Let’s bust some myths that are commonly associated with binge eating disorder (BED) and clear up the facts! There’s a lot of misinformation floating around, so let’s set the record straight.
Myth #1: Binge Eating Disorder is Just Overeating
Fact: No, it’s not. Sure, we all have those days when we eat a bit too much (hello, Christmas, Brithdays, celebrations, weekends), but BED is way more serious. It’s a recognised eating disorder where people regularly eat large amounts of food in a short period and feel out of control while doing it. It’s not about enjoying a big meal or having a few too many snacks; it’s about a compulsion that can be overwhelming and feel impossible to stop.
Myth #2: Only Overweight People Have BED
Fact: BED doesn’t discriminate. While it’s true that many people with BED may fall into the “higher range” of BMI categories, it can affect anyone, regardless of their size. The fact is, you CANNOT tell if someone has BED just by looking at them. Skinny, average, larger bodied—it doesn’t matter; BED can impact all body types.
Myth #3: It’s All About Lack of Willpower
Fact: This is one of the most harmful myths out there. BED isn’t about being weak or lacking self-control. It’s a complex mental health condition often linked to emotional issues, trauma, and other psychological factors. There are also complex physiological processes at play when it comes to the binge-restrict cycle. For example, hormones like grehlin, cortisol and insulin increase when the body is in a deprived state, leading to intense urges to eat richer energy dense foods to combat hunger and stress on the body. Telling someone with BED to “just stop eating so much” is like telling someone with asthma to “just breathe better.”
Myth #4: BED is Not as Serious as Other Eating Disorders
Fact: BED is just as serious as anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa. It can lead to severe physical health problems like diabetes, heart disease and hypertension. Plus, the emotional and psychological toll—shame, guilt, depression, and anxiety—can be devastating.
Myth #5: People with BED Eat Junk Food All the Time
Fact: While people with BED might binge on energy dense foods, it’s not always the case. A binge episode can involve any type of food, even something you might consider “healthy”. It’s not about what they’re eating but the out-of-control feeling that comes with it.
Myth #6: It’s Easy to Spot Someone with BED
Fact: BED is often a hidden struggle. Many people with BED go to great lengths to hide their eating habits. They might binge in secret and appear to eat normally or even appear as “small eaters” in public. Just because someone doesn’t look like they have an eating disorder doesn’t mean they’re not struggling.
The Facts
- So, what’s the real story behind BED? Here are some key points to understand:
- It’s a Mental Health Condition: Like other eating disorders, BED has deep psychological roots. It’s often linked to low self-esteem, depression, and anxiety.
- Triggers are Real: Emotional stress, trauma, and even certain situations can trigger binge episodes.
- Help is Available: The good news is that BED is treatable. Therapy, medication, and support groups can make a huge difference. See our last blog post about BED treatment.[hyperlink?]
- You’re Not Alone: If you’re struggling with BED, remember that you’re not alone. Many people are going through the same thing, and reaching out for help is a brave and crucial first step. It is hard to fight an eating disorder on your own, you will need help!
Let’s stop the stigma and spread the truth about Binge Eating Disorder. It’s a serious condition that deserves understanding and compassion. If you or someone you know is struggling, encourage them to seek professional help and contact our team at Myrtle Oak Clinic. Remember, it’s not about willpower; it’s about health and well-being.
