BINGE EATING DISORDER (BED)
Almost all of us have eaten too much at some time during our lives, but for most of us, this overindulgence is infrequent and does not affect our physical or psychological well-being. Those with BED, on the other hand, will frequently stuff themselves with large amounts of food to the point of discomfort in a relatively short period of time. They will eat when they are not hungry and will continue to eat even when they are full. Unlike Bulimics, binge eaters do not purge.
The myth that you can tell who has an eating disorder based upon their appearance is incredibly dangerous to those who are struggling. — Jennifer Rollin MSW, LCSW-C
People with BED are ashamed and embarrassed by their behavior and will frequently eat alone or in hiding. Having overeaten, they are overcome by guilt, depression, and shame. If you suspect that you may be suffering from this disorder, you should find someone to talk to. Read BetterHelp’s insights about it. Finding help early is the key to overcoming the problem and restoring your self-esteem and self-image.
THE MOST COMMON DISORDER IN THE UNITED STATES
Binge Eating Disorder is the most common eating disorder in the United States. At around three percent of the population, the number of people suffering from BED is higher than the combined number suffering from anorexia and bulimia.
The onset of this disorder is normally in late adolescence or early adulthood. BED is prevalent in all strata of the population and is found across all ages, races, socio-economic groups, and educational levels. It is fairly evenly spread between men and women, although more women seek help, probably because women tend to be more weight-conscious. It is estimated that less than thirty percent of people with BED are receiving treatment.
Patients with eating disorders contend with a difficult emotional landscape marked by isolation and loneliness as well as shame, guilt and embarrassment, not to mention a profound hopelessness about the possibilities of emotional connection. — Tom Wooldridge, PsyD, ABPP, CEDS
It was only in 2013 that the American Psychiatric Association recognized BED as an eating disorder. As with other eating disorders. BED is also associated with co-existing mental disorders and physical health issues.
THE CAUSES
Many of us learn from our parents at an early age to turn to food for comfort. Some people may continue to use food to overcome emotional stress, depression, anxiety, or simple boredom. The problem with this is that the problems are not resolved by the emotional eating, but are worsened, as binge eating will normally lead to weight gain, this will, in turn, lead to unhappiness and distress with the body image which will fuel the compulsive eating and so starts the cycle.
People with BED may have a genetic predisposition for this disorder. Many have a history of dieting and fluctuations in weight. Sometimes, the disorder is triggered by relationship problems or traumatic life events. There may also be a biological reason for the disorder. Many suffer from co-existing disorders such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse, or bipolar disorder.
THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF BED
The signs of BED include tiredness and the inability to sleep, feeling bloated or constipated, and food intolerance. An individual with BED is usually preoccupied with food, weight, and body image, and binge eating is followed by deep shame, guilt, and distress.
They may eat normally when with others and then overeat when alone, or they may eat continuously throughout the day. They may hide or hoard food, evading questions regarding eating habits. They normally become increasingly more isolated and may indulge in self-harm.
Frequently, people with BED will eat distractedly whilst occupied with other pastimes such as viewing television or reading a book. They often hide their eating habits because they are embarrassed or ashamed.
HEALTH IMPLICATIONS OF UNTREATED BED
If left unchecked, BED will result in weight gain and obesity, and the subsequent health risks associated with obesity. These include Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and stroke. In addition, osteoarthritis and chronic kidney problems can result.
TREATMENT
Recently, researchers from the University of North Carolina published a report proving that BED and the associated psychological symptoms can be overcome through a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and medication.
Your eating disorder does not define you, nor does it dictate who you will become. — Greta Gleissner LCSW
SEEK HELP
If you think you may have an eating disorder, you should seek help. The long-term health implications of poor nutrition or obesity are dire, and the psychological damage can be dealt with once treatment commences.
REFERENCES
http://www.brookhavenhospital.com/talk-therapy-medication-may-help-fight-binge-eating-disorder/
https://bedaonline.com/understanding-binge-eating-disorder
http://kidshealth.org/en/teens/binge-eating.html?WT.ac=t-ra#
http://www.nedc.com.au/binge-eating-disorder
https://www.helpguide.org/articles/eating-disorders/binge-eating-disorder.htm
https://www.helpguide.org/articles/diets/emotional-eating.htm
http://eating-disorders.org.uk/information/compulsive-overeating-binge-eating-disorder/