Ever wonder if you have a serious problem with binge eating?
In a recent issue of the Harvard Mental Health Letter, I read
a feature article about the treatment of bulimia and binge eating...
Bulimia is defined as 2 or more episodes of binge eating (consuming
a large amount of food in 2 hours or less) at least twice a week
for 3 months. These episodes may be followed by vomiting or purging
(with laxatives or diuretics) and may alternate with fasting and
compulsive exercising. People who suffer from bulimia often view
this behavior as a shameful secret.
Binge Eating Disorder (binging that is not followed by vomiting,
fasting or exercise) has gotten more attention
recently since it is being considered for inclusion as a psychiatric
diagnosis.
The criteria are tentatively listed as "a condition that
causes serious distress with at least 3 of the following
symptoms occurring at least 2 days a week for 6 months:
* eating very fast
* eating until uncomfortably full
* eating when not hungry
* eating alone
* feeling disgusted or guilty afterward
Since most of the population has probably engaged in these eating
behaviors at one time or another, I guess it comes down to the
frequency and severity of the problem. You can be a binge eater,
but you would have to be binging quite regularly to be considered
to have Binge Eating Disorder.
Many people engage in some of these behaviors all the time. People
who live alone often eat alone. And while eating when you aren't
hungry is not the most satisfying experience, sometimes it is
just an ingrained habit.
