The different types of support available for people struggling with binge eating.
Binge eating disorder (BED) is a serious, life-threatening eating disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of eating large amounts of food in a short period of time followed by feelings of shame, guilt, or distress. Binge eating episodes are often associated with eating in secret, feeling out of control during the binge, and feeling disgusted with oneself afterward.
Binge eating disorder is the most common eating disorder in the United States, affecting 3.5% of women, 2.0% of men, and 1.6% of adolescents. Binge eating disorder is more common in Black and Hispanic individuals than in White individuals.
There is no one cause of binge eating disorder. However, research suggests that binge eating disorder is caused by a combination of genetic, psychological, and environmental factors.
Binge eating disorder can have serious physical and emotional consequences. Individuals with binge eating disorder are at increased risk for obesity, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and a number of other physical health problems. Binge eating disorder is also associated with anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders.
If you or someone you know is struggling with binge eating disorder, there are a number of different types of support available.
Treatment for binge eating disorder typically includes some combination of psychological therapy, medication, and nutritional counseling. Psychological therapies for binge eating disorder can include cognitive-behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, and dialectical-behavioral therapy. These therapies can help individuals with binge eating disorder to better understand and cope with their emotions, develop healthy coping and problem-solving skills, and develop a positive relationship with food.
Medications that are commonly used to treat binge eating disorder include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), and mood stabilizers. These medications can help to reduce the frequency and severity of binge eating episodes, as well as improve mood and reduce anxiety.
Nutritional counseling can help individuals with binge eating disorder to develop a healthy relationship with food and to make choices that support their physical and emotional health.
There are also a number of support groups available for individuals with binge eating disorder and their loved ones. These groups provide a safe and supportive environment in which to share experiences and learn from others who are going through similar challenges.
If you or someone you know is struggling with binge eating disorder, there is help available. There is no shame in seeking out treatment, and doing so can lead to a more fulfilling and happier life..Extra resources
How to overcome the urge to binge eat.
binge eating is characterized by episodes of uncontrolled, excessive eating. During a binge, you may eat even when you’re not hungry and continue eating until you’re uncomfortably full. Binge eating disorder is a serious condition that can lead to obesity and other health problems.
If you struggle with binge eating, you may feel ashamed, embarrassed, or helpless. But it’s important to remember that you can overcome this disorder. With treatment and self-help, you can learn to control your eating and make healthier choices.
There are a number of things you can do to overcome the urge to binge eat. First, it’s important to understand what triggers your binges. Common triggers include stress, anxiety, depression, boredom, and hunger. Once you identify your triggers, you can start to make changes.
If stress is a trigger for you, find healthy ways to manage stress. Exercise, meditation, and journaling are all great stress-busters. If anxiety or depression is a trigger, talk to your doctor about medications or therapy. And if boredom or hunger is a trigger, make sure you’re eating regular, healthy meals and snacks throughout the day.
In addition to making changes in your life, it’s also important to change the way you think about food. If you’re constantly dieting or restricting yourself, it can make binge eating worse. Instead of thinking of certain foods as “bad” or “off-limits,” try to think of them as neutral. For example, instead of saying “I can’t have that cookie,” tell yourself “I can have a cookie if I want one, but I don’t need it.”
Finally, it’s important to realize that recovery from binge eating disorder is a process, not a destination. There will be setbacks and relapses, but that doesn’t mean you’re a failure. Every day is a new opportunity to make healthy choices.
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