Learn If You Have Binge Eating Disorder

Bing eating disorder is characterized by a loss of control over eating behaviors . The binge eater consumes unnaturally large amounts of food in a short period of time . The binge eater usually does not get involved in inappropriate weight-reducing behaviors such as exercise , vomiting or taking laxatives after a binge .

A binge is where an individual eats much larger amounts of food than most people would . Binge eating is not a response to intense hunger . A binge is usually ended by abdominal discomfort . A binge is different for all people . A person bingeing may eat 500 - 5000 calories in one sitting .

Binge eating disorder is found in about 2 percent of the general population- more often in wemon than men . Research shows that binge eating disorder occurs in about 30 percent of people participating in medically supervised weight control programs . The disorder affects Blacks as often as Whites , but it is not known how often it affects other ethnic groups .

Researchers also say that binge eating disorder is more common among competitive athletes such as swimmers or gymnasts whose bodies are regularly on public display . Affected athletes in these sports tend to compare their bodies in negative ways with those of their teammates .

Binge eating disorder can be treated . Behavioral therapy has proven effective achieving this goal . Psychotherapy has proven effective in helping to prevent the eating disorder from recurring and addressing the issues that led to the disorder . Behavioral weight loss programs should be the last resource used . The emotional and psychological issues that triggered the disorder must be worked on first . Group therapy may follow and provide ongoing support .