When talking about eating disorders (ED), anorexia and bulimia usually come to mind. However, there is another disorder that is much more common and, at the same time, less recognized: binge eating syndrome or disorder.
According to various studies, this disorder has a higher prevalence than bulimia and is especially common in overweight or obese people. While it affects approximately 2% of the general population, it can occur in up to 30% of those who undergo weight loss treatments and in about half of candidates for bariatric surgery.
Binge eating syndrome is characterized by recurrent episodes of excessive food intake accompanied by a feeling of loss of control. Those who suffer from it describe the inability to stop eating until they reach a feeling of extreme and uncomfortable fullness. Unlike bulimia, these episodes are not usually followed by induced vomiting, although compensatory behaviors such as prolonged fasting or excessive exercise may appear.
One of the most complex aspects of this disorder is that it usually develops silently. Shame, guilt, and fear of social judgment cause many people to hide their episodes for years before seeking professional help. Furthermore, binge eating is usually done alone and rarely in social situations.
Specialists point out that binge eating disorder is not only related to food. It is frequently associated with anxiety problems, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorders or certain personality traits, such as impulsivity or rigidity. For this reason, it should not be interpreted as a simple lack of will.
Adolescence represents one of the stages of greatest risk for its appearance. During these years, young people begin to gain autonomy over their diet and other aspects of their daily lives. In predisposed people, this greater independence can favor the appearance of disordered eating behaviors.
Regarding the impact of beauty ideals, experts recognize that social pressure to be thin and constant messages on social networks can act as triggers. However, they clarify that they are not the main cause. The development of an eating disorder depends on multiple biological, psychological and environmental factors that interact with each other.
Treatment requires an interdisciplinary approach that includes doctors, psychologists, psychiatrists and nutritionists. One of the most common mistakes is to focus exclusively on weight loss. Very restrictive diets usually increase the risk of new binge eating, so the initial goal is to reestablish an orderly and regular eating pattern.
Psychological therapy plays a fundamental role, helping to identify the triggers of the episodes and rebuild a healthy relationship with food. In many cases, pharmacological support is also necessary.
Although eating disorders are not considered curable in the strict sense, specialists emphasize that they are controllable. With adequate treatment, people can regain balance in their diet, improve their quality of life and develop healthy habits that are sustainable over time.
For more information about Dr. Leonardo Sande, his clinic and his programs to combat obesity, you can visit his website www.clinicasande.com.uy, call (+598) 98 275 020 or write to [email protected]. You can also follow Dr. Sande on Instagram @drleonardosande to stay up to date with the latest health and wellness news and advice.
by CONTENT NEWS
Image gallery
