Binge Eating - An Embarrassing and Painful Eating Disorder
 When people think of eating disorders, it is normally an unhealthy desire to be skinny that first comes to mind. However, there is another kind of eating challenge that affects far more people than any other eating problem -- binge eating -- in which the sufferer repeatedly gorges themselves uncontrollably on food.
Even though it is one of the most common eating problems, very little is known about binge eating. And unlike other eating disorders, it is not considered to be a distinct psychiatric problem. Some of the believed causes of binge eating include:
- Biological - Some people have genetic markers that make them more susceptible to developing eating disorders, and many researchers believe that a chemical imbalance may also lead to binge eating.
- Psychological - Low self esteem can cause people to turn to food for emotional comfort. Many people use food as a way of coping with stressor, which can easily spiral into an emotional and psychological dependence on food to feel happy and fulfilled, resulting in overeating.
- Environmental - Society puts a lot of unnecessary pressure on body image, which can lead to eating disorders. Even though that most people who suffer from binge eating are overweight, they are often in denial about what their problem is doing to their health and feel guilt, anger, and embarrassment for eating as much as they do.
Like many other eating problems, binge eating can often be treated by creating a healthy relationship with food. Through making healthy food choices and following simple nutrition tips, becoming more active, and addressing any emotional challenges that make a person turn to food, those suffering from this condition can often live a happier, healthier life.
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