Guest guest Posted July 30, 2006 Report Share Posted July 30, 2006 You have permission to publish this article electronically or in print, free of charge, as long as the bylines are included. A courtesy copy of your publication would be appreciated - send to tw@.... Title: Are You a Binge Eater? Word Count: 417 Author: Carol Email: tw@... Article URL: http://www.submityourarticle.com/articles/easypublish.php?art_id=7873 The article is preformatted to 60CPL. Are You a Binge Eater? Copyright 2006 Carol 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. You do not have to be overweight to be a binge eater. Many people with binge eating problems think they are overweight or are worried that they will become seriously overweight. Dieting does not necessarily stop the binging and is often viewed as being part of the problem rather than the solution. The body resists dieting by slowing metabolism and increasing appetite, commonly accompanied by an intense preoccupation with food, more binging, anxiety and depression. If you are struggling with bulimia or severe binge eating problems, seek help and get the support you deserve. Don’t keep it a secret. You do not need to be heroic and suffer alone. If you engage in some of the binge eating behaviors, join the club. You can learn to change all of these behaviors, even mild to moderate binge eating by listening to your body, eating mindfully and being kind to yourself. About the Author: Would you like to have a life you don’t even think about food and weight issues? That is what Carol , Ph.D. helps her clients develop for themselves. " Lose Weight Now Stay Slim Forever " is a practical " how-to " manual for learning to lose weight without dieting. For a free 60-minute audio and free ezine, go to: http://www.Lose-Weight-Now-Stay-Slim-Forever.com Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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