Binge Eating Disorder In Men

Men make up about 40% of people with Binge Eating Disorder. Although the triggers for BED are often the same for men and women, guys have to face the stigma of dealing with a condition that many see as a female issue. Lack of knowledge about Binge Eating Disorder signs and that attitude causes a lot of men to go untreated. The right care is needed because BED is serious and possibly life-threatening. Women have dealt with body-image issues fueled by media expectations for generations. Men may feel their bodies don't measure up after constantly seeing magazines and TV images of thin, muscular men. They may fall into some unhealthy habits to get the right look. This can put them at risk for Binge Eating Disorder. They may use a restrictive diet to change the way their body looks. Men say, studies show, their binge eating began after their weight loss efforts got underway. There is a difference between Binge Eating Disorder and an episode of overeating. With BED, they likely go through cycles of overindulgence without control. Then, they feel shame and regret after. They may even feel hate towards themselves for the behavior. There are a lot of treatments for men. First step is for them to talk to their doctor. He can recommend an eating disorder specialist, who may be a psychiatrist or psychologist. Therapy will help get new eating habits and change the thoughts and feelings that bring on bingeing episodes. Medications may also be recommended. The Health at Every Size model is often used for treatment. It tries to reduce the stigma. Accepting these key principles help improve health: Accepting the size they are. Learning that part of the reason for their size is that genes are passed down from parents. They need to tune into their body's signals by watching for signs that tell when hungry or full. It is good to get healthy habits like exercise and a nutritious diet. They need to reach out to others who may not feel good about their bodies. Also, their need to reach out for support from their families and friends. On the road to recovery, there is no need to go it alone.