There are different types of eating disorders, but one of the most common and less talked about is binge eating disorder (BED). This kind of disorder can involve purging, but not always. Binge eating episodes are often followed by regret, but will be repeated time and again.
This kind of eating disorder isn't linked to one specific reason, but it could be genetic or due to some event in the past that had caused psychological damage to the patient's self-worth.
1. Emotional Eating
For people with BED, overeating comes with attached emotions. Binging is often associated with feelings of guilt, shame, and anxiety. It can also be caused by anger, stress, or depression, with these emotions resulting in binge eating episodes. If eating large quantities makes you emotionally uncomfortable, but you still feel the urge to eat, BED could be the problem.
2. Large Food Intake
Naturally, the most prominent of the 7 warning signs and symptoms of binge eating disorders is the binging. Eating large quantities of food in a short time period, followed by emotions of shame, purging, or hiding the evidence can be cause for concern. If this type of behavior is becoming regular consult with your physician as soon as possible.
3. Odd Eating Habits
Those who suffer from binge eating disorders don't like others to know how much they are eating. For this reason, they may ingest their food very quickly, throw away wrappers and food containers, and lie about how much they have eaten. Some individuals with BED will eat more than one of each meal, and continue to fill their plate long after they were full.
4. Obsession with Body Image
Some of the 7 warning signs and symptoms of binge eating disorders aren't as physically obvious. One psychological issue that is common among patients with BED is an obsession with being thin, obtaining a goal weight, or losing weight. Unfortunately, most people with binge eating disorders are overweight or obese due to the disorder.
5. Impulsive Behavior Around Food
Buying food in large quantities, sneaking out to buy food late at night when others won't notice, or eating something simply because it is available are all symptoms of this particular eating disorder. Some binge eaters will hoard food in secret places for later.
6. Avoidance
Binge eaters are often embarrassed about their disorder, which causes them to become less social, withdraw from activities that they previously enjoyed, and even become depressed. They are also known to avoid questions or conversations about eating or weight if they can help it.
7. Poor Physical Health
The final item in the 7 warning signs and symptoms of binge eating disorders is poor physical health. Aside from being overweight, most binge eaters will also have trouble sleeping properly, may experience insomnia, and could have a skin disorder, a high risk of heart disease, and type 2 diabetes.
If you are concerned that you or somebody you love is suffering from a binge eating disorder, consult your family physician. Most of the time it stems from a psychological problem and can be treated through therapeutic measures.