Symptoms of Compulsive overeating

Behavioural/psychological symptoms;

Compulsive eating done in secret, perhaps eat ‘normal’ amounts socially. "Grazing" continuously, not often induced by hunger, rarely cease when feeling full. Compulsive eating when stressed or feeling unable to or uncertain how to cope. Feeling unable to control how much/frequently they eat daily.  Experimenting with different diets and often struggling with them. Depression, panic attacks, despair, loss of concentration and feelings of apprehension. Isolation of themselves with a fear of eating around and with others. A belief that life will be better if they can lose weight. Hiding/ storing food in strange places (closets, cabinets, draws, suitcases, under the bed) to eat alone later. Vague/secretive eating patterns.  Self-diminishing remarks after meals or any food consumption. Any failure in social/professional community is attributed to their weight.
A belief that food is their only friend. A decrease in sexual desires or promiscuous behaviours.

Physiological symptoms and health risks;

The following symptoms are predominantly caused by the individual being overweight and also by their unbalance, unhealthy diet.

Risk of heart attack (usually from being overweight) High blood pressure High cholesterol Kidney disease/failure Arthritis and bone deterioration Risk of stroke Many types of cancer Gall bladder disease Joint and back pain Insomnia and irregular sleeping patterns Diabetes




Excessive sweating and shortness of breath.

 

General fatigue.

Blood sugar fluctuations cause cravings, headaches, stomach aches and the inability to cope with hot and cold temperatures.  Frequently out of breath after relatively light activities.

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