Beat the binge
How to deal with a binge eating disorder
01/28/2010
Bnge eating disorder, a disorder characterized by an overwhelming desire to eat large amounts of food, can be a difficult problem to overcome. In fact, this disorder may be especially difficult due to the fact that food is a necessary part of life. Unlike those with a drug problem or smoking addiction, food cannot just be eliminated from one’s life. How then can you overcome this challenge associated with binge eating disorder? The following steps may help:
• Tell someone. Even if only one person knows about your disorder, at least you will no longer be alone in your struggle.
• Seek out treatment and therapy. Enroll in an eating disorder treatment facility or attend therapy sessions. Be willing to learn and make yourself vulnerable.
• Stock limited amounts of food at home. Although this may be more of a hassle, it will limit temptations at home.
• Relax. Set aside time to enjoy life and take part in a fun activity.
• Forgive yourself. You can’t change the past; you can only learn from your mistakes.
• Exercise. Plan out an appropriate exercise program you will desire to maintain.
• Determine the causes and triggers of your disorder. By doing this, you can then take steps to prevent further binges.
• Eat breakfast daily. Those who do not regularly eat breakfast are more prone to binging and eating high-calorie meals later in the day.
• Share your concerns with friends and family. Never isolate yourself.
• Take adequate nutrients. If you do not consume enough nutrients for your body, consider taking vitamin and mineral supplements.
• Find self-help books. These books will encourage you and often offer helpful advice, especially if they are centered on binge eating.
• Attend a support group. Knowing that others struggle with the same problems may relieve stress.
• Talk with a nutritionist. He or she can help you set up an appropriate meal plan.
• Write in a journal. This may help, especially when you have the urge to binge eat.
• Do not diet. Fad diets rarely help for long periods of time and very strict diet plans may only make your disorder worse.
• Love yourself for who you are, not what you look like.
Courtesy The Body Image Therapy Center.
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