Loss of control eating is a psychological condition that involves being unable to control what or how much one eats, regardless of the amount of food consumed.
It has been considered a core symptom of several eating disorders, such as binge eating disorder, anorexia nervosa, and bulimia nervosa.
However, loss of control eating can also affect people who do not meet the diagnostic criteria for these disorders but still struggle with their eating behaviors and emotions.
Navigating Loss of Control Eating: Causes, Signs, and Treatment Options
Loss of control eating can have serious consequences for one’s physical and mental health, such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, depression, anxiety, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts. It can also impair one’s quality of life, social relationships, and self-esteem.
Therefore, it is important to understand the causes, signs, and treatment options for loss of control eating, and to seek professional help if needed.
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| Loss of Control Eating What It Is and How to Overcome It |
Key Takeaways
- Loss of control eating L.C.E. is a psychological condition that involves being unable to control what or how much one eats, regardless of the amount of food consumed.
- L.C.E. can be a symptom of several eating disorders, such as binge eating disorder, anorexia nervosa, and bulimia nervosa, but it can also affect people who do not have an eating disorder diagnosis.
- Loss of control eating can be caused by a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors, such as genetics, hormones, emotions, cognition, and environment.
- L.C.E. can have serious consequences for one’s physical and mental health, such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, depression, anxiety, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts.
- Loss of control eating can be treated with various options, such as psychotherapy, medication, nutrition counseling, and support groups.
What Causes Loss of Control Eating?
There is no single cause for loss of control eating, but rather a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors that may contribute to its development and maintenance. Some of the possible factors are:
Genetics
Some people may have a genetic predisposition to loss of control eating, especially if they have a family history of eating disorders or obesity.
Hormones
Hormonal imbalances, such as low levels of leptin or high levels of ghrelin, may affect one’s appetite and hunger signals, and increase the drive for food consumption.
Emotions
Loss of control eating may be a way of coping with negative emotions, such as stress, anger, sadness, loneliness, boredom, or guilt.
People who have difficulty regulating their emotions may use food as a source of comfort, distraction, or reward, and may feel out of control when they eat.
Cognition
Loss of control eating may be influenced by distorted thoughts and beliefs about food, weight, and shape, such as “I must be thin to be happy”, “I am a failure if I eat too much”, or “I can’t stop eating once I start”.
These thoughts may trigger or reinforce loss of control of eating behaviors.
Environment
Loss of control of eating may be affected by external factors, such as the availability and accessibility of food, social pressure, cultural norms, media messages, or traumatic events.
These factors may increase one’s exposure to food cues, expectations, or stressors, and may influence one’s eating habits and attitudes.
What Are the Signs of Loss of Control Eating?
Loss of control eating can manifest in different ways, depending on the type and severity of the eating disorder. However, some of the common signs and symptoms are:
- Eating a large amount of food in a short period, often in secret or when not hungry
- Feeling unable to stop or limit the amount or type of food one is eating
- Feeling guilty, ashamed, or disgusted after eating
- Having a distorted or negative view of one’s weight and shape and a fear of gaining weight
- Engaging in compensatory behaviors, such as vomiting, laxative use, excessive exercise, or fasting, to prevent weight gain or relieve guilt
- Having irregular or absent menstrual periods (in people who would typically menstruate)
- Experiencing physical complications, such as stomach pain, constipation, dental problems, fatigue, or heart problems
- Having psychological distress, such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, or suicidal thoughts
How to Overcome Loss of Control Eating?
Loss of control eating is a treatable condition, and there are various options available to help one recover from it. Some of the possible treatment options are:
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy is a form of counseling that aims to help one understand and change the underlying causes and consequences of loss of control eating.
It can also help one develop healthier coping skills, improve one’s self-image, and enhance one’s emotional regulation.
Some of the common types of psychotherapy for loss of control eating are cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), and family-based therapy (FBT).
Medication
Medication may be prescribed to help one manage the physical and mental symptoms of loss of control eating, such as appetite, mood, or anxiety.
Some of the common types of medication for loss of control eating are antidepressants, anticonvulsants, or appetite suppressants. However, medication should always be used in conjunction with psychotherapy, and under the supervision of a medical professional.
Nutrition counseling
Nutrition counseling is a form of education and guidance that aims to help one restore a balanced and adequate diet and to normalize one’s eating patterns and behaviors.
It can also help one learn about the nutritional needs and effects of food on the body, and to challenge the myths and misconceptions about food, weight, and shape.
A registered dietitian can provide nutrition counseling and tailor a meal plan according to one’s individual needs and preferences.
Support groups
Support groups are a form of peer support that aims to provide a safe and supportive environment for people who share similar experiences and challenges with loss of control eating.
It can also help one feel less isolated, gain insight and perspective, and receive encouragement and feedback from others. Support groups can be either online or in-person, and can be led by a professional or a peer.
Conclusion
Loss of control eating is a serious and complex condition that can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. It can have detrimental effects on one’s physical and mental health, and can interfere with one’s daily functioning and well-being.
However, loss of control eating is not a sign of weakness or a personal flaw, but rather a coping mechanism that can be changed with proper help and support.
If you or someone you know is struggling with loss of control eating, do not hesitate to reach out for help. There are many resources and professionals available to help you overcome this condition and regain control over your eating and your life.
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