Binge Eating Disorder

Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is a type of eating disorder characterized by excessive eating in a short space of time even when not hungry. However, binging episodes do not follow with purging (i.e. self induced vomiting), nor are laxatives or diuretics used.

WHO GETS BED?
Both men and women can suffer for this condition. Most common age range is between 20 and 40. Most people with BED are overweight or obese, however others might be at a regular weight.

Causes

There is not one but many factors that might cause BED. They are not always easy to identify but they might include any of the following

Frequent concern over weight gain
Engaging in diets
Poor confidence
Emotional distress
Family dynamics (e.g. pressure) and attitude towards body image and food
Stress e.g. sudden change, loss, disappointment, death, abuse
Genes

Symptoms

Symptoms will vary and can go completely unnoticed. However, the following are quite common:

Eats excessive amounts in a very short space of time even when not hungry
Feels out of control
Eats until uncomfortably full
Frequent diet with poor progress, resulting in weight gain
Prefers eating alone or in secret
Feels guilty and/or ashamed
Signs of Anxiety, Depression, Obsessive compulsive disorders

HOW DOES IT AFFECT FAMILY LIFE?

The secret life of the binge eater is often very difficult for families to understand which can lead to frequent misunderstandings and arguments, especially during meal times.

Long term effects of Binge Eating Disorder

Physical and psychological effects might include:

Weight gain
Malnutrition
Heart disease
High blood pressures
High cholesterol
Mood swings or depression
Diabetes
Stress, anxiety
Poor confidence
Social withdrawal
And many more effects that could lead in some severe cases to developing diabetes, obesity, certain cancers

Treatement

BED needs specialist help to treat both the psychological causes and its physical side effects. This is a process that can take time and will depend largely on the motivation levels of the person with BED to want to change. A multidisciplinary team composed of a medical doctor, a psychotherapist, a nutritionist amongst other experts will be required. Depending on levels of severity, either outpatient or inpatient treatment maybe advised. Seeking help can be difficult and filled with a lot of ambivalence. At MEEDA, we are here to help provide support and guide you in the best way possible. You can contact us or request a short talk over our Online HotLine.

CAN I RECOVER FROM BED?

Full recovery from BED is possible and many do recover in just a few months with the right professional help.

Binge Eating Disorder