Some Warning Signs:

• Rapid weight gain or obesity
• Constant weight fluctuations
• Frequently eats an abnormal amount of food in a short period of time (usually less than two hours)
• Does not use methods to purge food
• Eats rapidly (i.e. frequently chewing without swallowing)
• Feeling a lack of control over one's eating (i.e. unable to stop)
• Eating alone, "secretive eating habits", hiding food, etc.
• Eating late at night
• Eating when not hungry
• Disgust and shame with self after overeating.
• Hoarding food (especially high calorie/junk food)
• Coping with emotional and psychological states such as stress, unhappiness or disappointment by eating.
• Eating large amounts of food without being hungry
• Consuming food to the point of being uncomfortable or even in pain
• Attribute ones successes and failures to weight
• Avoiding social situations especially those involving food.

Depressed mood Anxious mood Some medical consequences:

• Obesity
• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Kidney disease and/or failure
• Gallbladder disease
• Arthritis
• Bone deterioration
• Stroke
• Upper respiratory problems
• Skin disorders
• Menstrual irregularities
• Ovarian abnormalities
• Complications of pregnancy
• Depression, anxiety and other mood disorders
• Suicidal thoughts
• Substance abuse

Treatment Options:

Studies have found that people with binge eating disorder may find it harder than other people to continue in weight loss treatment. In addition, they may be more likely to regain weight quickly. These are some of the reasons that people with binge eating disorder may require treatment that focuses on their binge eating before they try to lose weight. Further, even those who are not overweight are frequently distressed by their binge eating and may benefit from treatment.

There are several methods currently used to treat binge eating disorder.

A. Cognitive-behavioral therapy: Method in which the client is taught techniques to monitor and change their eating habits, as well as to change the way they respond to difficult and stressful situations.

B. Interpersonal psychotherapy: Method in which the client is taught to examine their relationships with friends and family and to make changes in problem areas.

C. Medications: Antidepressants may be helpful for some individuals.

D. Self-help groups: These groups may be a good additional source of support for many.

Research is still trying to attempting to determine which method or combination of methods is the most effective in controlling binge eating disorder.

Often those who have binge eating disorder suffer with the disorder for years, feel ashamed, depressed may feel very alone. It is important to recognize that you are not alone, there are millions like you and there are successful treatment options available for you.