The most common eating disorder in the United States – binge eating disorder – can lead to obesity and serious health issues. Recognizing the signs of the disorder is the first step toward effective treatment.

Binge eating disorder is when someone often eats large amounts of food in a short time. It's also called compulsive overeating. A person with binge eating disorder feels out of control about how much they eat. This disorder is not the same as bulimia. People with binge eating disorder don’t purge the excess food by vomiting, laxative abuse or diuretic abuse.

Symptoms

People with binge eating disorder often:

• Eat large amounts of food at one time, often junk food, to reduce stress and relieve anxiety.
• Don't stop eating until they are uncomfortably full.
• Feel embarrassed and guilty about how much food they are eating.
• Have a history of weight gains and losses.
• Have more trouble losing weight and keeping it off than people with other serious weight problems.

Treatment

Eating disorders can be treated successfully. But the answer isn't as simple as changing eating habits. This is because eating disorders are about much more than food. They are caused by emotional issues that must be addressed. Therapy is a key part of treating and managing eating disorders. Some people may also be prescribed medicines, such as antidepressants, to help overcome an eating disorder. Those with binge eating disorder may sometimes need appetite suppressants to help manage their condition.

There isn’t one treatment that works for all eating disorders. Treatment will depend on the results of physical and emotional assessments. It will be different for each person.

Binge eating may make it hard to live a normal life. You may miss work or school to binge eat. You also may feel depressed, guilty or ashamed. As a result, you may try to hide your problem from others. But it’s hard to deal with binge eating on your own. That’s why it can help to talk with your healthcare provider. Working together, you can find ways to control your eating. Don't be discouraged if your first attempt to talk with a provider is not successful. Try other providers until you find a good fit.

Source: The Staywell Company, LLC