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 0 Comments

When most people hear the phrase “silent killer,” they think of hypertension or heart disease. But eating disorders can be silent killers, too, especially in teens who are determined to hide it.

“A recent study published by the University of Illinois suggests that normal and underweight teenage girls who believe that they are overweight are at a significantly higher risk of developing unhealthy weight loss behaviors.” [Source: Insiders Health]

This misperception is called “body distortion” and it’s more prevalent than many adults realize. A girl who’s convinced that she’s “fat” even though she’s not will continue trying to lose weight, even when she’s too thin. And, to the best of her ability, she’s going to hide her weight loss from her parents and other loved ones, so she can keep losing.

 

Labels: teenagers, symptoms, girls

Posted By: Stefanie Hamilton 1 Comment