What is Binge Eating Disorder?

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Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is commonly known by compulsive overeating or consuming abnormal amounts of food while feeling unable to stop and at loss of control. Binge eating episodes are typically classified as occurring on average a minimum of twice per week for a duration of six months.

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Though binge eating disorder can occur in men and women of normal weight, it often leads to the development of unwanted weight gain or obesity, which can indirectly reinforce further compulsive eating.

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Men and women suffering from binge eating disorder struggle with emotions of disgust and guilt and often have a related co-morbidity, such as depression or anxiety. The negative feelings that usually accompany binge eating often lead him or her to continue to use food to cope; thus creating a vicious cycle. Managed eating disorder treatments are extremely important.

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Signs & Symptoms of Binge Eating Disorder

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As individuals suffering from binge eating disorder experience embarrassment or shame about their eating habits, symptoms may often be hidden.

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The following are some behavioral and emotional signs and symptoms of binge eating disorder:

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• Continually eating even when full

• Inability to stop eating or control what is eaten

• Stockpiling food to consume secretly at a later time

• Eating normally in the presence of others but gorging when isolated

• Experiencing feelings of stress or anxiety that can only be relieved by eating

• Feelings of numbness or lack of sensation while bingeing

• Never experiencing satiation: the state of being satisfied, no matter the amount of food consumed

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The consequences of binge eating disorder involve many physical, social, and emotional difficulties.

Some of these complications are:

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• Cardiovascular disease

• Type 2 Diabetes

• Insomnia or sleep apnea

• Hypertension

• Gallbladder disease

• Muscle and/or joint pain

• Gastrointestinal difficulties

• Depression and/or anxiety

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At Reach for Recovery, we offer Medication Assisted Treatment for patients who suffer from binge eating disorder and care coordination for behavioral modification. Vyvanse is the first and only treatment for moderate to severe Binge Eating Disorder (B.E.D.) in adults Please call us at 318-317-1238 to speak with a clinician.

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