An overeater is someone who eats unusually large amounts of food at a single sitting. But this is more than just overindulging at an occasional meal; this type of overeating occurs with regularity. Often referred to as compulsive overeating or binge eating, it's the most common of all eating disorders, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Symptoms
Besides eating large quantities of food, compulsive overeaters experience many other symptoms of the condition. The Mayo Clinic explains that most of these symptoms are either emotional or behavioral in nature. It isn't uncommon for an overeater to eat rapidly, binge alone and beyond the feeling of fullness. He frequently eats without being hungry and thoughts are regularly focused on food. Though overeaters tend to suffer from feelings of guilt, disgust and depression after a binge, much anticipation is placed on the act of eating.
Origins
According to the University of Pennsylvania, compulsive overeating is at least partly a result of an emotional reaction. Overeaters tend to use food to soothe themselves. They use it as a way to hide from emotions or cope with challenges and pressures. Lack of love or validation can contribute to episodic overeating binges, using food to compensate for the pain or fill the void. However, the Mayo Clinic expands the origins of this eating disorder, stating that some people are actually predisposed or more susceptible to becoming a binge eater. This gives the condition a genetic component. It's also possible for environmental factors to lead to its development.
Effects
Although weight gain is one of the more common effects of compulsive overeating, many overeaters have an increased risk of developing other health conditions. The Mayo Clinic cautions that you can develop high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, heart disease, type 2 diabetes and depression. You may experience greater occurrences of headaches, muscle pain, joint pain and insomnia. Some overeaters are also plagued with suicidal thoughts.
Treatment
Treatment for compulsive overeating usually entails some type of psychotherapy. It may include cognitive behavioral therapy to better cope with stress and identify triggers that may elicit binges. You may also benefit from medications to treat depression or support groups for people suffering from the same disorder.
Support
There's some belief that overeaters suffer from a food addiction, and the best form of treatment involves the Twelve Steps commonly used for alcoholics or substance abusers. Overeaters Anonymous believes overeaters are powerless over food, which has led to an unmanageable life. The Twelve Steps allows for better control of food and eating.
