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Myths About Binge Eating Disorder

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A binge eating disorder is more common than anorexia or bulimia. Still, it’s essential to know the signs and symptoms if you ask yourself, “do I have a binge eating disorder?” When someone is an uncontrollable eater and has consistent episodes of eating a large quantity of food in a short period, they may be struggling with binge eating. As essential as understanding the signs, what are the myths about binge eating disorder?

Symptoms of Binge Eating

Binging is not the same as emotional or stress eating. Although the disorders share similar signs and symptoms, a binge eater will have frequent episodes, usually in secret, and feelings of remorse following the action. Common symptoms of binge eating include:

  • Eating rapidly
  • Preferring to eat alone
  • Feelings of disgust or depression
  • Eating until you are full and uncomfortable
  • Not compensating for binging with purging or exercise
  • Strong feelings of having a lack of control over yourself

Many will binge eat to help calm or distract themselves from a stressful situation or overthinking. People can keep track of their binge eating triggers by writing down how they feel in a particular situation and expressing their emotions before and after a binge.

Common Myths About Binge Eating Disorder

There are quite a few myths that need revising when it comes to binge eating. For one, binging may be seen as “no big deal.” Thanks to ASMR (autonomous sensory meridian response) trending videos, people will record themselves quickly devouring large portions of food. Society is becoming more and more desensitized to eating a large amount of food in one sitting. Binge eating results from other mental issues or emotional instability that people do not address due to using food as a coping mechanism.

Myth #1: Binge Eating Disorder Only Affects People in Larger Bodies

The actual binge eating facts do not relate only to people living in larger bodies. A proper diagnosis of the disorder depends on a person’s feelings, thoughts, and behaviors about food. In fact, people of any size can experience binge-eating episodes and suffer from expressing themselves about the frequency of the action.

Myth #2: Finding an Appropriate Weight Loss Plan Will Cure the Disorder

Binge eating disorder treatment does not need to be attached to a weight loss plan. It’s more important that body positivity is promoted and people gain new skills and learn to cope with their emotions in a healthy manner. Education is granted so patients can learn about nutrition and overall good health for the mind, body, and soul.

Myth #3: Binge Eaters Don’t Have Willpower

Many binge eaters will attempt to counterbalance their eating habits by consuming healthy food. Still, feelings of remorse and shame are felt before and after binging. Often, a person may undereat for a period before giving into food cravings and undergoing a binging episode.

Eating Disorder Treatment at Banyan Treatment Centers Philadelphia

Although there are myths about binge eating disorder, Banyan Philadelphia can give you all the facts! From bulimia nervosa treatment to bingeing and other various eating disorders, our medical staff is prepared to help you through the treatment process. Our unique therapies and programs include holistic treatment and family therapy groups.

 

Speak to a specialist today at Banyan Philadelphia by calling 888-280-4763 and getting the facts about binge eating and what treatment plan you need to reach your recovery goals!

 

Related Readings:

Can Adults Develop Eating Disorders?

Link Between Anxiety and Eating Disorders

Alyssa, Director of Digital Marketing
Alyssa, Director of Digital Marketing
Alyssa is the National Director of Digital Marketing and is responsible for a multitude of integrated campaigns and events in the behavioral health and addictions field. All articles have been written by Alyssa and medically reviewed by our Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Darrin Mangiacarne.