Compulsive concern
Question
What would the symptoms of compulsive eating be? How would I know if someone had this problem?
Answer
Compulsive eating, also known as binge eating, is a type of eating disorder that involves a person going through periods of eating excessively and can sometimes be followed by periods of dieting (this is sometimes referred to as yoyo dieting). There are many signs and symptoms some of which are also common in other eating disorders.
The main outward physical sign of binge eating is a steady or sudden weight gain, this can go up and down depending if there's binging followed by dieting. Generally though, compulsive eating does lead to being overweight, particularly if someone is eating an excess of high fats and carbohydrates. Other outward signs can include
- A bloated stomach
- Bad circulation
- Constipation
- Tooth decay
These symptoms are often due to a lack of vital vitamins and nutrients the body needs to maintain a healthy balance.
There are also internal symptoms, which are potentially more serious and harder to spot. These can include:
- Breathing problems
- Damage to the liver and kidneys
- In serious circumstances, heart failure
There are also emotional and behavioural symptoms associated with compulsive eating. These can include:
- Secretive behaviour (a person may become secretive and try to hide their disorder by eating alone as much as possible)
- Using food as treats or for comfort
- Feelings of disgust about their weight
- Feelings of anger and depression
- Low self-esteem
All of these feelings may, in turn, affect relationships and daily routines such as work.
Although you don't mention if you or anyone you know is a compulsive eater, if either of these is the case you've made an important first step in gaining more knowledge about a subject that should definitely be taken seriously.
Someone who has a compulsive eating disorder usually has very negative feelings towards food and they may be using it to cope with other problems. People sometimes focus on their weight as a way of avoiding dealing with other issues in their life.
The symptoms outlined here are only a small fraction of the information available about compulsive eating. You might benefit from getting more information and support from organisations and people who specialise in eating disorders. The Eating Disorders Association (EDA) have an adult and a youth helpline both with an email information service, and a self-help network across the country that can provide access to local support and information.
Mind, the mental health charity, have a booklet called Understanding Eating Distress, it includes a section on compulsive eating and is available to download from their website. You may also find it helpful to call SANELINE, a confidential helpline providing support, practical information and a listening service every day of the year from 12pm-2am, you can call them on 0845 767 8000.
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Question answered by SANE
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