What is Binge Eating?
Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is characterized by recurrent episodes of consuming large quantities of food in a short period of time, accompanied by a feeling of loss of control. Unlike other eating disorders, these episodes are not followed by compensatory behaviors like vomiting or taking laxatives. Instead, overeating is central.
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Binge eating often takes place in a cycle that includes dieting... your malnourished body fighting back and wanting calories... overeating/binging... shame, guilt, and other negative feelings about overeating... then trying to diet again... and the cycle continues indefinitely. It is not a sustainable cycle, even if influencers and 'fad diets' tell you it is. Let us help you break the cycle and lean into a more healthy and sustainable way forward.
Common Signs & Health Impact of Binge Eating
- Eating significantly faster than normal or until uncomfortably full.
- Consuming large amounts of food even when not physically hungry.
- Eating alone due to feelings of embarrassment, guilt, or shame.
- Emotional distress including anxiety, depression, or harsh negative self-talk.
- Physical risks such as metabolic issues, nausea, and other gastrointestinal discomfort.
Common Causes and Triggers of Binge Eating
Habits
Emotional Distress
(i.e., 'Emotional Eating')
Poor Internal Hunger and Fullness Cues
Learned Patterns
Cravings or Urges
Coping with Stress
Hunger Induced By Medications or Medical Conditions
How Isaacs Psychology Can Help
We offer a warm, compassionate, and professional environment to help you navigate and improve your relationship with food. Our approach begins with a comprehensive psychological assessment to understand your unique patterns and thoughts/behaviours around eating and nutrition. We utilize evidence-based treatments, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), tailored to address both the behavioral symptoms and the underlying emotional roots of binge eating and other sources of unhealthy relationships with food. Our approach is non-judgmental, non-stigmatizing, and inclusive of all body shapes and sizes. We offer binge eating support to adults, teenagers/adolescents (12+), and parents, and we use developmentally-appropriate language and strategies to support at each age and stage.