What are the Health Risks Associated With Compulsive Overeating?
A number of individuals with compulsive overeating habits feel that they lack the willpower they need to "eat healthy" or "stay on a strict diet." But, compulsive overeating is most likely not due to a lack of willpower. And dieting may actually make compulsive overeating behaviors worse.
Medical and physical health risks
Many people who compulsively overeat — without compensatory behaviors (vomiting, laxative/diuretic abuse, over-exercise) — are of higher weight. When individuals are overweight or obese they may be more likely to experience one or more of these serious medical conditions:
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Metabolic syndrome
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Heart disease
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Stroke
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Type 2 diabetes
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Certain types of cancer
Higher weight patients are also more likely to experience sleep disturbances, aches and pains, hygiene issues, mobility concerns (greater fall risk) and other health risks.
Increased risk for mental health problems
In addition to the medical and physical complications that accompany being of higher weight, depression is another serious health risk. In the field of eating disorder treatment, we do see a connection between depression and overeating. At times, the effects of being overweight or obese can lead to depression; at other times, individuals may have a sustained depressed mood that contributes to overeating and subsequent weight gain. Being unable to stop overeating habits can cause a great deal of anxiety and distress. Thankfully, help is available. Professional, specialized treatment for compulsive overeating exists and we can help you learn more about treatment options.
You can get help for overeating
Our Masters-level clinicians are here to help you understand more about compulsive overeating and the specialized treatment that can help you fully recover. Please call us today at 877-825-8584 to schedule a free, confidential phone consultation. We're here to help.
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