Tag: binge eating

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Media Article: Eating Disorders are Rising, Fatal, and Ignored

What is this?

Ericka Andersen’s article, “Eating Disorders are Rising, Fatal, and Ignored,” offers a personal and insightful look into the realities of eating disorders. The author shares her own struggle, highlighting the often-misunderstood nature of these mental illnesses and their alarming rise in recent years. It addresses triggers like social media, diet trends, and increasing rates of anxiety, while also emphasizing that eating disorders are not limited to a specific demographic. This piece sheds light on the complexities of disordered eating and the urgent need for increased awareness and resources.

How can this help me?

If you’re grappling with food addiction or disordered eating, this article provides validation and a crucial reminder that you’re not alone. Ericka’s candid account of her own battle can help dismantle feelings of shame and isolation. The piece underscores that eating disorders are mental illnesses, not moral failings, and highlights potential triggers to be mindful of. By understanding the author’s experiences and insights, you may feel more empowered to seek help and begin your own journey toward recovery and self-compassion.

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Research Paper: Psychological differences in food addiction and binge eating in a general Polish population

What is this?

Is binge eating a form of food addiction? Or is food addiction a sub-type of binge eating? Are they the same disorder or are they distinct? This study, published in the prestigious journal Nature, compares and contrasts the characteristics of these two disorders in the Polish population. The research reveals that while both disorders involve “eating a large quantity of food in a short amount of time,” they differ in crucial aspects. For example, “Patients with BED [binge eating disorder] typically exhibit episodes of disturbed behavior whereas patients with FA tend to show a continuous pattern of disturbed behavior”. By comparing and contrasting these two conditions, the research offers a fresh perspective on the complex relationship between psychology and eating behaviors.

Source: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-87057-w

How can this help me?

For those battling food addiction, this study offers validation and clarity. It provides scientific evidence that the struggles of food addicts are real and cannot be explained by a simple lack of willpower.

This paper defines food addiction as follows:

“[…] increased compulsive food intake, which in turn may lead to the loss of its hedonic value – a reduction in the enjoyment or pleasure derived from eating. Similar to other types of addiction, individuals with FA [food addiction] often consume larger amounts of food than intended and experience cravings, urges, or a strong desire to eat. They often report spending large amounts of time obtaining food, eating, or recovering from eating. Additionally, they mention a persistent desire for food and unsuccessful attempts to cut down on eating. They may report the necessity to eat more to reduce negative emotions or to increase pleasure, as well as withdrawal symptoms such as experiencing negative affect or physical symptoms when they stop eating. As with any addiction, FA causes clinically significant impairment and distress,”

By highlighting the psychological factors associated with food addiction, this study offers food addicts a deeper understanding of the condition. For example, the research distinguishes food addiction from BED, noting that food addicts “show tolerance and withdrawal symptoms, as well as the neglect of social connections, abandonment of other activities, and other symptoms.” This knowledge can be empowering, potentially leading to more effective treatment options and helping to explain the realities of food addiction to skeptics.