How does binge eating disorder compare to other eating disorders?
Binge eating disorder is an eating disorder characterized by episodes of uncontrolled, excessive eating followed by feelings of shame, guilt, or distress. Binge eating disorder is similar to other eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa, in that it is characterized by a distorted body image and an unhealthy relationship with food. However, there are some key differences between binge eating disorder and other eating disorders.
For one, binge eating disorder is much more common than other eating disorders. According to the National Eating Disorders Association, binge eating disorder affects 3.5% of women, 2.0% of men, and 1.6% of adolescents in the United States. By contrast, anorexia nervosa affects 0.9% of women and 0.3% of men, while bulimia nervosa affects 1.5% of women and 0.5% of men.
Binge eating disorder is also characterized by different psychological and behavioral patterns than other eating disorders. People with binge eating disorder typically eat larger quantities of food than those with other eating disorders, and they may eat even when they are not physically hungry. Binge eating episodes are usually followed by feelings of guilt, shame, or distress, which can lead to unhealthy behaviors such as purging (through vomiting, use of laxatives, or overexercising) in an attempt to “undo” the binge.
While the psychological and behavioral patterns of binge eating disorder may be similar to other eating disorders, the disorder appears to have a different physiological basis. Research suggests that people with binge eating disorder have higher levels of the hormone ghrelin, which is associated with hunger, and lower levels of the hormone leptin, which is associated with satiety (feeling full). This difference in hormone levels may help explain why people with binge eating disorder are more prone to overeating.
Overall, binge eating disorder is a serious, complex disorder that is similar to other eating disorders in some ways, but also unique in others. If you or someone you know is struggling with binge eating disorder, it is important to seek professional help. Click here for more
What are the first steps for seeking help for binge eating disorder?
Binge eating disorder is a serious, life-threatening eating disorder that is characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating. Binge eating episodes are characterized by eating an unusually large amount of food in a discrete period of time (usually within 2 hours), a feeling of loss of control during the binge, and feelings of shame, guilt, or disgust afterward. Binge eating disorder is the most common eating disorder in the United States, affecting 3.5% of women, 2.0% of men, 1.6% of adolescents, and 0.7% of children.
The first step in seeking help for binge eating disorder is to visit a doctor or mental health professional. Binge eating disorder is a complex condition that often requires the help of a trained professional to diagnose and treat effectively.
During the initial visit, the health care provider will likely ask about your medical history and eating habits. He or she may also perform a physical exam and order blood tests to rule out other conditions that may be causing your symptoms.
If the health care provider suspects that you have binge eating disorder, he or she may refer you to a mental health specialist, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or licensed counselor.
The mental health specialist will ask you questions about your eating habits and how they’re impacting your life. He or she will also likely ask you about your family history, psychological history, and any other relevant information.
Based on this assessment, the mental health specialist will likely diagnose you with binge eating disorder and develop a treatment plan. Treatment for binge eating disorder often includes a combination of talk therapy and medication.
If you think you or someone you know may have binge eating disorder, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Early intervention is key to overcoming this disorder.
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