Compulsive eating disorder, a cause of obesity and obesity-related diseases, is an addiction and should be treated as such. The same "feel good" chemicals are released in the brains of compulsive eaters, people with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and cocaine addicts, according to research conducted by Daniel Amen, M.D., author of "Change Your Brain, Change Your Life." The good news is that, most often, it is not the fault of the eater. Help is available.
Seek Psychological help
The reaction of eating a good food delivers the same chemicals to the your brain as cocaine. You might be using this feeling to make up for other feelings not present in your life. Food could be a replacement for love, the loss of a family member or a lack of friends. A psychologist can help the you get to the root of your problems and provide a route to recovery.
Develop a Base of Support
Getting a dietitian and personal trainer can help you achieve regular eating habits. The problem may not be how much you are eating at all, but what you are eating. A dietitian will tailor an eating program that will provide you satiety and satisfaction from your meals without over-eating. A seasoned personal trainer is a great asset to keeping you on your goal of regular eating habits and better health. Also check your local newspaper and on-line forums for social help groups. As a compulsive over eater, you are one of many. You will have no trouble finding others to help you. With a strong base of support, success is possible.
Drink Plenty of Water
Usually, the first signal to the brain to eat is not from hunger but from thirst. Drinking a great deal of water can curb your thirst in a pinch and will help you hold back the plate. Remember to drink the recommended eight to 12 glasses of water a day and up to several liters if you have an active lifestyle. Drinking more water alone has helped many achieve regular eating habits.
