|
CHARACTERISTIC OF DISORDER:
1. Frequent episodes of eating what others
would consider an abnormally large amount
of food.
2. Frequent feelings of being unable to control
what or how much is being eaten.
3. Several of the following behaviors or
feelings:
Eating much more rapidly than
usual;
Eating until uncomfortably full;
Eating large amounts of food, even
when not physically hungry;
Eating alone out of embarrasment
at the quantity of food being eaten;
Feelings of disgust, depression,
or guilt after overeating.
4. Absence of purging behaviors found with
bulimia, such as fasting, vomiting, use of
diuretics or laxatives, or strenuous
exercise.
WHO IS AFFECTED
This disorder can affect persons of both genders as well as members of any ethnic group; however, women are most commonly affected. While persons with this disorder tend to be obese, normal weight people can also be affected.
WHAT CAUSES THIS DISORDER
Specific causes are still unknown, however, many persons with this disorder struggle with depression. Many people report that anger, sadness, boredom, anxiety or other psychological problems may be more common in persons with binge eating disorder. Dieting may also play a role, but it is still unclear.
COMPLICATIONS OF BINGE EATING DISORDER
Diabetes;
High blood pressure;
High cholesterol levels;
Gallbladder Disease;
Heart Disease;
Certain types of cancer;
Higher risk for depression;
Isolation; and
Absence from school, work, or social
activities.
Compiled from National Institute of Health. NIH Publications No. 94-3589. November 1993. Distributed by the Capital Region Association for Eating Disorders (CRAED), 1653 Central Avenue, c/o Colonie Community Center, Albany, NY 12205 (518) 464-9043
|