Binge Eating Disorder – How to Recognize It
The term “binge eating disorder” (also known as “weight-loss anorexia nervosa”) refers to an inability to control over eating that can eventually result in serious health complications and the death of the individual if not treated. Binge eating disorders can occur on a casual basis, but more often than not they begin to become a problem around middle age. Early signs of this problem include:
* An intense fear of gaining weight – for example, a young woman may be afraid to go to a ballgame because she might put on too much weight and look unattractive. * Excessive weight gain – especially around the middle and stomach areas. * Feeling depressed, hopeless or guilty about being overweight. * Feeling embarrassed about the way one’s body looks when not dieting.
* A low tolerance for insulin, which is needed to metabolize glucose and turn it into energy. When the insulin level drops after eating a large amount of food and returning to a diet that is rich in carbohydrates, the individual may experience symptoms of insulin resistance, which is one of the precursor conditions for developing a bingeing eating disorder. Insulin resistance can develop from chronic type II diabetes or from the use of certain medications such as prednisone, acetyclovir, or penicillin.
* A history of depression, lack of self-esteem, or being overweight and self-conscious. * Sleep disturbances such as restless sleep talking. * Eating alone in bed for the first time, without a recipe for what to eat or someone to share it with. * Being aware that binging and other similar eating disorders can often begin in an everyday relationship by forming a comfort zone where they feel safe and comfortable, such as at home. Feeling trapped or unhappy in this situation can lead to serious emotional problems later on in life.
While many people are unable to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight for an extended period of time due to various factors, it can be difficult for others to cut back or stop binge eating disorders at the onset of weight loss. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, consult your doctor to find out whether or not it is possible for you to lose weight and keep it off. Also, if you’re experiencing any of the above difficulties, speak to your primary care physician or a registered dietitian regarding options available to help you eat healthier and avoid overeating. Even if you’re able to lose some weight and keep it off, it’s very important to eat a balanced diet and engage in physical activity on a regular basis in order to maintain overall health and a healthy weight.
When you eat too much sugar or carbohydrates, your blood sugar will rise above normal levels and you’ll experience bouts of insulin resistance. This insulin resistance is what leads to obesity, type II diabetes, heart disease, cancer, stroke, sleep disorders such as insomnia or memory problems, and more. To best combat this eating disorder, it is best to seek the advice of both a dietician and a registered nutritionist to find the right combination of foods that will help you eat healthier and lose the extra weight.