Binge-eating disorder
People with binge-eating disorder lose control over their eating. Unlike bulimia nervosa, periods of binge eating are not followed by compensatory behaviors like purging, excessive exercise, or fasting. As a result, people with binge-eating disorder often are overweight or obese. People with binge-eating disorder who are obese are at higher risk for developing cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure. They also experience guilt, shame, and distress about their binge eating, which can lead to more binge eating.
Health Consequences of Binge Eating Disorder
Binge eating disorder often results in many of the same health risks associated with clinical obesity. The potential health consequences of binge eating disorder could include:
- High blood pressure and high cholesterol levels
- Risk of developing Type II diabetes
- Gallbladder disease
- Chronically inflamed bowel
- Problems with digestion (obstipation or diarrhea)
- Heart disease (stroke or heart attack) as a result of elevated triglyceride levels
- Dehydration, lack of vitamines and minerals (tiredness)
Source NIHM (www.nihm.nih.gov)
