For most of us eating is a pleasure. But this is not true with people suffering from binge-eating disorders. For them food is a perennial source of stress and anxiety. Though a recent recognition, binge eating is the most common form of eating disorder.
We all come across occasional overeating, but for people suffering from binge-eating disorder, overeating comes in a new incarnation.
When upset reach for a snack Binge-eating and emotional eating go together. Instead of acknowledging emotions, they prefer to swallow it down with food.
Emotions act as trigger factors to start the eating spree. Feeling of depression, loneliness, anxiety or stress can precipitate. Even eating a small serving of a forbidden food can trigger a binge. Common culprits are pastries, ice creams and high fat snacks.
Tomorrow never comes
It is said that tomorrow never comes. Binge-eaters wolf down large amounts of food in a hurry and fell a loss of control, to stop their devouring of food. They eat till point it hurts, more than twice a week, usually alone, to hide their emotions and do not speak of their overeating to family and friends.
For hours feeling of guilt and shame overpower them. Unlike bulimics they do not purge through throwing up, or overuse of laxatives.
Health hazards
Though, not necessarily obese, binge-eaters are predisposed to obesity and consequently to diseases as such health problems, including type2 diabetes, hypertension, degeneration joint disease, heart disease and even certain cancers. They may suffer from weight fluctuations, and lowered self-esteem.
When bingeing strikes
When bingeing strikes, follow these tips:-
- Acknowledge your emotions.
- Share with a friend. Take some precautions.
- Get enough rest.
- Learn relaxation techniques like deep breathing.
- Banish high calories snacks.
- keep low calories nutritious fares like fruits, puffed rice.
- Make meal times special and have your grub at the dining table.
- Leave binge environment when frustrated or upset.
Treatment
There are many treatment options, as example:-
- Counseling
- Therapy
- Diet and nutrition advice
- Access to support groups
- Anti depressant medications like Cymbalta seem to help.
Conculsion – We all come across occasional overeating, but for people suffering from binge-eating disorder, overeating come in a new incarnation.