Binge eating is a disorder characterized by chronic overeating usually done in secrecy according to the Mayo Clinic. There can be psychological symptoms that go along with binge eating including depression and anxiety in which food is used as a way to try to bring feelings of comfort. Even if you have no obvious signs of weight gain, over eating even when you’re full could be a sign of trouble.
There are ways to avoid eating too much food. Obviously you can’t go without food as our bodies do need normal amounts of calories to function properly. Extreme measures such as putting locks on the refrigerator are impractical and absurd. Here are some suggestions for getting help that many people may not think of when you try to prevent binge eating when you get the urge to eat too much.
Triggers
Stress and other sudden changes in moods may be something that triggers the binge eating response. If you have trouble dealing with your emotions this may be a hindering factor to successfully combating the disorder.
Dieting may also be a trigger in binge eaters which can lead to a vicious cycle of deprivation and then massive amounts of eating which is never healthy. When trying to control binge eating disorder the key is to find the root cause and then deal with that first. Food in and of itself is not generally the problem.
Getting Help
Finding a way to deal with the causes of binge eating is the key to feeling better. First and foremost is to seek professional help. Get a diagnosis, get tested, and see what your doctor or even psychiatrist says that can help you. Beyond professional help there may be several things to you can do help yourself overcome this disorder.
Talking about it may be a good remedy. Let your loved ones know when you are feeling a wave of emotions or out of control feeling that may lead to binge eating. Your closest friends and family love you no matter what and your support network will be uplifting and help you no matter what. Talking about your feelings, no matter how irrational or inconvenient, may be a great help in overcoming binge eating.
Staying active and getting your blood flowing releases natural endorphins that make your body feel good. Engage in activities that you enjoy no matter what they are as long as they are healthy. Sports, exercise, yoga, knitting, writing, camping, hiking, or whatever hobby makes your mind relax and your body get moving.
Eat in regular patterns throughout the day so you feel less hungry may keep your hunger urges not be as prominent of a factor in your life. If your stomach feels less hungry when you are awake the less likely you will be prone to eat more food. Having well-balanced nutrition may also fend off the need to over eat.
Binge eating never has to be something you deal with alone. Consult with your health professionals if you feel like you have an eating disorder. This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered actual medical advice.
