People
with binge-eating disorder don't enjoy eating to
excess. Most are upset and distressed about their
behaviour and may develop depression and other
health problems. Some people may believe that those
with binge-eating disorder have fewer health risks
than do those with anorexia or bulimia, but that's
not necessarily true. People with binge-eating
disorder face a host of medical complications.
Some of the complications can
arise from being overweight as a result of frequent bingeing. Other
complications may occur because of unhealthy yo-yo eating habits — binges
followed by periods of calorie restriction. In addition, food consumed
during a binge is often high in fat and low in protein and other nutrients,
which could lead to malnourishment.
Physical complications of
binge-eating disorder include:
- Obesity
- High blood pressure
- Type 2 diabetes
- High blood cholesterol
- Gallbladder disease
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Osteoarthritis
- Joint pain
- Muscle pain
- Gastrointestinal problems
- Headache
- Sleep apnea
In addition, people with
binge-eating disorder are at higher risk of other health issues, including:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Stress
- Sleeping problems
- Substance abuse
People with binge-eating
disorder may find their health problems worsened by lack of exercise. But
with a poor body image, they may be reluctant to exercise, especially in
public.
