Why Binge Eating Is Bad for You - An Overview of the Major Dangers

Why Binge Eating Is Bad for You  - An Overview of the Major Dangers
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Binge Eating

When it comes to eating disorders many people are more familiar with conditions such as anorexia or bulimia. But another dangerous eating disorder is binge eating.

Binge eating is a very serious condition where a person will eat a large amount of food in one sitting, somewhat similar to what bulimics do, but without purging at the end. Studies conducted by Mayo Clinic have shown that there are many more cases of people who binge eat compared to cases of bulimia or anorexia, yet the condition is not yet considered psychiatric.

Another study, conducted by the National Institutes of Health says there is an estimated 2 percent of American adults who suffer from compulsive eating, thus offering further proof that it is a more common condition that anorexia or bulimia.

Many people can easily pass off their binging and overeating for “special occasions” or “celebrating” if they are around friends or family members. Sadly what many are not aware of is that they are also doing the same thing at home. While it is common for most to overfeed themselves at one point or another, binge eating is often a daily practice for people with this disorder and there are many dangers associated with it.

Why Binge Eating is Bad: The Major Physical Dangers

Obesity is often a physical danger that comes with this condition. Many who have this disorder are slightly overweight to begin with but then move on to dangerous weights and become clinically obese. Obesity in itself causes a number of health issues including increased risk of diabetes, cancers and fatty liver disease.

High blood pressure and high cholesterol are other physical dangers of binge eating. These elevated levels can lead one to being at risk for having heart attacks or strokes.

Gall bladder problems and complications with the digestive system are also commonly associated with people who binge eat. This is due to the stress the binging puts on the body as it tries to absorb and digest the high amount of fat and calories.

Other physical stresses include insomnia, unexplained headaches and muscle problems.

Why Binge Eating is Bad: The Emotional Dangers

Suicidal thoughts are the most serious of emotional dangers that are linked with those who binge eat. The individual begins to feel hopeless, as though they are trapped in a never ending cycle of despondency. They are often embarrassed about their condition and feel that there is no one to turn to for help. They may feel that their life is not worth living anymore and that suicide is the only way to escape.

In a world where there is a stigma placed on looks and being thin the binge eater begins to feel that there is no use in getting help; and they may find their condition worsens rather than gets better.

References

https://www.mayoclinic.com/health/binge-eating-disorder/DS00608/DSECTION=complications

https://www.overcome-binge-eating.com/dangers-of-binge-eating.html

https://helpguide.org/mental/binge_eating_disorder.htm