Binge eating happens when you eat larger amounts of food than most people would eat in a certain period of time. There is also a sense of having a lack of control over eating during the binge-eating episode.
This condition is sometimes called “compulsive overeating.” It can lead to a variety of unhealthy side effects, including:
For many of us, the occasional “binge” is not a big deal. For example, maybe you’re busy during the day, so you skip lunch and eat too much for dinner.
But for people who chronically binge eat, the habit can be hard to control. It often comes with feelings of guilt and unhappiness.
Like most eating disorders, these actions can be brought on by stress, anxiety, and depression. Episodes of binge eating can sometimes offer temporary relief from these feelings.
Understanding Binge Eating Disorders
While it might be normal to overeat from time to time, a binge eating disorder can be more serious. Signs that you have a binge eating disorder include:
- Eating alone because you are embarrassed about how much you eat.
- Eating because you are sad, angry, lonely, or bored.
- Eating large amounts of food even when you don’t physically feel hungry.
- Eating much more rapidly than normal.
- Eating until you are uncomfortably full.
- Feeling disgusted with oneself or depressed afterward.
For people with this disorder, episodes typically occur once a week for at least three months.
Develop a Plan for Your Binge Eating Disorder
Don’t get discouraged after a binge. Instead, learn from it by developing a plan that will help you control your eating habits.
Begin by figuring out what causes you to overeat. Then, set measurable goals for yourself and keep track of your progress by writing in a journal. Make a list of pros and cons, describing how you feel after a binge-eating episode. Keep that list handy to prevent yourself from binge eating in the future.
Managing Stress
For many people, stress and anxiety bring about binge-eating episodes. Finding other ways to manage stress can help you feel better about yourself and keep you from binge eating in the future.
Common ways to reduce stress include:
- Adopting a hobby.
- Exercising.
- Reading.
- Talking to a friend or family member.
Getting Help for Binge Eating
If these techniques aren’t helping or you think you could have a more serious eating disorder, talk to your doctor right away. Early treatment can prevent binge eating from becoming a more serious disorder.
Learn more by visiting the UPMC Western Behavioral Health Center for Eating Disorders webpage or calling 412-246-6390.
Editor's Note: This article was originally published on , and was last reviewed on .