What is Binge Eating Disorder?

If you experience times of compulsive overeating, it is typical to wonder if you have developed an eating disorder. If you have binge eating disorder, you know the extreme embarrassment that goes along with your relationship with food. Those with this type of disorder have an unhealthy eating pattern that is based on emotions. You may attempt to diet with little to no results. You may also experience a range of negative emotions associated with eating and food. If this sounds like you, you may want to consider seeking help for an eating disorder.

When you have binge eating disorder you have a an unhealthy relationship with food. This relationship is based on emotions and not the feeling of being hungry. When life becomes stressful you may turn to food to feel better and bring some sense of happiness. Your eating patterns during this time may consist of eating a large amount of food, eating quickly and/or hiding food. One way to repair this relationship is to find non food related activities that can bring you the same sense of happiness.

If you have binge eating disorder you know the vicious cycle that can occur. You may have attempted to diet after a binge eating episode occurs. These diets can be extreme, including limiting the foods that your body ineeds. Unfortunately, these diets do not work. Most diets that promise quick results fail and eventually lead to weight gain. With these types of diets you can do well at first and may even lose weight. However, your emotions will eventually come into play and a binge episode occurs again. When we binge eat and then diet, we enter into a vicious cycle of overeating and dieting. This can lead to negative emotions and lowered self esteem.

There are many negative emotions that come along with being diagnosed with a binge eating disorder. The main feeling is embarrassment. You may feel embarrassed that you do not have a normal relationship with food. You may also become depressed that you feel the need to eat. These feelings can even lead to another binge episode. There is often high anxiety that others will find out about your struggles. Many times you may hide your struggles from family and friends. It is normal to feel disgusted that you cannot negative emotions instead of overeating. Once you enter the cycle of dieting and binge eating, you may even feel like a failure that you cannot lose weight. When these emotions occur, it is best to talk with a trusted friend or family member. Allow them to be your support.

If you have read this and feel like your life is similar, it may be best to speak with a professional in order to determine your needs. Binge eating disorder is characterized by episodes of overeating. This negative relationship with food is based on emotional reactions. Many times this may lead to a cycle of eating and dieting which then leads to many negative thoughts. By learning to listen to your body's needs instead of dieting, you can overcome binge eating disorder.