Binge-Eating is a Serious Disorder, But Many Don't Even Realise They Have It

Binge-eating disorder is a serious eating disorder out there. It occurs between 0.6 - 2-3 percent of people worldwide and may occur two to three times more frequently than anorexia nervosa.

The pattern is often accompanied by guilt, shame and irritability after eating. The person may be embarrassed about overeating but they feel a compulsion and can't resist and continue binge eating.

Symptoms may occur like eating unusually more food in a specific amount of time, eating too fast during binge episodes, eating until you are uncomfortable, and always feeling depressed, disgusted, and guilty about your eating.

The sooner you can identify the binge eating disorder (BED), the easier it is to get treated. Left unattended, it may lead to serious health problems, such as obesity and type 2 diabetes. Some mental health issues are also common, with 70 percent of people reporting depression and anxiety.

Psychological therapy sessions can be very effective in helping people stop binge eating. It helps in improving mental health conditions. In addition to this, drug treatment is also effective in reducing binge eating. But drugs lead to adverse effects such as headaches, insomnia, nausea and fatigue.

Another way in recovering from this eating disorder is by changing your relationship with food or talking to your doctor. It's important to seek treatment.

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