What to do after binge eating?
Firstly, binge eating is different to over eating. When having a binge, one feels out of control, almost unconscious. Binge eating disorder involves regularly eating large portions of food all at once until feeling uncomfortably full, then often feeling upset or guilty.Other symptoms may also include:
- eating very fast during a binge
- eating until you feel uncomfortably full
- eating when you're not hungry
- eating alone or secretly
- feeling depressed, guilty, ashamed or disgusted after binge eating
People who regularly eat in this way may have binge eating disorder.Binges are often planned in advance where "special" binge foods are purchased. Men and women of any age can get binge eating disorder, but it typically starts in the late teens or early 20s.
How to help with binge eatingYou need to know your triggers, if you get hot, feel the beating in your chest, get out of the kitchen and instead try and write down how you are feeling. It is about learning more about yourself and emotions.[gallery ids="1418,1286,1411"]After a bingeAfter the trance like state, the best thing to do is to do self care some people might purge and punish themselves. Instead call a friend, write in your diary something you will look forward to. Don’t skip the next meal instead have a nourishing colourful meal. It is important not to restrict as that can lead to another binge episode.
What causes binge eating?
We don't know exactly what causes binge eating disorder and other eating disorders. You may be more likely to get an eating disorder if:
- you or a member of your family has a history of eating disorders, depression, or alcohol or drug addiction
- you have been criticised for your eating habits, body shape or weight
- you are overly concerned with being slim, particularly if you also feel pressure from society or your job – for example, ballet dancers, jockeys, models or athletes
- you have anxiety, low self-esteem, an obsessive personality or are a perfectionist