Binge eating disorder (BED) is a type of feeding and eating disorder that’s now recognized as an official diagnosis. It affects almost 2% of people worldwide and can cause additional health issues linked to diet, such as high cholesterol levels and diabetes. Examples of binge eating are:
- Sneaking a large bag of candy into your room and finishing it in secret
- Eating a whole cake in one sitting, and then feeling guilty
- Finishing three burgers, even when you’re already uncomfortably full
Feeding and eating disorders are not about food alone, which is why they’re recognized as psychiatric disorders. People typically develop them as a way of dealing with a deeper issue or another psychological condition, such as anxiety or depression. Binge eating episodes are often accompanied by feelings of shame, guilt, and a lack of control over eating behaviors.
Binge eating disorder is a type of eating disorder that is characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating. It is important to note that not everyone who engages in binge eating behavior will meet the criteria for binge eating disorder, which requires the presence of specific symptoms and impairment in daily functioning.
Tips to Help Control Binges
If you think you have binge eating disorder, work with a doctor to get well. Treatment might include counseling and, sometimes, medicine. Try these tips to avoid food binges:
- Keep a food diary. It will help you learn when you tend to binge. You can also see what was going on in your life that may have led you to do it.
- Eat regular meals and snacks throughout the day. They’ll keep your blood sugar steady, so you won’t feel hungry enough to binge.
- Portion out your food. Don’t just grab a big bag of chips and head to the couch to watch TV. Measure out one serving into a small bag or onto a plate. You’ll be less likely to eat too much if you have to get up for more.
- Think about why you’re bingeing. Are you depressed or anxious? Find another way to soothe these emotions.
If you are concerned about your eating habits or think you may be struggling with an eating disorder, it is important to seek help from a mental health professional or other qualified healthcare provider. They can help to assess your symptoms and determine the best course of treatment for you.