Binge Eating Disorder: A Common Issue Among Obese Individuals

Publicado September 2, 2024

If you find yourself eating despite feeling full or satisfied, repeatedly consuming large meals, eating your family’s leftovers, you may be experiencing a condition known as Binge Eating Disorder (BED), which is both underrecognized and prevalent among people with obesity.

Binge Eating Disorder affects both men and women of all ages globally, with estimates suggesting that around 40% of individuals with obesity may suffer from it.

Characterized by consuming large quantities of food in a short period and often eating rapidly (sometimes without chewing), BED is typically associated with high-calorie foods such as pizzas, fried chicken, cakes, chocolates, desserts, ice cream, and meats.

How to Identify Binge Eating Disorder

People with BED often lose control over their eating habits and struggle to stop, leading to significant discomfort or stomach pain, acid reflux, burping, or even nausea and vomiting.

Episodes of binge eating can be accompanied by family and relationship issues, feelings of rejection, and challenges in work and social settings.

Individuals may eat alone or hide their eating behaviors to avoid criticism or reprimand from family or close acquaintances.

After eating, negative emotions such as anger, sadness, guilt, or distress often arise, creating a vicious cycle where these feelings lead to further binge eating in response to frustration.

Many of those affected have a history of numerous failed diets and weight loss attempts.

If you recognize these behaviors in yourself, we recommend seeking help from multidisciplinary obesity groups where you can find professionals in psychiatry, psychology, and nutrition.

These specialists can provide information on effective treatments for BED, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, medications, and tailored nutritional plans.

For more information on Binge Eating Disorder, you can consult resources from the World Health Organization (WHO).

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