Binge-eating disorder linked to brain malfunction

• * Eating much more rapidly than usual.
  
  * Eating until uncomfortably full.
  
  * Eating large amounts of food, even when not hungry.
  
  * Eating alone out of embarrassment at the quantity of food being eaten.
  
  * Feelings of disgust, depression, or guilt after overeating.
  
  * Most people with binge eating disorder are obese.

Although it has only recently been recognized as a distinct condition, binge eating disorder is probably the most common eating disorder, and is more common in women than in men.

What causes binge eating disorder?

Researchers are looking into how brain chemicals and metabolism affect binge eating disorder. These areas of research are still in the early stages.

Abnormalities in the hypothalamus, sometimes known as the master gland, because of its importance in coordinating the nervous and hormonal systems, are being linked as a cause of eating disorders. Imaging studies of the brain have found varying levels of proteins which are released during periods of stress leading to eating disorders. Such appetite related chemicals may serve as the biologic links between extreme stressful conditions in a young person's life and the later development of eating disorder. Another study links unstable, levels of leptin with eating disorders.

Studies on animal behavior and prisoners of war suggest that chronic food restriction such as severe dieting often leads to a pattern of bingeing that persists even decades after regular food supplies are restored. Biologic factors may be responsible for this insidious cycle.

Some experts believe that the slowing down, thereby increasing the risk of weight gain from even normal calorie intake.

In bulimia, the process of vomiting and use of laxatives may stimulate the production of natural opioids - narcotics in the brain that cause an addiction to the bulimic cycle. More work is needed.

The more common triggers of binge eating disorders include emotional disorders. Between 40 and 95 percent of all eating-disordered patients experience depression and anxiety disorders. Family influences and genetic factors play a major role in triggering eating disorders. Seventy-four percent of women recalled a traumatic event.

Genetic factors and cultural influences such as the social pressures of Western culture certainly play a major role in triggering the disorder.

If you believe you have binge eating disorder, it's important you realize that you are not alone. Most people who have the disorder have tried unsuccessfully to control it on their own. You may want to seek professional treatment.