Beware Of Proeating Disorder Sites
Some websites promote anorexia and bulimia as acceptable and even desirable lifestyles. Teens ages 13 to 19 are the most common visitors to these sites; half of them are looking for ways to lose weight.
Many of these sites include images of thin women designed to inspire visitors . They also include weight loss advice, strategies to avoid detection by family members and links to similar sites.
While visiting pro-eating disorder sites, 96 percent of users reported learning new weight loss or purging techniques, as did 46 percent of pro-recovery site visitors.
When surfing the web, be careful with these sites and keep in mind that the information may be false.
Causes Of Binge Eating
The exact causes of binge eating disorder are not known, but you are more likely to have an eating disorder if:
- you or a member of your family has a history of eating disorders, depression, or alcohol or drug misuse
- you’ve been criticised for your eating habits, body shape or weight
- you’re too worried about being slim, particularly if you also feel pressure from society or your job, for example, ballet dancers, models or athletes
- you have anxiety, low self-esteem, an obsessive personality or are a perfectionist
- you’ve been sexually abused
Seeking Help And Treatment For Binge Eating Disorder
In dealing with this disorder, the Binge Eating Disorder Program at Remuda Ranch suggests the following:
Evaluate your beliefs about the purpose of eating.; There are two reasons to eat: nourishment and enjoyment. Food meets the bodys requirements and provides enjoyment. Both need to be present in balance. With binge eating, the potential exists for neither to be present. Often, the type of food ingested is not beneficial to the body and is not enjoyed.
Acknowledge that there may be a problem. Look closely at the behavior and ask: Am I eating for reasons other than nourishing my body or enjoyment? Then, consider what needs you are trying to meet through food.
Dont diet. Especially if overweight, individuals with binge eating may turn to dieting. This is a mistake since dieting involves restriction, which leads to feelings of deprivation, which in turn leads to bingeing.
Instead, try to reconnect with your bodys signals of hunger and fullness. If a desire to eat is present, ask yourself: Am I really hungry?
If not, try to gain understanding about why you want to eat when not hungry. Could it be loneliness, anger, frustration, or depression?
Seek help. A therapist or counselor can help you get to the whys of your eating behavior and find new ways of dealing with the emotions that underlie the behavior. Therapists who use cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques are usually the most successful.; If medical complications exist, consult a physician.
Also Check: How Do People Develop Eating Disorders
What Are The Treatment Options
The treatment plan for BED depends on the causes and severity of the eating disorder, as well as individual goals.
Treatment may target binge eating behaviors, excess weight, body image, mental health issues, or a combination of these.
Therapy options include cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal psychotherapy, dialectical behavior therapy, weight loss therapy, and medication. These may be carried out on a one-to-one basis, in a group setting, or in a self-help format.
In some people, just one type of therapy may be required, while others may need to try different combinations until they find the right fit.
A medical or mental health professional can provide advice on selecting an individual treatment plan.
Then Balance Your Blood Sugar Levels
Blood sugar drops and spikes can be a huge binge trigger. To balance your blood sugar ensure each of your meals should consist of roughly 50% complex carbohydrates, 25% proteins and 25% fats.
If you stick to this simple ratio, it will gradually stabilize your blood sugar levels and reduce your sugar cravings. Over time, you can discover a different ratio that works best for you and allows you to feel full for longer.
Read Also: How To Tell If You Have Postpartum Depression
The Dangers Of Eating Disorders
Weve all done it used food at one time or another to comfort ourselves. Or eating that extra portion when we were already full and regretted it later. We may tell ourselves that next time well take control of our food instead of letting our food control us. We might change our eating habits or not worry if we gain a pound or two.
But for people with an eating disorder, their relationship with food is different and the consequences are far more serious. Eating disorders are among the deadliest of mental illnesses, second only to opioid overdose. An eating disorder such as anorexia can affect every organ system in the body. Teens and young adults with anorexia have 10 times the risk of dying compared to their peers.
The Changing Face of Eating Disorders
Eating disorders are more widespread than you might think. National surveys estimate that 9 percent of the U.S. population 20 million women and 10 million men will have an eating disorder at some point in their lives. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic has only made this situation worse. Hotline calls to the National Eating Disorders Association;have increased 70 to 80 percent in recent months.
Types of Eating Disorders
Symptoms of Eating Disorders
People with eating disorders can show a variety of different signs and symptoms. Some of the common symptoms include:
- Frequent dieting and preoccupation with weight, food, and calories.
- Noticeable fluctuations in weight.
Avoid Intermittent Fasting If You Are At Risk For An Eating Disorder
Intermittent fasting has a high association with bulimia nervosa, and as a result, individuals who are susceptible to an eating disorder should not undergo any diet associated with fasting. Risk factors for an eating disorder include having a family member with an eating disorder, perfectionism, impulsivity and mood instability.
You May Like: Are Eating Disorders Anxiety Disorders
Different Eating Disorders How To Spot Them And Why They’re So Dangerous
Eating disorders have the highest mortality rate out of any mental health disorder. Even more than extreme depression. A common misconception about eating disorders is that they only affect women, but the reality is that 15% of people with diagnosed eating disorders are men. This doesnt seem like a large amount but its ascertained that many men dont come forward because of stigmas. Only 1 in 10 people with an eating disorder seek treatment so whether youre a worried parent, a concerned friend or have suspicions about your own behavior, these are the different eating disorders and the signs to watch out for.
What Is A Binge Eating Disorder
With Binge Eating Disorder , people experience recurring episodes of overeating that happen in a rapid manner and short timeframe. These episodes usually occur when they are not hungry and can extend past the point of a person reaching extreme fullness. People who struggle with this disorder may feel as if they have no control over their eating habits during an episode, where they cant stop eating, cant decide what to eat or cant determine how much they should be eating.;
If you are struggling with Binge Eating Disorder, it is normal for your binge eating episodes to be marked by significant distress followed by feelings of shame, guilt and depression. These episodes happen, on average, at least once a week for three months or longer. Unlike other forms of eating disorders, people who have Binge Eating Disorder do not usually use inappropriate or unhealthy weight control tactics such as fasting or purging to counteract their binges.
Individuals with Binge Eating Disorder may live in higher weight bodies, however,; anyone at any weight may struggle with the disorder. For those at higher weights, cultural weight stigma and bullying experiences may play a significant role in the development of Binge Eating Disorder, as well as co-occurring mood disorders and addictions.
Read Also: What Can Schizophrenia Do To You
How Our Helpline Works
For those seeking addiction treatment for themselves or a loved one, the PsychGuides.com helpline is a private and convenient solution.
We are standing by 24/7 to discuss your treatment options. Our representatives work solely for AAC and will discuss whether an AAC facility may be an option for you.
Our helpline is offered at no cost to you and with no obligation to enter into treatment. Neither PsychGuides.com nor AAC receives any commission or other fee that is dependent upon which treatment provider a visitor may ultimately choose.
For more information on AACs commitment to ethical marketing and treatment practices, or to learn more about how to select a treatment provider, visit our About AAC page.
If you wish to explore additional treatment options or connect with a specific rehab center, you can browse top-rated listings or visit SAMHSA.
How A Diet Leads To An Eating Disorder In 10 Steps
Stage 1: You restrict your food intake.
There are many reasons why people choose to restrict their food intake.These reasons include:
- Avoiding major food groups like carbohydrates or fats based on the misguided belief that it is healthy to do so.
- Avoiding specific foods or, on rare occasions, entire food groups due to food allergies and intolerances.
- Embarking on restrictive detox programs due to the assumption that they are beneficial to ones overall health.
- A direct attempt to lose weight .
Stage 2: You ignore your hunger pangs.
When your body is deprived of food, you start to feel hungry.
Hunger is simply your bodys way of informing you that its energy supplies are running low and need to be replenished.
For most of us, hunger can be described as an empty, irritating, insecure feeling.
If you are actively restricting your food intake, you might start to ignore your hunger pangs. As your body fights back with hunger, you fight back with denial and so the war against yourself begins.
Stage 3: You hit a plateau.
In the beginning, most diets do lead to some weight loss .
However, after a certain point, most people hit a weight loss plateau. This means that your weight refuses to budge any further despite the fact that you keep on restricting your food intake.
Why does this happen?
Well, in response to restriction, your body slows down its basal metabolic rate or BMR. As a result, it expends less energy so that it can survive on a smaller amount of calories.
Read Also: How To Stop Separation Anxiety In Puppies
Dangers & Side Effects Of Binge Eating Disorder
Binge Eating Disorder can cause a number of serious physical, emotional and social health complications. Thats why early intervention is extremely important. The following are just some of the dangers of BED:
- Type II Diabetes
- Joint and muscle pain
- Sleep apnea
It is extremely important to seek treatment if you or a loved one is experiencing any of the above side effects. The Alliance is here to help. Connect with us at Findedhelp.comto find eating disorder treatment options near you today.
Understanding Binge Eating Disorder
Binge eating is a serious disorder that affects 3-5% of American men and women, making this eating disorder three times more common than anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa combined .
Binge eating involves consuming a great deal of food, in an uncontrolled and/or rapid manner, and eating beyond the point of fullness. Binge eating is not motivated by physiological hunger.
It is driven by psychological issues, such as fear of failure or rejection, unmet expectations, or feeling inadequate.; Binges may be spontaneous or planned. No purging is involved, but there may be sporadic fasting or repeat dieting.
Binges may be spontaneous or planned. No purging is involved, but there may be sporadic fasting or repeat dieting. Binge eating disorder is typically diagnosed when binge eating episodes occur, on average, at least once a week for three months . But even with less frequency, binge eating can be a serious problem.
Don’t Miss: What Phobia Is Weather Related
Physical Effects Of Binge Eating
Binge eating is cyclical, rotating from binge eating episodes to restrictive dieting that ultimately leads an individual back to bingeing. Binge eating is the most common type of eating disorder in the United States, despite being lesser known than anorexia and bulimia. Although binge eating lacks the compensatory behaviors that characterize other eating disorders, it is equally as serious. Binge eating is not a choice, a phase, or a lack of willpower. Binge eating can affect anyone, regardless of age, race, gender, or any other demographic categorization. It is a complex, serious mental illness that requires professional treatment. While those struggling with binge eating are often at a higher weight than average, this is not always the case. The more frequent bingeing episodes are, the more severe the illness becomes. As bingeing increases, individuals may begin to experience physical symptoms that negatively impact their life. While these symptoms are severe, if treated promptly, they can be reversed.
Dermatological Effects
Gastrointestinal Effects
Endocrine System Effects
Binge eating disorder may cause individuals to have hypertension . Common risk factors of high blood pressure include being overweight and having diabetes, conditions which are sometimes seen in those suffering from binge eatingalthough it is important to note not all individuals struggling with binge eating live in larger bodies.;
Binge Eating Disorder Facts And Statistics
- BED is the most common eating disorder in the United States.1,6
- People from all cultures and demographics are affected by BED.1
- BED affects 3.5% of adult women and 2% of adult men.8
- About 60% of people who suffer from BED are women.1
- BED affects 2.3% of adolescent females and 0.8% of males.8
- For women, BED typically starts between the ages of 18 and 29.6
- For men, BED typically starts between the ages of 45 and 59.6
- As many as 30% of women enrolled in weight management programs may have BED.7
You May Like: Is Indica Or Sativa Better For Anxiety
Symptoms Of Binge Eating Disorder
There are a number of signs and symptoms that suggest someone might have the condition and needs to seek help.The two key features of binge eating disorder are:;
- eating a very large amount of food in a short period of time
- feeling a sense of loss of control while eating .
These episodes occur frequently, and involve portions of food larger than would simply be considered overeating.;
Why Are Eating Disorders Dangerous
Medical ComplicationsEating disorders can do a lot of damage to your health. People with eating disorders often dont get the nutrients their bodies need to stay healthy and work properly. For example, people with eating disorders are at risk of heart or kidney failure leading to death if they are not treated.
The harder I held on to the food, or lack of it, the faster I lost myself. I could see nothing but ED. I knew nothing but ED and I just couldnt stop. As my body began to failas I began to failI believed with all of my being I was a failure. ~ Melanie
Some symptoms of anorexia nervosa are:
- thin, weak bones
- hair and nails that break easily
- dry and yellowish skin
- fine hair growing all over the body
- low iron levels and weak muscles
- constipation
- low blood pressure, slowed breathing and pulse
- drop in body temperature, feel cold all the time
- lack of energy
Some symptoms of bulimia nervosa are:
- sore throat
- swollen glands in the neck and under the jaw
- heartburn
- pain in the stomach and intestine
- kidney failure
- dehydrated
People who try to get rid of calories after they eat by throwing up will have many of these symptoms.
People with binge-eating disorder often binge on foods that are high in sugar, fat or salt. This kind of diet can lead to weight gain, and some people with BED are overweight or obese. As a result, people with BED are at risk of developing:
- type 2 diabetes
- digestive problems
- heart problems
Read Also: Is There A Cure For Bipolar 2
Lack Of Scientific Data
The thought behind intermittent fasting is that after the body is depleted of carbohydrates, it starts to burn fat. This starts to occur around 12 to 24 hours after starvation. Therefore, starving the body of food for 12 to 24 hours will potentially lead to weight loss which can improve health. However, most of the studies done on this topic have been performed on animals over a short period and have measured glucose levels rather than long-term health outcomes.
Yes, it is possible to lose calories, fat and weight from this popular diet. However, it is also possible to quickly gain the weight back, develop low energy stores which can result in a depressed mood, have problems sleeping and even develop organ damage if the fasting is extreme.
The following are reasons why individuals should avoid intermittent fasting:
Depression And Binge Eating
Many people with binge eating disorder suffer from depression. They also have higher levels of anxiety than normal-weight or obese people without BED, and higher levels of both current and lifetime major depression.1
Behavioral problems are also common among people with binge eating disorder. They may:
- Abuse alcohol or other drugs.
- Act impulsively.
- Feel disconnected from their community.4
Additionally, personality disorders, including bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder, are associated with BED.4
Read Also: Do You Have Social Phobia
Psychological Symptoms Of Binge Eating Disorder
Psychological signs and symptoms can include:;
- preoccupation or obsession with eating, food or body image
- sensitivity to comments about food, dieting, exercise or body image
- feelings of shame, guilt and self-loathing, especially after a binge eating episode
- feelings of extreme distress, sadness and anxiety, especially after a binge eating episode
- a distorted body image or extreme dissatisfaction with body shape
- low self-esteem, depression, anxiety or irritability.
What To Expect With Intermittent Fasting
- You will most likely notice your stomach is grumbling during fasting periods, primarily if you are used to constant grazing throughout the day.
- Fasting may also lead to an increase in the stress hormone, cortisol, which may lead to even more food cravings.
- Overeating and binge eating are two common side effects of intermittent fasting.
- Intermittent fasting is sometimes associated with dehydration because when you do not eat, sometimes you forget to drink. For good health, it is essential to actively stay hydrated throughout the day by drinking, on average, three liters of water.
- You will most likely feel tired because your body is running on less energy than usual, and since fasting can boost stress levels, it can also disrupt your sleep patterns. It is crucial to adopt a healthy, regular sleep pattern and stick to it so you can feel rested on an everyday basis.
- The same biochemistry that regulates mood also regulates appetite with nutrient consumption affecting the activity of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin. Fasting could play a role in anxiety and depression.
- Deregulating your appetite may do the same to your mood and therefore you will most likely feel irritable on occasions when you are fasting.
Read Also: How To Develop An Eating Disorder