The Binge Eating Disorder and Binge Drinking Link
Posted on: November 5th, 2015
While binge eating and binge drinking are distinctly different conditions, researchers are now finding disturbingly large numbers of individuals suffer from both simultaneously.
According to the National Eating Disorder Association a staggering 50% of people who binge on food also abuse alcohol. And this rate is 5 times that of the general population. The correlation is compelling.
Binge eating disorder (BED) is defined by recurrent, persistent episodes of binge eating — consuming unusually large amounts of food beyond fullness — without compensatory behaviors, like purging. Binge drinking is defined as 4 drinks for women and 5 drinks for men on one occasion.
Researchers are still trying to determine precisely why these two disorders co-exist in individuals, but many studies have helped us arrive at some plausible theories:
- First, those with a propensity to binge on both alcohol and food struggle between “discipline and desire” and surrender to desire as an emotional reward.
- Second, people who binge on food or alcohol are often anxious, depressed and/or have experienced past trauma. Consequently, the “numbing and buzz” from overeating and/or over-drinking offers a short term reprieve from negative feelings.
- The third theory highlights impulse control. Findings suggest impulsiveness and a tendency to seek rewarding stimuli may contribute to developing food and alcohol binging behaviors.
If you believe you’re suffering from one or both of these disorders contact a professional so they can implement a treatment program that brings you relief. Call Maureen Kritzer-Lange Psychotherapy at 973-313-1691 or email info@maureenkritzerlange.com
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