The Characteristics of Binge Eating Disorder

Binge eating is much more than simply eating too much and is a problem that can take over a person's life if they allow it to. Many health care professionals are only now beginning to understand the characteristics of binge eating disorder and how it is fast becoming one of the most popular forms of eating disorder.

Unlike anorexia and bulimia, those who are binge eaters are usually overweight. More and more people around the world are becoming obese and one reason may be because of binging. If a person is educated about this disorder, then perhaps it can be avoided.

What is binge eating?

Binging is when people eat excessive amounts of food. Consistent and compulsive overeating is the main characteristic of binge eating disorder and sufferers tend to eat even when they are not hungry. These binges are typically more than what most people would consider regular amounts of food in one sitting. Usually, an episode can last for up to two hours. But, this is a fairly new eating disorder to be diagnosed and, as yet, not all is known about this sickness. Experts want to categorize this under bulimia, but the difference is that those who binge, do not try to get rid of the excess calories by inducing vomiting.

Even though not much is known about binge eating, one thing is for sure. Those who binge have certain behavioral issues that need to be addressed. Emotional triggers may send them to cupboards. Feelings of anger, sadness, or stress may cause them to reach out for food to find comfort and solace. For those who are considered binge eaters, they will eat until they experience torment. Another sign to be aware of is when a person is consistently dieting but not losing any weight. They may even claim to be on a diet and start to gain more weight. Also, if a person is seen hoarding food, then this might be a sign of binge eating. Of course, as with any eating disorder, a person may experience depression about their weight and self-image.

While more research is needed to answer all questions about binge eating, one thing is for certain. Binging is an eating disorder that is spreading like the plague all across the world. In a binge eater's quest to find comfort, they are willing to do almost anything, even eating until they are in physical pain and then hiding it from the world. Binge eating is a real disorder that is quickly becoming more well-known than anorexia and bulimia.