According to a new report in the journal Eating Disorders, a binge eating diagnosis is dependent upon the following factors:

• Episodes of binge eating must occur on a regular basis
• The binges mush involve large amounts of food, such as the consumption of 10,000 to 20,000 calories at one sitting
• People with the disorder feel that they have no control over their eating habits
• The eating binges should be "shrouded in shame and secrecy"
  

Risk factors for binge eating disorder include being between 40 and 60 years old; having other eating disorders; having psychological problems such as anxiety, depression, and anger; a history of sexual abuse; and certain genetic attributes.

Symptoms include weight gain, cravings for sugar, headaches, sensitivity to temperature, low self-esteem, and despair about being caught up in a cycle of overeating followed by shame and guilt.

The article's authors suggest that treatment includes cognitive behavioral therapy, self-help support groups, weight control, eating low-sugar foods, and avoiding sugar, alcohol, and caffeine.

Labels: binge eating, symptoms, risk factors

Posted By: Aspen/CRC