Binge Eating Disorder

Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is a type of severe illness that requires professional treatment. It is characterized by an unhealthy relationship with food, which can result in physical and psychological problems. People of all ages and backgrounds can be affected by BED. The causes of BED are unknown, but research suggests that there are genetic, cultural, and social factors that contribute to its development.

BED can be diagnosed by a physician or a psychiatrist, who may ask questions and use specially designed interview tools. They will also recommend a number of treatments to help you recover. These include cognitive behavioral therapy, antidepressants, counseling, and medical treatment. For some people, an inpatient hospital stay may be needed for medical stabilisation and nutritional rehabilitation.

BED can be characterized by a number of symptoms, but the most common are: a loss of control over eating behavior; a need to eat a large amount of food in a short period of time; and an unusual feeling of disgust after consuming a large amount of food. BED can develop at any weight or height, and can occur in both men and women. In fact, up to two-thirds of people with binge eating disorder are clinically obese. This means that BED is often accompanied by weight-related comorbidities such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Symptoms of BED can affect your self-worth, and can increase the risk of suicide, depression, and other mood disorders.

There are several possible causes of BED, but researchers believe that an individual’s impulsivity and reward sensitivity are predisposing factors for developing the illness. Genetic studies of BED are still in their early stages, but preliminary data suggests that a person’s neurotransmitter gene may play a role in developing the condition.

Although a BED diagnosis may be suspected by anyone, it is recommended that individuals seek medical attention as soon as possible. Several studies have shown that it is possible to recover from eating disorders with community-based treatment. However, for some individuals, the need for inpatient treatment may exist, especially if the disorder is severe.

Individuals with BED may experience a wide range of symptoms, including: stress, anxiety, depression, headaches, digestive issues, and even suicidal thoughts. They may also experience a variety of other mental disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, impulsivity, or substance abuse.

Fortunately, there are effective treatments for BED, including pharmacotherapy, pharmacotherapy for weight management, and dialectical behavior therapy. Dialectical behavior therapy focuses on emotion regulation, and has been proven to reduce symptoms of BED and other co-occurring disorders.

During a binge, you eat a large amount of food and then you may fast between binges. A binge isn’t a pleasurable experience, and you might be embarrassed about your binge, causing you to avoid revealing your binge. While it is not uncommon for people to skip meals while they are binge eating, this is not a normal practice.

BED is a serious illness, and it is important for sufferers to be educated about its symptoms. Early intervention is key to improving your health and quality of life.