What are some tips for overcoming binge eating disorder?
Binge eating disorder is a serious, life-threatening eating disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of eating large amounts of food (often very quickly and to the point of discomfort); a feeling of being out of control during the binge; experiencing shame, distress or guilt afterwards; and/or bingeing at least once a week for 3 months. While there is no one “cure” for binge eating disorder, there are treatment options and self-help strategies that can be very effective in helping people overcome this disorder.
Here are 10 tips for overcoming binge eating disorder:
1. Seek professional help. Binge eating disorder is a serious, life-threatening condition that requires professional treatment. If you think you may be suffering from binge eating disorder, please see a mental health professional or call a National Eating Disorders Association Helpline.
2. Be patient. Overcoming binge eating disorder will take time. Be patient with yourself and trust that you can and will recover.
3. Challenge negative thoughts and beliefs about yourself. People with binge eating disorder often have negative thoughts and beliefs about themselves, such as “I’m a failure,” “I’m worthless,” or “I’m not good enough.” These negative thoughts can trigger binge eating episodes. It’s important to challenge and reframe these negative thoughts in order to help prevent future binge eating episodes.
4. Build a support system. Having a supportive network of family and friends can be a helpful part of overcoming binge eating disorder. Find people who will understand and support your recovery process.
5. Identify your trigger foods. We all have certain foods that trigger us to binge eat. It’s important to identify these trigger foods and either avoid them altogether or learn to eat them in moderation.
6. Make healthy food choices. Eating healthy, nutritious foods is an important part of overcoming binge eating disorder. Choose foods that make you feel good physically and mentally.
7. Avoid restrictive dieting. People with binge eating disorder often turn to restrictive dieting in an attempt to control their weight. However, this only leads to further binge eating episodes. Instead of dieting, focus on making healthy food choices and listening to your body’s hunger cues.
8. Eat regular meals. Skipping meals or cutting back on calories can trigger binge eating episodes. It’s important to eat regular meals and snacks throughout the day to keep your blood sugar levels stable and prevent overeating.
9. Get regular exercise. Exercise can be a great way to cope with the stress and anxiety that can trigger binge eating episodes. It can also help to boost your mood and improve your body image.
10. Practice self-compassion. Beating yourself up after a binge eating episode will only make things worse. Instead, practice self-compassion. Forgive yourself, and know that you are doing the best you can.
How are people affected by binge eating disorder?
Binge eating disorder (BED) is a serious, life-threatening eating disorder and mental health condition. Individuals with BED compulsively eat large amounts of food in a short period of time, even when they’re not hungry. They may feel ashamed, embarrassed, or guilty after overeating, but they can’t seem to stop.
Binge eating disorder affects men and women of all ages, races, and sizes. It is one of the most common eating disorders in the United States. While most people with BED are overweight or obese, not all people with the disorder are.
Binge eating disorder can lead to serious physical and mental health problems. It can increase your risk for obesity, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. It can also lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders.
If you think you may have binge eating disorder, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional. They can help you find the treatment you need to recover.
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