Symptoms of Binge Eating Disorder

It is common for many people to overeat in one sitting, but not so common for it to happen on a frequent basis, especially if the eating is done alone out of embarrassment or followed by feelings of guilt and disgust. Binge eating is one of the most common eating disorders but the least commonly spoken about. 

Recent research explores symptoms and causes of binge eating that affect millions of people around the world. Binge eating is perhaps the most common of all eating disorders. Binge eating shows similarities to that of substance abuse because the strong compulsion to consume and obsessive thoughts are characteristic of both. These feelings are then often followed by feelings of guilt and emotional angst. Is there hope for this disorder? New research gives better answers to the causes of binge eating disorder and obesity.

Neuroscientists have identified brain messengers that are involved in the feelings of hunger, feeding and satiation. These brain messengers are now the new targets to develop better treatments. Signs of binge eating disorder include frequent episodes of eating what others would consider an abnormally large amount of food along with feelings of being unable to control what or how much is being eaten. Some binge eaters make unusual concoctions of food, a symbol of their out-of-control state. A binge eater will eat much more rapidly than usual, eat until uncomfortably full, eat alone out of embarrassment at the amount of food being eaten, and undergo feelings of disgust, depression, or guilt after overeating.

Binge eating disorder is a scary and unhealthy cycle that must be broken. Episodes of binge eating often occur in persons with bulimia nervosa who will will purge, fast, or intensely exercise after an episode of binge eating. Purging, fasting, and strenuous exercise are all dangerous ways to attempt weight control.

This original article can be found at http://psychcentral.com/disorders/eating_disorders/eating_binge.htm