What is the most effective treatment for overcoming binge eating disorder?
Binge eating disorder (BED) is a serious, life-threatening eating disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating followed by extreme measures to avoid weight gain, such as self-induced vomiting or purging, fasting, excessive exercise, or misuse of laxatives, diuretics, or other medications. BED is the most common eating disorder in the United States, affecting an estimated 3.5% of women and 2% of men.
Binge eating episodes are characterized by eating an excessive amount of food in a short period of time and feeling out of control during the eating episode. Afterward, people with BED often feel ashamed, depressed, or guilty. Binge eating episodes are often triggered by feelings of boredom, sadness, stress, or anxiety.
While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to treating BED, research suggests that a combination of individual therapy, group therapy, and medication is often the most effective.
Individual therapy can help people with BED learn how to cope with their Trigger foods, emotions, and situations. This may involve learning about and practicing mindful eating, emotional regulation, and distress tolerance skills.
Group therapy provides support and guidance from others who are struggling with similar issues. This can be an incredibly powerful experience, normalizing feelings and experiences, and providing people with a sense of community.
Medication can be an important part of treatment for BED, especially for those who have not been able to reduce their binge eating through therapy alone. The most commonly prescribed medications for BED are antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). These medications can help reduce the frequency and intensity of binge eating episodes, as well as associated symptoms like depression and anxiety.
If you or someone you know is struggling with BED, know that you are not alone and there is help available. Treatment can be very effective in reducing or eliminating binge eating episodes and helping people to develop a healthier relationship with food and their bodies.
How common is binge eating disorder?
1.3% of American adults suffer from binge eating disorder, according to the National Eating Disorder Association. That said, the prevalence of binge eating disorder may be much higher. A large-scale study that included over 24,000 participants found that 3.5% of American adults report having binge eating disorder symptoms.
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