Binge eating disorder (BED) is something that affects 2% of the world population. Most patients will overeat for a few hours without thinking about the consequences. It’s not just about eating as much as possible, but for many patients it involves covering up deeper psychological issues. It is a defense mechanism that can create a host of other problems.
It seems that it is important to know the bases of this disorder in order to identify and solve it. And you should visit a medical professional if you recognize signs of this disorder.
BED symptoms
You eat large amounts of food during a limited period of time, such as a 2-hour window. Eat even if you are not hungry enough to feel extremely uncomfortable.
He eats at an extremely fast rate and often hides his eating episodes from those around him. After the eating episodes from him, he feels guilty, ashamed and depressed about what he just ate.
risk factors
There are a few reasons why someone might be dealing with this disorder.
Genetics: In many cases, the disorder is hereditary and has to do with dopamine. This is the chemical in our brain that is connected to reward and pleasure, and some people have a heightened sensitivity to it.
Brain changes and gender: Yes, women are more susceptible to BED than men. In the US alone, 3.6% of women have it, compared to 2% of men. Additionally, people with the disorder appear to have altered brain structure and less self-control over what they eat.
Body image problems and obesity: People who overeat often have a very negative view of their body and are, in many cases, overweight.
Psychological problems: childhood traumas, phobias, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder can cause people to turn to food as a coping mechanism.
Health risks
Nearly 50% of people with BED are also obese, putting them at very high risk for a number of health problems. Diabetes, sleep problems, chronic pain, asthma, and irritable bowel syndrome are some of the most common problems.
Due to these factors, they are more likely to end up at a health center for treatment. Additionally, people with BED have reported problems with social interactions.
Ways to prevent it
Preventing binge eating disorder isn’t really possible, but there is a way to address it early on. If you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above, you can see your doctor for advice and treatment options.
If you have a child and notice from the beginning that their relationship with food is not healthy, you should talk to a specialist doctor. Early treatment of the problem will help you and your child identify and treat it.
treatment options
Cognitive behavior therapy: If your binge is due to repressed issues, you’ll need to address those issues first and then determine your food intake. You will need to regulate your negative feelings and regain control to limit your food intake.
Dialectical behavior therapy: With this method you will learn to better tolerate stress and improve your relationships with others. If these are the reasons that lead you to binge, you will see that there is a healthy way to solve problems.
Medicines: This might be the last thing you want to try, but there have been cases where medications have reduced bingeing episodes. However, they may not be successful with weight loss. In any case, you should always consult your doctor and make sure you are under his supervision.
What is your relationship with food? Do you know someone who has an unhealthy back and forth with her?