The most common symptoms of compulsive overeating

Did you know that more than half the people who suffer from eating disorders are unaware of their ‘problem’? These poor folks simply believe that they are hungrier than the rest, and berate themselves for it every waking moment. What a lot of pain they carry around unnecessarily! 

Compulsive eating is a problem arising out of emotional turmoil. People with compulsive eating disorder are fanatic about food, not out of habit but out of pressure. They are consumed by thoughts of food to the extent that these interfere with their normal functioning on a day-to-day basis. Victims eat for emotional relief. Often, they plan their meals meticulously, with an attention that is all consuming. This may sound amazing but emotional eaters are out of control when it comes to food simply because they eat to overcome pain, guilt, depression, boredom, anger – in short, anything but hunger.  

The best way to identify compulsive overeating is to spot the most common symptoms associated with compulsive overeating. These symptoms are quite apparent. Keep in mind however, that most compulsive eaters are sneaky when it comes to eating and storing food. Therefore, though the symptoms are easy to spot, they may be a well kept secret. 

Common symptoms of compulsive overeating:  

?      Planning eating activities extensively 

?      Going to any lengths to eat the food they want 

?      Eating very fast (gobbling) 

?      “Grazing” bit by bit throughout the day 

?      Eating until they stuff themselves 

?      Eating non-stop when alone 

?      Eating even when not hungry 

?      Eat comfort foods (which tend to be high in sugar, salt or fat) 

?      Feeling depressed and guilty after eating 

?      Experiencing severe withdrawal symptoms when unable to satiate their cravings 

Due to the enormous number of calories they consume, compulsive eaters almost always struggle to keep their weight down, unless they indulge in some kind of purgation. That is why compulsive overeating is always associated with agonizing shame and embarrassment over body weight and appearance.  

Most compulsive overeaters live double lives. They are ashamed of their eating patterns; even fear it to some extent. So, they find it necessary to act slyly and deceive their close friends and family. This adds to their mental agony.  

Compulsive overeating is characterized by the compulsion to overeat. It is not the desire for food, but the pressure to evade painful thoughts and feelings that leads to eating. Unless the underlying pain is recognized and resolved, compulsive overeaters will find it almost impossible to come out of the food bind they are in. However, once they settle emotional issues and understand how to handle their overwhelming desire to overeat, victims can easily lead happy, fulfilled lives.  

If you too want to get rid of compulsive overeating, get your hands on the Emotional Eating Solution, the book which shows how to control what you eat and lose weight fast.