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Eating Disorder:

• Anorexia
• Bulimia
• Compulsive Overeating
• How to Help

 Compulsive Overeating

Compulsive Overeating is a newly recognized condition that probably affects millions of Americans. People with compulsive Overeating frequently eat large amounts of food while feeling a loss of control over their eating. This disorder is different from binge-purge syndrome (bulimia nervosa) because people with binge eating disorder usually do not purge afterward by vomiting or using laxatives. Individuals who compulsively overeat often use food as an addictive substance.  

As others may turn to alcohol, drugs, or gambling to alleviate stress, compulsive overeaters turn to food.  Food has many associations with comfort and self-nurturing. Unfortunately, anything that feels good can be abused.  Compulsive overeaters may feel empty inside, and turn to food to help them feel full.  Compulsive overeating is commonly referred to as binge eating.

Facts vs. Myths

MYTH
Compulsive overeating is not as serious a problem as anorexia or bulimia.  (IN fact, most obese people are jolly).

FACT
Those who are compulsive overeaters have an equally difficult struggle with their life and suffer from numerous physical problems and emotional strain.  Heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and depression are only a few of the potential consequences of compulsive overeating.

MYTH
Only females have eating disorders.

FACT
Although the majority of people with an eating disorder are female, the numbers of males are increasing significantly.

Useful Links to other sites about Eating Disorders:

The Center for Eating Disorders

Eating Disorders Awareness and Prevention, Inc

Eating Disorder Shared Awareness

MentalHealth.net’s Eating Disorder Page

Mirror Mirror Eating Disorder Shared Awareness

Eating Disorder Referral and Information Center

Eating Disorders/Disordered Culture

Signs/Symptoms

•  Are usually overweight and may become obese.

•  Suffer from shortness of breath, high blood pressure and joint problems.

•  Binge eating (Consuming large amounts of food in a short period of time- specifically, person binges at least twice a week for at least three months.

•  Feeling of being out of control when eating.

•  Preoccupation with body size.

Click Here for How to Help