Binge Eating Disorders

Binge eating is very serious and has an impact on both physical and mental health. The causes of binge eating disorder are still unknown. Up to half of all people with binge eating disorder have a history of depression. People with binge eating disorder frequently eat large amounts of food while feeling a loss of control over their eating. This disorder is different from binge-purge syndrome because people with binge eating disorder usually do not purge afterward by vomiting or using laxatives. The disorder is found in all ethno-cultural and racial populations. Binge eating disorder is slightly more common in women, with three women affected for every two men. The disorder affects blacks as often as whites; its frequency in other ethnic groups is not yet known. Binge eating is often a mixed-up way of dealing with or avoiding difficult emotions.

Binge eating disorder can be triggered by dieting, depression, anxiety, boredom, or even stress, which is then relieved with binge eating. Obese people with binge eating disorder often feel bad about themselves, are preoccupied with their appearance, and may avoid social gatherings. Most feel ashamed and try to hide their problem. A person suffering with binge eating disorder is at health risk for a heart attack, high blood-pressure and cholesterol, kidney disease and failure, arthritis and bone deterioration, and stroke. Several studies have found that people with binge eating disorder may find it harder than other people to stay in weight loss treatment. Behavior therapy, as it is used to treat obesity, may be the best treatment for binge eating disorder. Behavior therapy has been shown to reduce body weight and the frequency of bingeing, even when no special attention is given to binge eating.

Causes of Binge eating disorders

The common causes and risk factor's of Binge eating disorders:

The exect causes of binge eating disorder are still unknown.
Depression.
Emotional cues such as; anger, sadness, boredom, and anxiety.
Impulsive behavior and certain other emotional problems.

Symptoms of Binge eating disorders

Some sign and symptom related to Binge eating disorders are as follows:

Weight gain.
Loss of sexual desire.
Depression.
Feelings of guilt and shame.
Avoidance of social situations where food will be present.

Treatment of Binge eating disorders

Several methods are being used to treat binge eating disorder. Cognitive-behavioral therapy teaches patients techniques to monitor and change their eating habits as well as to change the way they respond to difficult situations.
Treatment with medications such as antidepressants may be helpful for some individuals.
Interpersonal psychotherapy helps people look at their relationships with friends and family and make changes in problem areas

Disclaimer : All information on www.depression-information.org is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, please consult your doctor.