Get the Binge eating help you need

If you’re struggling with binge eating, know that you’re not alone. Binge eating disorder is the most common eating disorder in the United States, affecting 3.5% of women, 2% of men, and 1.6% of adolescents. Despite its prevalence, binge eating disorder is often misunderstood. Here, we’ll provide an in-depth look at what binge eating disorder is, its causes, and how to get help.

What is Binge Eating Disorder?

Binge eating disorder is an eating disorder characterized by episodes of binge eating followed by feelings of guilt, shame, and embarrassment. During a binge, an individual may eat an excessive amount of food in a short period of time (e.g., within 2 hours). Binge eating episodes are often associated with a loss of control over eating and a feeling of being unable to stop eating even when full.

Binge eating disorder is different from overeating. Overeating may occur during a special occasion, such as a holiday dinner or birthday party. However, overeating does not occur on a regular basis and is not associated with the same negative feelings as binge eating.

What Causes Binge Eating Disorder?

There is no single cause of binge eating disorder. Rather, it is thought to be the result of a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors.

Biological factors that may contribute to binge eating disorder include:

A family history of eating disorders or obesity

An imbalance of certain chemicals in the brain, such as serotonin

Psychological factors that may contribute to binge eating disorder include:

• Low self-esteem
• Body dysmorphic disorder (a condition in which an individual is excessively concerned about and preoccupied with a perceived flaw in their appearance)
• Perfectionism
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Stress

Binge eating disorder may also be associated with social factors, such as:

• Dieting or other negative experiences with food
• A history of trauma or abuse

What are the Consequences of Binge Eating Disorder?

Binge eating disorder can have serious physical and psychological consequences.

Physically, binge eating disorder can lead to:

• Obesity
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Type II diabetes
• Sleep apnea
• Gastrointestinal problems

Psychologically, binge eating disorder can lead to:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Low self-esteem
• Body dysmorphic disorder
• Eating disorders
• Substance abuse

How is Binge Eating Disorder Treated and what binge eating help is available?

Binge eating disorder is treated with a combination of psychotherapy and medication.

Psychotherapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most effective form of psychotherapy for treating binge eating disorder. CBT focuses on changing the thoughts and behaviors that contribute to binge eating.

Medication

There are no FDA-approved medications for treating binge eating disorder. However, certain medications may be prescribed to treat associated conditions, such as depression and anxiety. These include antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and mood stabilizers.

It’s important to note that medications should not be used as a sole treatment for binge eating disorder. Rather, they should be used in conjunction with psychotherapy as part of your binge eating help treatment.

If you or someone you know is struggling with binge eating disorder, know that binge eating help is available. There are many treatment options available that give you the binge eating help to recover from this disorder.

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