If It's a Problem, Why Do People Overeat?

Binge eating is a form of eating disorder where a patient has a compulsion to overeat or to eat beyond what is normally required rather excessively. He would act and look as if he would never get enough of food because he would never feel full. This type of disorder is usually characterized by repeated episodes of excessive eating, eating at a rapid pace, with a hint towards lack of control, hoarding of food, hiding of food, and eating in secret. Emotionally, the binge eater has feelings of disgust, depression, and guilt during and after eating. The person usually engages in binge eating to relieve tension. The person feels the need to have strong control. He is also marked by a perfectionist attitude, along with feelings of self-worthlessness and depression. The person works hard to please others and avoid fights. There is also a feeling of disgust for body size. A binge eater would probably try to solve his eating disorder problem all by himself. Most of the time, this does not work. Thus, the disorder continues to worsen unless a support group such as family and friends notices what is going on and ask for assistance.

Physical characteristics of a binge eater includes having joint problems, abnormal levels of blood sugar, fatigue, difficulty walking or performing physical exercise, and heart and blood pressure problems.

A binge eater usually has frequent bouts of eating large quantities of food in short intervals without regard for feelings of hunger or fullness. The binger eater would confess to be out of control while eating excessively. There would be feelings of shame, disgust, and guilt about the amount of food consumed.

Health consequences of binge eating are gallbladder disease, secondary diabetes, heart disease, high cholesterol levels, and high blood pressure.

More women binge more than men. About 60% are female and only 40% are male. Binge eating among blacks are just as often among the whites.