Eating Disorders

We have all overeaten at some point – whether at a holiday meal, family celebration, or our favorite restaurant. However, behind these rare occurrences are people who struggle with constant overeating or binge eating uncontrollably at least once a week. Do you find yourself overeating at almost every meal? Have you overeaten so often that you can no longer feel when your stomach is genuinely empty or full? Or do you unconsciously devour a variety of foods at one time, leaving you with physical pain, guilt, shame, and embarrassment? Both binge eating and overeating are mental health disorders that can lead to emotional and physical complications, but you can find healing and help. Newbury Park Christian Counseling offers support to help you address these challenges and work toward emotional and physical well-being in a healthy, compassionate environment. The Difference Between Overeating and Binge Eating Are you confused about overeating or bingeing? Although both acts include eating much more than the body requires, there are differences between the two disorders. Signs for Overeating Disorder include: Eating larger portions than is necessary Going back for seconds or third helpings with most meals Difficulty feeling full and satiated Frequently overeating to chase away other emotions like anxiety or depression Signs for Binge Eating Disorder include: Eating large amounts of food within a small period, such as two hours Feeling out of control while eating Eating in secret (examples: alone in the car, after the family has gone to bed) Feeling guilt, shame, or embarrassment after a binge Eating until you feel physical pain The effects of too much food are detrimental to your health. First, you may feel physical pain and gastrointestinal problems with overconsumption, followed by tiredness, guilt, self-loathing, and shame. As the overeating or bingeing pattern continues, insulin levels rise [...]