Complications, Help and Information Concerning BED

Complications of BED and Information

People with BED are often overweight because they maintain a high calorie diet without expending a similar amount of energy. Medical problems for this disorder are similar to those found with obesity such as increased cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, and diabetes, as well as increased risk for gallbladder disease, heart disease, and some types of cancer. Researchers have shown that individuals with BED also have high rates of depression. People with binge eating disorder can get sick because they may not be getting the right nutrients. They usually eat large amounts of fats and sugars, which don't have a lot of vitamins or minerals.

People who are obese and also have binge eating disorder are at risk for:
* diabetes
* high blood pressure
* high blood cholesterol levels
* gallbladder disease
* heart disease
* certain types of cancer.

Most people with binge eating disorder have tried to control it on their own, but have not been able to control it for very long. Some people miss work, school, or social activities to binge eat. Persons who are obese with binge eating disorder often feel bad about themselves and may avoid social gatherings.

Most people who binge eat, whether they are obese or not, feel ashamed and try to hide their problem. Often they become so good at hiding it that even close friends and family members don't know they binge eat.

For more information:
     You can find out more about eating disorders and other mental disorders by contacting the following organizations:
* National Mental Health Information Center, SAMHSA, HHS
   Phone: (800) 789-2647
   Internet Address: http://www.mentalhealth.org/
* Weight Control Information Network, NIDDK, NIH, HHS
   Phone: (877) 946-4627
   Internet Address: http://www.niddk.nih.gov/health/nutrit/win.htm
* Anorexia Nervosa and Related Eating Disorders, Inc.
   Phone: (541) 344-1144
   Internet Address: http://www.anred.com/
* National Eating Disorders Association
   Phone: (800) 931-2237
   Internet Address: http://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org