Binge eating occurs in people of all weight levels, but is more common in obese individuals. The presence of binge eating complicates the treatment of obesity. Obese binge eaters show more emotional issues than obese non-binge eaters, and tend to do less well in standard weight loss programs. Individuals with significant problems with obesity and BED need a specialized form of treatment addressing both problems, since working on both issues together has synergistic effects. That’s why we developed our multidisciplinary Obesity and Binge Eating Disorder Treatment Program. Clinical indications of BED Individuals suffering with BED experience embarrassment or shame about their eating habits, and their symptoms may often be hidden. Here are some behavioural and emotional signs and symptoms of BED:
Continuing to eat until extreme fullness
Inability to stop eating or feeling out of control of the amount eaten
Stockpiling food to eat secretly at a later time
Eating normally when in the presence of others but gorging when alone
Experiencing feelings of stress or anxiety that can only be relieved by eating
Summary of our treatment program The treatment of BED involves an analysis of the context of binging (i.e. the what, when, where, how, and why), and the development of alternative coping mechanisms. Our program combines techniques for reducing binge eating and improving weight control. Thus, whereas in many programs for BED participants tend not to lose any weight, our approach allows individuals to work on both goals simultaneously.
If you are struggling with obesity and binge eating, come and see us, the specialists in comprehensive obesity care.
