binge eating is a fairly common and often misunderstood eating disorder. It can affect people of any age, gender, or social class.
binge eating is characterized by consuming large amounts of food, often secretly or in isolation. This is not behavior caused by hunger. It is driven by emotional factors such as stress, sadness, boredom, or anxiety.
One of the main signs of this condition is the inability to restrain oneself despite feeling full. This is followed by regret, self-hatred, and disappointment. This causes additional stress, and this stress further intensifies the manifestation of the disorder. As a result, a vicious cycle is created, which is difficult to break free from.
How do Bulimia and binge eating Differ?
Bulimia and binge eating may appear similar at first glance, but there is a significant difference between them. People with bulimia engage in compensatory actions after eating, such as purging procedures, excessive exercise, or starvation. During binge eating, such actions do not occur, which over time leads to corresponding physical and psychological changes.
symptoms and signs:
- Eating much faster than normal.
- Eating until feeling uncomfortably full.
- Consuming large amounts of food without feeling hunger.
- Feeling discomfort or shame because of eating.
- Experiencing guilt, sadness, or anxiety after eating.
Why does binge eating develop?
The following factors may influence the development of emotional eating:
Emotional tension: Many people use food to relieve emotional stress.
Biological factors: Chemical changes in the brain, such as a lack of dopamine.
Strict diets: Strict diets are characterized by cycles of restriction and overeating.
Social influence: The standardisation of “ideal body shapes” promotes the development of unhealthy eating behaviours.
Effects of binge eating
Uncontrolled eating can affect both physical and emotional health. It increases the risk of obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and gastrointestinal problems. From an emotional standpoint, it often leads to low self-esteem, depression, and anxiety.
treatment
Therapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is considered the most effective method, as it helps individuals change their thoughts and behaviors related to food.
Medications: Certain medications help regulate mood and appetite.
Support groups: Connecting with others who have similar experiences.
Consultation with a nutritionist: Helps in creating a balanced eating plan.
summary
Emotional eating is not a lack of willpower or discipline;
it is a psychological disorder that requires understanding and treatment.
By raising awareness and reducing stigma, we can help those who are struggling with this issue.
In many cases, involvement of a specialist (psychologist, psychiatrist) leads to good outcomes.
Author: Elene Khomeriki
Editors: Guga Sikharulidze