(HealthDayNews) -- Binge eating disorder, among the most prevalent eating disorders in this country, affects about two percent of adults. Most of them are overweight or obese. Many have been struggling with the affliction since childhood.
Unfortunately, many who have made an effort to break the binge eating habit have done so independently -- without support from a doctor or other health care professional. And if people with the disorder weren't already depressed, their failed attempts to become "normal" eaters may make them so.
The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) strongly encourages consultations with a health professional such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or clinical social worker for those with this behavior. They can offer help with the typical psychological symptoms of binge eating -- including anger, sadness, boredom, worry and impulsive behavior.
The good news, NIDDK says, is that most people respond well to treatment.
