Binge Eating Disorder

Binge Eating Disorder

Unlike the other two common types of eating disorders, binge eating disorder effects quite a few men as well as women.  While there are some biological causes of binge eating disorder, for many it is primarily a psychological problem. In fact, for most binge eating is the symptom of a larger overall problem. Also, the eating that is done by emotions can cause a chain reaction of negative emotions, including guilt and disgust. There is definitely both physical and emotional damage that is caused by binge eating disorder. On the physical side, there is obesity, which comes with a host of other physical problems. On the emotional side, there is depression and other serious side effects of binge eating disorder.

Common Causes of Binge Eating Disorder

 
The specifics are going to vary from person to person, but in general, binge eating disorder is closely related to other mental issues, usually those that deal closely with issues of self-esteem and emotional stability. While some people may turn to alcohol or other drugs for escape and to use as an emotional bandage, for others the "drug" of choice is food, with consumption of it in large amounts usually serves as a way to deal with other, deeper emotional problems.  The effects of these binges in turn lead to more negative emotions, which can start the cycle over again. This is where most people have the biggest problem - breaking free of the cycle.

Getting Help with Binge Eating Disorder

 
The most important thing for people who suffer from binge eating disorder is that they are not alone. Nothing can be done about the genetics in your family that may have caused you to be more prone to suffering from an eating disorder, but there is something that can be done about the psychological causes of binge eating. Counseling and therapy with trained professionals will work for some, but others may be interested in a more personal and one-on-one approach to helping with binge eating disorder. For these people there are various online therapies and support groups available.

Definition of Binge Eating Disorder

Binge eating disorder refers to a person that is unable to control the amount of food they consume in a single setting, often eating due to emotions rather than because they are hungry. It is usually caused by a combination of genetics and emotional problems. While nothing can be done about the genetics side of the problem, a combination of counseling and therapy has been shown to be very successful in helping people get their binge eating under control.

Symptoms of / Reasons for Binge Eating Disorder

• Lack of self-control when it comes to food
• Inability to stop eating large amounts of food
• Avoidance of healthy food
• Embarrassment about either weight or food eating habits