Common Signs of Binge Eating Disorder

If you feel that you or a loved one is suffering from binge eating disorder, be mindful of the common signs of the disorder so that you know when the best time to seek help is. People with binge eating disorder exhibit and experience several of the following symptoms weekly for periods lasting at least 3 months:

Frequent episodes of eating more than what may be considered a normal amount of food
Rapid eating
Eating until uncomfortably full
Eating large amounts of food without being physically hungry
Eating with excessive discretion due to feelings of embarrassment at the quantity of food being consumed
Feelings of guilt after overeating
Weight fluctuation, usually gain
Feelings of low self-esteem
Loss of sexual desire
Frequent dieting

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Symptoms of Binge Eating Disorder

Most people tend to overeat from time to time, or even on a regular basis. Eating large quantities of food on occasion, however, does not necessarily mean that someone has binge eating disorder. Binge eating is fundamentally different from overindulging: It’s a serious condition characterized by recurrent and uncontrollable overeating. People with the disorder often experience feelings of loss of control over their eating, overeating even when they physically feel full. Often bingeing behavior and related habits are ways of coping with unwanted feelings, stress, and anxiety.

Many people who suffer from this disorder have not acquired the proper tools to deal with negative and uncomfortable emotions in a healthy and constructive manner. People suffering from the disorder, therefore, find eating to be comforting and soothing. The binging behavior often tends to be counterproductive, as those who binge usually feel sad, guilty, or worthless after not being able to control their eating

Behavioral

Disappearance of large quantities of food in short periods of time
Evidence of empty wrappers and containers indicating consumption of large amounts of food
Eating all times throughout the day with no planned mealtimes
Periodic fasting

Emotional and Mental

Feelings of sadness, worthlessness, and shame directly preceding and following binges
Feeling dissatisfied with one’s body size
Perfectionistic tendencies

Physical

Frequent weight fluctuation
Weight gain
Hypertension
High cholesterol level
Heart disease
Joint pain
Sleep apnea

Psychological

Binge eating is often associated with depression and anxiety
People struggling with binge eating disorder often express feelings of distress and shame
Loss of control and discipline