What physical signs may indicate a person has a problem with compulsive overeating?
Compulsive overeating is an unhealthy eating disorder that is often the result of underlying emotional issues, such as depression or anxiety. It is characterized by consuming large amounts of food even when not hungry, exercising extreme portion control, and experiencing feelings of guilt, shame, and dissatisfaction afterwards. Unfortunately, this type of disorder is often accompanied by a number of physical signifiers that can indicate if a person has a problem with compulsive overeating.
The most common physical signs of compulsive overeating include weight gain, bloating, and an increase in abdominal fat. Those affected by the disorder often rapidly gain excess weight, due to the frequent and excessive eating, that can be particularly evident in a person’s midsection and face. Furthermore, the bloating that occurs as a result of binge eating can lead to the body taking on a different shape, as the stomach distends after the overconsumption of food. This can further be seen in a person’s clothing, due to the sudden need to buy larger size garments and jeans as the body’s shape changes.
Other physical signs include a weakened and worn cardiovascular system, as well as a weakened immune system which can lead to a plethora of physical symptoms being experienced. This is due to the unhealthy nature of the food that is being consumed, as well as the fact that it is often consumed at an alarming rate and without proper digestion taking place. Furthermore, the excessive food intake often leads to a lack of energy and feelings of lethargy, as well as feelings of intense guilt and anxiety following the overeating.
Moreover, the effects of compulsive overeating can lead to metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance and high cholesterol and triglyceride levels. These can all lead to an increased risk of type two diabetes, as well as heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers. Other signs include a general slowdown in metabolism and digestion which can lead to acid reflux and constipation, amongst other gastrointestinal issues.
Finally, psychological signs can also manifest themselves alongside the physical symptoms. These include an obsession with food, a distorted view of body image, an intense fear of gaining weight, and finally an intense desire to eat despite being hungry, these are all symptoms that may indicate someone is a victim of compulsive overeating.
Unfortunately, compulsive overeating is an incredibly difficult disorder to detect in others, due to the vast array of physical and psychological signs that accompany it. With that being said, it is important to stay vigilant, as any of the aforementioned symptoms could indicate that someone is struggling with this unhealthy disorder. Ultimately, if a person is indeed suffering from compulsive overeating, it is important that they seek professional help and begin the steps of recovery. Full Article
What are the 11 health risks of compulsive overeating?
Compulsive overeating is a serious condition that can cause significant physical, emotional and mental health issues. While most people are familiar with anorexia, bulimia and other eating disorders, far fewer understand the sometimes devastating health risks associated with compulsive overeating or “binge eating disorder”. If an individual has a pattern of unrestrained eating, repetitive binging or emotional eating, there can be a wide range of negative health consequences.
Compulsive overeating has been classified as an eating disorder by the American Psychiatric Association since 2013, but the habit can still go unrecognized and untreated in many cases. In addition to the emotional distress that comes with binge eating, it can cause damaging physical issues such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke, gallbladder disease, gallstones, and sleep apnea.
1. Increased Weight: This is the most obvious—and ironically, perhaps the most difficult—health consequence of compulsive overeating. As binging often occurs with a pattern of indiscriminate food choices, weight gain is often rapid and waistlines quickly expand.
2. Increased Risk for Certain Cancers: People who excessively eat fatty foods or processed foods are at a higher risk for certain types of cancer. Cancers such as pancreatic, colorectal, and endometrial cancer, can all be linked to compulsive overeating.
3. Heart Disease: Cardiovascular issues, such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and heart disease, are all associated with obesity, which is a common result of compulsive overeating.
4. Type 2 Diabetes: Excess eating can cause the body to be unable to effectively regulate glucose levels, leading to an increased chance of developing type 2 diabetes. Additionally, those who already have diabetes can experience an exacerbation of symptoms due to their overeating habits.
5. Stroke: Eating too much and having an unhealthy weight increase your chances of having a stroke due to an increase in bad cholesterol and a decrease in good cholesterol.
6. Gallbladder Disease and Gallstones: Gallbladder issues can arise as a result of poor eating habits that lead to obesity, which puts pressure on the gallbladder, leading to discomfort and pain.
7. Liver Disease: Eating too much of the wrong foods may lead to fat deposits, affecting the proper functioning of the liver and leading to associated liver diseases.
8. Acid Reflux Disease: People who eat too much can suffer from regular indigestion, bloating, heartburn, abdominal pain and nausea. These symptoms, when prolonged, can develop into more serious conditions such as acid reflux disease.
9. Sleep Apnea: Weight gain that comes with compulsive overeating may also increase the risk of developing sleep apnea, a condition in which breathing is disrupted while sleeping. Left untreated, this can be fatal.
10. Depression: Uncontrolled eating, may also lead to feelings of guilt, embarrassment, and low self-esteem. This can, in turn, lead to depression, anxiety and social isolation.
11. Poor Immune System: Too much eating can lead to an inability to fight off infections, diseases, and illnesses. People who overeat are more likely to ignore healthy nutrition and physical activity, making them more susceptible to developing colds, flus and other illness.
Though compulsive overeating can have serious health risks, the most important step is to find the right help. The right treatment plan can help you become aware of the triggers that lead to your unhealthy eating behaviors, and learn how to properly manage your weight and food intake. When faced with compulsive overeating, a responsible individual should consult a doctor or mental health professional. Ultimately, it’s important to remember that help is available and that everyone has the opportunity to start living a healthier lifestyle.
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