Binge-eating disorders

Binge-eating is something I feel I <sometimes> struggle with. It's not an all the time thing, but on occasion I have this urge to just eat and eat for no reason.  Binge-eating is stated as a serious eating disorder in which you frequently consume unusually large amounts of food.  Everyone can admit to overeating at times, however, overeating for some crosses the line to binge-eating disorder and it becomes a regular occurrence, shrouded in secrecy.

There is a compulsion to eat and eat which is similar to someone that has a drinking problem.  There is something going on in the brain that doesn't give that "enough" sensation to tell you to stop. There is a certain euphoria you feel.  But who wants to admit they are a binge eater?  This is something that  is embarrassing and is very costly.  It feels good to eat, but there is a line and once that line is crossed its hard to stop.  I love to eat, who doesn't but when this happens I always feel like shit during and afterwards ....mentally, emotionally and physically.

Biological factors. People with binge-eating disorder may have inherited genes that made them more susceptible to developing an eating disorder. In addition, brain chemicals may be altered in people with binge-eating disorder.

Psychological factors. Psychological and emotional factors may also play a role in binge-eating disorder. You may have low self-worth and trouble controlling impulsive behaviors, managing moods or expressing anger.

Environmental factors. Modern Western culture often cultivates and reinforces a desire for thinness. Although most people who have binge-eating disorder are overweight, they are probably acutely aware of their appearance and may get angry with themselves after eating binges.

          

Symptoms of binge-eating:
 *Eating large amounts of food
 *Eating even when you're full
 *Eating rapidly during binge episodes
 *Feeling that your eating behavior is out of control
 *Eating a lot even though you're not hungry
 *Depression
 *Anxiety
 *Frequent dieting, possibly without weight loss
 *Frequently eating alone
 *Feeling depressed, disgusted or upset about your eating

<source: Mayo Clinic website>