Steps to Take When Dealing with Binge Eating Disorder

Binge eating disorder, a disorder characterized by an overwhelming desire to eat large amounts of food, can be a difficult problem to overcome. Some may need the assistance of an eating disorder treatment center. The following steps may help in coping with binge eating disorder:

• Tell someone. Even if only one person knows about your disorder, at least you will no longer be alone in your struggle.

• Seek out treatment and therapy. Enroll in an eating disorder treatment facility or attend therapy session. Be willing to learn and make yourself vulnerable.

• Carry limited amounts of food at home. Although this may be more of a hassle, it will limit temptations at home.

• Relax. Set aside time to enjoy life and take part in a fun activity.

• Forgive yourself. You can’t change the past, you can only learn from your mistakes.

• Exercise. Plan out an appropriate exercise program you will desire to maintain.

• Determine the causes and triggers of your disorder. By doing this you can then take steps to prevent further binges.

• Eat breakfast daily. Those who do not regularly eat breakfast are more prone to binging and eating high calorie meals later in the day.

• Share your concerns with friends and family. Never isolate yourself.

• Take adequate nutrients. If you do not consume enough nutrients for your body, consider taking vitamin and mineral supplements.

• Find self-help books. These books will encourage you and often offer helpful advice, especially if they are centered on binge eating.

• Attend a support group. Knowing that others struggle with the same problems may relieve stress.

• Talk with a nutritionist. He or she can help you set up an appropriate meal plan.

• Write in a journal. This may help especially when you have the urge to binge eat.

• Do not diet. Fad diets rarely help for long periods of time and very strict diet plans may only make your disorder worse.

• Love yourself for who you are, not what you look like.