What are the long-term effects of binge eating disorder?
Binge eating disorder (BED) is an eating disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating. A binge is defined as eating an amount of food that is definitely larger than what most people would eat in a similar situation and is accompanied by a feeling of loss of control over eating ( American Psychiatric Association, 2013). People with BED feel that they cannot control their eating and often eat even when they are not hungry. Binge eating episodes are typically followed by feelings of guilt, shame, and depression.
The long-term effects of BED can be significant and Wide ranging. Some of the most common effects include:
Weight gain and obesity: Binge eating disorder is the most common eating disorder in the United States and is strongly linked to obesity ( National Eating Disorder Association, 2016). People with BED are more likely to be obese than those without the disorder, and the risk of obesity increases the longer someone has BED ( American Psychiatric Association, 2013).
TYPE 2 DIABETES: Binge eating disorder is also associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. In fact, people with BED are three times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes than those without the disorder ( American Psychiatric Association, 2013).
HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE: Binge eating disorder is linked to high blood pressure, which can lead to serious health problems like heart disease and stroke ( American Psychiatric Association, 2013).
UNHEALTHY EATING HABITS: People with BED often develop unhealthy eating habits, such as eating too fast or eating even when they’re not hungry. These habits can lead to further weight gain and other health problems ( American Psychiatric Association, 2013).
SOCIAL ISOLATION: Binge eating disorder can lead to social isolation. People with BED may avoid social situations because they’re afraid of being judged for their eating habits. They may also feel ashamed or embarrassed about their weight. As a result, they may withdraw from family and friends, which can lead to further feelings of isolation and loneliness ( National Eating Disorder Association, 2016).
DEPRESSION: Binge eating disorder is often accompanied by depression. In fact, people with BED are five times more likely to be depressed than those without the disorder ( American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Depression can lead to a number of other serious problems, such as substance abuse, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts.
ANXIETY: People with BED often suffer from anxiety, which can be triggered by the fear of weight gain or of being judged for their eating habits. Anxiety can also lead to further social isolation and depression ( National Eating Disorder Association, 2016).
LOW SELF-ESTEEM: People with BED often have low self-esteem, which can be caused by the shame and embarrassment associated with the disorder. Low self-esteem can also lead to social isolation and depression ( National Eating Disorder Association, 2016).
If you or someone you know is suffering from binge eating disorder, it’s important to seek professional help. Binge eating disorder is a serious condition with wide-ranging effects, but it is treatable. With the help of a therapist or other mental health professional, you can develop healthy eating habits, cope with negative emotions, and improve your self-esteem..Click here for info
What are the treatment options for binge eating disorder?
Binge eating disorder (BED) is a serious, life-threatening eating disorder characterized by recurring episodes of eating large quantities of food (often very quickly and to the point of discomfort); a feeling of loss of control during the binge; and feelings of shame, ridicule, and guilt afterwards. Treatment for BED generally includes some combination of individual, group, and/or family therapy and medical treatment. Here we will discuss some of the specific treatment options for BINGE EATING DISORDER, based on the latest research.
1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a type of therapy that helps people to change negative thoughts and behaviors. It has been found to be an effective treatment for BED, helping people to control bingeing and reduce the number of binge eating episodes.
2. Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): IPT is a type of therapy that focuses on relationships and communication. It has been found to be helpful in treating BED by helping people to communicate better, build healthier relationships, and deal with emotional issues.
3. Family-Based Therapy (FBT): FBT is a type of therapy that involves the whole family. It has been found to be an effective treatment for BED, helping family members to support and understand one another, and to work together to change negative thoughts and behaviors.
4. Medication: Several types of medication have been found to be helpful in treating BED, including antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and anti-obesity medications.
5. Self-Help: There are many self-help books and groups available for people with BED. These can be helpful in providing support and information, and in helping people to make positive changes in their thoughts and behaviors.
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