Most people over-eat every once and while, especially on holidays like Thanksgiving. Someone with binge eating disorder will over-eat daily. The thought of food is constantly on their mind to the point where it is obsessive. They don’t look at food as a source of fuel or nutrition, they see it as crutch for other problems. …show more content…
Often times, they were not even hungry in the first place. This is because when they eat excessively, they usually are not trying to satisfy a physical hunger, rather an emotional one.
Though not the case in most people, binge eating disorder can be a biological issue. The hypothalamus, which is the section of the brain that controls appetite can have trouble sending messages about hunger and fullness. There is also evidence that shows low levels of serotonin in the brain can cause compulsive eating. But in most cases, binge eating disorder is tied to psychological or emotional issues. Most people who have binge eating disorder have depression or have had depression before. Others might have impulse control or have trouble expressing their feelings and emotions. The most common reason for their …show more content…
Really, the only way to treat binge eating disorder is to develop better eating habits. Many people seek therapy, specifically Cognitive behavioral therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy helps a patient release they have a disorder. It helps them recognize their triggers and teaches them how to deal with them. It also provides tips for better nutrition and stress relief. Some therapy treatment programs have patients take medications in addition to therapy. These medications include Topamax or a type of antidepressant. There are also support groups and group therapy sessions people can attend for treatment. In some cases, people are able to treat their disorder without therapy by managing stress, eating a balanced diet, and exercising regularly. Unfortunately, binge eating disorder is not something that goes away, these people have to fight the urge to binge eat every day, much like an alcoholic has to fight the urge to drink. Though it becomes easier over time, it is something they will deal with for the rest of their