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Binge eating

Binge Eating or Compulsive Overeating

This disorder is often misunderstood. Some people think that those who are overweight are lazy and can't control themselves but this is a common misconception. This type of prejudice makes it difficult for someone to seek help. At Casa Palmera, we recognize the devastating effects of this illness and we can help you.

Ropes course challenge for binge eating treatment

Information about Binge Eating and Compulsive Overeating

Binge eating, also know as compulsive overeating, is an eating disorder in which a person consumes large amounts of food up to the point of uncomfortable fullness, leaving feelings of guilt. People with this disorder are driven by compulsion to keep eating.

Many resolve to stop due to guilt and poor self-image and attempt to maintain a strict diet. Unfortunately, this drastic method often backfires and results in another binge, leaving yet again feelings of shame and self-hatred. This disorder may be the most common of eating disorders. In fact, approximately 2 million Americans today suffer from compulsive overeating. For many other eating disorders, women are by far the most susceptible, for binge eating disorders, women and men are more equally affected, with about two men affected for every three women. At Casa Palmera our professional staff truly understands the medical complications and emotional suffering that this disorder causes. We can help you at Casa Palmera with our innovative treatment methods.

Signs of Binge Eating or Compulsive Overeating

Most people who suffer from compulsive overeating are overweight, although those with a normal weight can be affected at well. Many times people affected by compulsive eating have been binge eaters since childhood and use food as a way of dealing with emotions.

Common signs and symptoms:

  • Eating at a rapid pace
  • Consuming abnormally large amounts of food
  • Depression
  • Eating even when full
  • Nausea
  • Embarrassment, eating alone
  • Feelings of shame and disgust after eating
  • Loss of control over how much is eaten
  • Constantly stressing over weight
  • Frequently switching from diet to diet

The cycle of compulsive overeating is a vicious one. Treatment and hope for disease Much like those with bulimia, someone with a binge eating disorder knows that they have a problem and feels guilty as a result. Someone struggling with binge eating or compulsive overeating will often have a history with dieting. Because this is an illness and not a lack of willpower, diets alone don't work. This often leads to numerous failed attempts at dieting. This failure, poor self-image, and persistent feeling of guilt, brings about yet another binge. It is no wonder that most binge eaters suffer from depression as well. In fact, nearly half of all binge eaters are diagnosed with, or have been diagnosed with depression.

Causes of Binge Eating or Compulsive Overeating

The following are some factors that contribute to the onset of binge eating or compulsive overeating:

  • Biology may have an effect on the onset of binge eating in a person. Chemicals in the brain, metabolism, as well as certain genes may make some more susceptible to this disorder than others.
  • Psychological factors play a large role in the development of this disorder. Some people have a difficult time of handling their emotions, not knowing how to deal with anger and stress in life, and thus turn to food for relief. Another psychological factor that may have an effect on this disorder is the presence of depression or simply poor self-image.
  • Dieting is also a factor that may affect binge eating. A desire to eat can trigger a binge eating episode. For someone on a diet who skips meals or doesn’t eat enough will be more vulnerable to binge eating than someone who is eating healthy.
  • The interpersonal environment has an effect on all areas of life, and can trigger the onset of compulsive eating. Someone who had troubled relationships, or who has been sexually, emotionally, or physically abused is at-risk for this eating disorder.

Effects of Binge Eating or Compulsive Overeating

The following are some problems that can arise from binge eating or compulsive overeating:

Physical Effects

  • Obesity
  • High blood pressure and cholesterol levels
  • Heart disease, other heart problems
  • Joint problems
  • Lack of sleep
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • Gastrointestinal problems

Emotional Effects

  • Depression
  • Stress
  • Anxiety
  • Lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities
  • Low self-esteem

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