they lose weight
- secretive eating patterns
- avoidance of social situations where food will be present
- suicidal thoughts
- Physical/Medical Complications
- obesity
- menstrual irregularities
- diabetes
- high blood pressure
- high cholestrol
- osteoarthritis
- decreased mobility
- shortness of breath
- heart disease
- liver and kidney problems
- cardiac arrest and/or death
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