Why Do Binge Eaters Gain Weight?

People with binge eating disorder (BED) have distorted attitudes about eating, body shape and weight. BED sufferers will gain weight because they take in more calories than they expend and consume large amounts of food over a short period.

Identification

• Binge eating is categorized by uncontrolled eating binges at least twice a week for a period of at least 6 months. People with BED eat large amounts of food when not physically hungry and often eat in secret because of feelings of embarrassment over the amount he or she is eating.

Considerations

• Binge eaters do not stop eating when they are full. Unlike the eating disorder bulimia nervosa, BED sufferers don't use laxatives or purge their food as a way to control weight. They are usually overweight or obese. They may try to diet, usually by using fad or extremely unhealthy diets, which are ineffective or result in the lost weight returning.

Research

• Researchers at the Harvard-affiliated McLean Hospital in Belmont, Massachusetts, estimate that 1 to 5 percent of the American population is affected by this disorder. Most are women.

Side Effects

• This condition is also known as compulsive overeating. Besides weight gain, serious side effects include increased blood pressure and cholesterol levels, diabetes, gastrointestinal disorders and mental health issues.

Seeking Help

• BED sufferers should seek medical help immediately . For more information, visit the National Eating Disorders Association website (www.nationaleatingdisorders.org) or call their helpline at [phone].