What is a Binge Eating Episode?

Many people deal with binge eating episodes, and it's useful to know what they are, why they happen, and how binge eating disorder treatment can help. If you are struggling with binge eating, you might feel like something is wrong with you and why you can't seem to get a handle on it. Binge eating is much more complex than that, and going into more depth can help you make more sense of it

A binge episode is when a person eats excessive food in a short time. During this episode, it feels out of control and happens quickly. This can happen to those who have been restricting or dieting for a long period of time or it can happen with mental and emotional restriction. A binge eating episode is often associated with eating disorders, especially binge eating disorder (BED).

Symptoms of a binge eating episode: 

• Excessive Food Intake: The person consumes a larger quantity of food in a short period of time. 

• Rapid Eating: Binge episodes often involve eating quickly and without a normal pace, making this type of behavior different than eating other meals. 

• Lack of Control: During a binge episode, people often feel a sense of losing control over their eating. They may find it difficult to stop eating, even if they want to.

• Emotional Distress: Binge eating is often accompanied by distress, guilt, shame, or regret during or after the episode.

It's important to know that binge eating, where a person eats a lot in a short time, can be a sign of different eating disorders like BED or bulimia nervosa. How often and how bad these episodes are can vary between people and may cause serious physical and mental issues. If you keep struggling with binge episodes, it's a good idea to get help from an eating disorder therapist. This behavior might show there's a deeper issue impacting your mental health. 

Understanding more about binge eating disorder

There are some differences between a single binge eating episode, (which is also different than overeating) and binge eating disorder. Having an occasional episode of binge eating doesn’t mean someone has an eating disorder but it might mean therapy could be helpful. Here are some things to consider 

Triggers and Feelings:

• Sometimes, our eating habits can be influenced by emotions, the environment, or situations.

• Stress, boredom, sadness, or even happy events can lead to moments where we eat more.

• Our emotions play a big part in how we eat. Some people might use food to cope with feelings or to take a break from unpleasant emotions.

How Often and How Long:

• If someone is dealing with a situation where they keep having binge eating episodes, it might be called binge eating disorder (BED).

• For BED, these moments need to happen at least once a week for three months to get a diagnosis.

• How often and how long this happens can be different for each person.

Understanding a Binge Eating Disorder Diagnosis:

• Eating disorder professionals use certain rules, like those in the DSM-5, to figure out if someone has a binge eating disorder.

• These rules include regularly binging,  feeling out of control, and feeling upset about it.

Getting Help

• Helping with BED usually involves different ways of support.

• Talking to someone, like a binge eating disorder therapist, can help understand feelings and thoughts about eating.

• Learning about how our body naturally tells us when to eat can be part of recovering

Binge Eating Disorder Treatment: 

• You can get can get better with the right help and support.

• An eating disorder therapist and dietitian along with friends and family, can be part of eating disorder recovery. 

• If you or someone you know is struggling with binge eating,  talking to an eating disorder professional can be a good idea. They can understand the situation and make a plan to help your unique needs

Binge eating disorder treatment in Utah can help

You might feel embarrassed or ashamed to reach out for your struggles with binging. I know it's hard and it's scary to be open about what you're struggling with. I get it and as an eating disorder therapist, I want to help you find a way to get better. I know how important it is to improve your relationship with food and stop the cycle of binge eating. If you've been struggling with binge eating for a while, you might feel hopeless but I promise you can feel better. Working through painful emotions and binge eating is no joke but I know it's worth it. Reaching out to begin binge eating disorder treatment in Utah can change everything for the better. 

Start working with an eating disorder therapist in Utah today

You don’t have to keep feeling this way. You don’t have to keep hating yourself and feeling miserable after a binge. You can find relief from all of it. Binge eating disorder treatment can help. This Utah Eating Disorder Clinic has an eating disorder therapist who specializes in treating binge eating disorders. To begin therapy follow the steps below: 

1. Schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation 

2. Meet with a binge eating disorder therapist

3. Begin recovering from binge eating 

About the Author 

Ashlee Hunt, LCSW, is the dedicated owner of Maple Canyon Therapy in Utah. Holding dual bachelor's degrees in psychology and family life and human development from Southern Utah University in Cedar City, Utah, Ashlee has a comprehensive understanding of both individual and family dynamics. She furthered her education with a master's degree in social work from Utah State University in Logan, Utah, enhancing her expertise in providing compassionate and effective therapeutic support. With a wealth of experience, Ashlee has worked across all levels of care for eating disorders

Why Do I Binge Eat Sweets?

There’s nothing wrong with eating sweets. I need to be clear about that from the start. Binging on sweets and not just overeating occasionally I can imagine might be causing you some problems. I’ve heard people make jokes about how they wish they could binge on something “healthy” like vegetables but they don’t, they binge on carbohydrates and foods considered “sweets”. The reason for this is that biologically our bodies are wired to seek high-energy foods after dieting and restriction. Foods like sweets also trigger the reward system of the brain. While it may seem frustrating, cravings for these types of foods is normal. Let’s talk more about why that is and how binge eating disorder treatment can help if you’re stuck in a cycle of binging. 

Emotional Eating:

Stress or Anxiety: When we're stressed or anxious, we might turn to sweets for comfort. The sweet taste and good feelings from eating these types of foods can make us feel better temporarily, creating a link between our mood and what we eat.

Reward System: It could be that at some point in your life, sweets are often seen as treats or rewards. When we feel we deserve a treat or need a pick-me-up, we might go for sweets as a way of rewarding ourselves. This connection can lead to overeating, especially when we're feeling emotionally vulnerable. It’s important to know that sweets are not “bad” and this is a natural response for many people. 

Dietary Restriction:

Deprivation: If we restrict ourselves from certain foods, like sweets, it can make us feel deprived. When we finally have access to these foods, our cravings may become stronger, triggering episodes of eating a lot to make up for what we felt we missed.

Unmet Nutritional Needs:

Imbalanced Diet: Not getting enough essential nutrients might make our bodies crave sweet foods for a quick energy boost. We might end up reaching for sweets as a fast and easy way to satisfy this need. If there’s been a period of restriction or dieting, which often results in binges then biologically your body may crave this type of food. 

Mindless Eating:

Lack of Awareness: Eating sweets without paying full attention can lead to mindless eating. When we're not aware of how much we're eating, it's easy to overeat or binge on sweets without realizing it. 

Diet Culture:

Negative Relationship with Food: Society sometimes labels certain foods as "good" or "bad” “unhealthy” or “healthy”.  Feeling guilty or ashamed about eating sweets with negative labels can make us rebel by binge eating them.

Biological Factors:

Blood Sugar Fluctuations: Changes in our blood sugar levels can make us crave sugary foods. These changes may happen due to irregular eating patterns or inadequate food intake. 

In conclusion, intuitive eating suggests a balanced and flexible approach to food that considers both our physical and emotional needs. Developing kindness and curiosity about why we crave sweets is essential for building a healthier relationship with food. If needed, getting support from professionals who specialize in intuitive eating or eating disorders can provide personalized guidance on this journey.

Dieting can increase cravings 

After a period of dieting, it's entirely normal to experience an increased craving for sweets. Restrictive diets often create a sense of deprivation, making the allure of forbidden foods, particularly sweet treats, stronger. Intuitive eating recognizes these cravings as a natural response to the body's need for satisfaction and balance. During dieting, the body may have missed out on certain tastes and nutrients, triggering a desire for the pleasurable and energy-dense qualities that sweets provide. In an intuitive eating framework, acknowledging and honoring these cravings without judgment is a crucial step in rebuilding a healthy relationship with food. Rather than viewing sweet cravings as a failure, intuitive eating encourages individuals to listen to their bodies, understand their cravings, and make choices that align with both physical and emotional well-being.

Binge Eating Disorder Treatment in Utah can help you stop binging 

Therapy with a binge eating disorder therapist is a crucial resource when you are grappling with binge eating. Going to therapy can give you a safe and compassionate space to understand yourself and your cycle of binge eating. It can be e scary to reach out for help when you are embarrassed of your behaviors but you don’t have to worry about being judged. The goal of binge eating disorder treatment is to help you feel better and to find ways to binge less and less. There’s a reason you are struggling with binging and it’s not because there’s anything wrong with you. Working with an eating disorder therapist can help you unravel all the confusion you have about your struggle and find different ways of dealing with painful emotions. 

Start working with an eating disorder therapist in Utah 

You can find relief from binge eating. You don’t have to feel stuck in this loop. You can have a better relationship with food and your body and binge eating disorder treatment can help. This Utah Eating Disorder Clinic has an eating disorder therapist specializing in binge eating disorder. To begin counseling follow the steps below: 

1. Schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation 

2. Meet with a binge eating disorder therapist

3. Begin feeling better 

About the Author 

Ashlee Hunt, LCSW, is the dedicated owner of Maple Canyon Therapy in Utah. Holding two bachelor's degrees, one in psychology and another in family life and human development, both earned from Southern Utah University in Cedar City, Utah, Ashlee has laid a strong foundation in understanding the complexities of human behavior and relationships. Further enhancing her expertise, she obtained a master's degree in social work from Utah State University in Logan, Utah. With a wealth of experience, Ashlee has worked across all levels of care for eating disorders, demonstrating a deep commitment to supporting women on their journey to recovery. Her focus primarily centers on working specifically with women, reflecting her passion for providing specialized and compassionate care in the realm of mental health and eating disorders.

Why Do People Binge After Restriction?

If you are currently struggling with binge eating, it can be puzzling to understand why you can’t seem to shake off binge eating when you have proven to yourself you can be disciplined with dieting. It’s important to understand why your response is normal after restricting food or dieting. Let’s talk about some of the common reasons for binging after dieting and how binge eating disorder treatment can help. 

Common Reasons for binging after a diet 

The following reasons can help you make sense of why you’ve been led to binge after dieting or restriction. You will also have unique reasons that are personal to you that may not be listed below. 

Deprivation:

When we go on diets or restrict certain foods, it can create a sense of deprivation. This deprivation triggers a psychological response where the forbidden foods become more tempting and desirable. Telling ourselves we can't have something, will increase cravings.  When the restriction ends, there's a strong inclination to overeat on those previously restricted foods. This is truly a normal response when you’ve been dieting or only allowing yourself certain foods. It doesn’t mean you are weak or lacking in self-control. 

Listening to Hunger and Fullness:

Diets often come with strict rules about when and what to eat. These rules or guidelines can cause us to ignore our body's natural signals of hunger and fullness. Intuitive eating encourages us to reconnect with these signals. However, after a period of not paying attention to these cues, there can be a lack of awareness when we finally start listening again. Not only that but your body will have likely stopped sending you hunger and fullness signals during dieting because it lacked the energy to. It will take some time for your body to be able to send this information again. This may lead to overeating because we're not attuned to our body's signals.

Emotional Eating:

Diets typically focus on the nutritional aspects of food and may neglect the emotional connection we have with what we eat. When we stop restricting, suppressed emotions may surface. Food can become a way to cope with these emotions. If emotional eating isn't addressed, it can lead to overeating or binging as a means of soothing or distracting from emotional discomfort.

Permission to Eat:

Intuitive eating encourages us to give ourselves permission to enjoy all kinds of foods without guilt. After a period of strict dieting, where certain foods are labeled as "bad" or off-limits, there can be a psychological rebound effect. When given permission to eat those foods again, there might be a feeling of needing to consume them in larger quantities, almost like making up for lost time or indulging before the restriction starts again.

Practicing intuitive eating can help stop binging

Intuitive eating helps people stop binge eating by teaching them to pay close attention to their bodies and their needs and emotions. Intuitive eating places emphasis on building a positive relationship with food, free from the constraints of strict diets. It involves learning to trust our body's signals, understanding our emotional connection to food, and giving ourselves the freedom to enjoy a variety of foods without judgment. Intuitive eating considers both the physical and emotional aspects of eating for overall well-being. It lessens the feeling of missing out on certain foods, which often triggers binge eating after a period of restraint. Intuitive eating also says it's okay to enjoy all kinds of foods without feeling guilty

Binge Eating Disorder Treatment in Utah for binge eating 

Getting help from an eating disorder therapist can make all the difference in stopping binge eating. A binge eating disorder therapist will create a safe space for you to figure out the reasons you binge eat. In binge eating disorder treatment, you can learn about what triggers your binge eating and find different ways to deal with stress and emotions. Eating disorder therapists use techniques that help change negative thoughts about food and negative body image, making your mindset more positive. Working with a therapist can help you understand more about the root causes that started your cycle of binge eating and develop more self-compassion for yourself. 

Start working with an eating disorder therapist in Utah 

If you find yourself trapped in the cycle of binge eating, seeking the support of binge eating disorder treatment can be an important step in feeling better. This Utah Eating Disorder Clinic has an eating disorder therapist who specializes in binge eating disorder. To start therapy follow the steps below: 

1. Schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation 

2. Meet with a binge eating disorder therapist

3. Find relief from the cycle of binging

About the Author

Ashlee Hunt, LCSW, is the dedicated owner of Maple Canyon Therapy, an online eating disorder clinic in Utah.  bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her practice. Holding dual bachelor's degrees in Psychology and Family Life and Human Development from Southern Utah University in Cedar City, Ashlee's academic foundation provided her with a comprehensive understanding of the intricate dynamics of human behavior and relationships. She continued her academic journey by earning a Master's degree in Social Work from Utah State University in Logan, Utah. With a passion for mental health and a commitment to making a positive impact, Ashlee has garnered extensive experience working in all levels of care for eating disorders.

What is Binge Eating?

Binge eating can be a painful and embarrassing struggle for those who experience it, and it is much more than overeating occasionally.  Those who struggle with binge eating often find themselves caught in a cycle of eating food quickly, in secret, and reaching an uncomfortable level of fullness, This is a distressing experience for those who struggle with binging and they feel completely out of control. The foods they binge on are often the foods they have deemed "bad" or "unhealthy" and typically don't allow themselves to eat outside of a binge. Binging can provide temporary relief or distraction from stress or other painful emotions. Uncovering all of this in binge eating disorder treatment helps those struggles understand themselves better.

People engaging in binge eating might eat in secrecy because they feel embarrassed or ashamed of this kind of eating.  The aftermath of a binge episode is typically filled with negative emotions including guilt, regret, disgust, and self-criticism. These emotions can contribute to a vicious cycle, as some people may turn to binge eating as a way to cope with negative emotions, creating a challenging pattern to break

People who meet the criteria for binge eating disorder will have binge episodes occurring at least once a week for about three months and are truly binge eating and not just occasional overeating. It's important to recognize that binge eating is more than a matter of willpower or lack of self-discipline; Binge eating is complex and often requires the support of an eating disorder therapist and other treatment providers. d recovery. Addressing underlying issues that contribute to binge eating episodes is important to understand in binge eating disorder treatment. 

What are the symptoms of binge eating disorder?

Binge eating disorder has some clear signs or symptoms that can help identify it. Here are some things to look out for:

• Frequent Overeating: People with binge eating disorder often eat large amounts of food for their norm within a relatively short time, like a couple of hours.

• Lack of Control: During these eating episodes, they might feel like they can't control how much they eat or stop themselves, even if they want to.

• Fast Eating: Binge eaters tend to eat rapidly, consuming a significant amount of food from what is typical for them to eat normally, quickly, often beyond the point of feeling comfortably full.

• Eating When Not Hungry: They might eat even when they are not physically hungry and continue eating even after feeling full.

• Emotional Distress: Binge eating is often linked with emotional distress, such as feeling upset, guilty, or ashamed after the episode.

• Secrecy and Isolation: Some people with binge eating disorder may eat in secret due to feelings of embarrassment or shame about their eating habits.

• Regular Occurrence: Unlike occasional overeating, binge eating episodes happen regularly, at least once a week, for about three months.

It's important to remember that everyone's experience may vary, and not everyone with a binge eating disorder will show all of these symptoms. If someone is concerned about their eating habits or someone they know, it's important to see how a binge eating disorder therapist to receive a diagnosis and treatment. 

Binge Eating Disorder Treatment in Utah can help you with binging

Getting therapy for binge eating is a crucial step, especially if you're dealing with feelings of embarrassment, being stuck, and self-hatred. Talking to an eating disorder therapist offers a safe and understanding space where you won't be judged. Eating disorder therapy can help you untangle why binge eating happens and guide you toward different ways to cope with your emotions. It's a way to break free from the binge cycle that's causing you pain and making you feel stuck. Binge eating disorder treatment is not about something being wrong with you—it's about finding support to overcome the struggles, ease the embarrassment, and build a path toward a better relationship with yourself and food.

Start working with an eating disorder therapist in Utah 

You don’t have to keep struggling with binging. You don’t have to keep hating yourself or feeling embarrassed for struggling. Binge eating disorder treatment can help. This Utah Eating Disorder Clinic has a binge eating disorder therapist that treats binge eating disorder. To begin counseling follow the steps below: 

1. Schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation 

2. Meet with a therapist for eating disorders

3. Begin changing your relationship with food

Online Eating Disorder Therapy in Utah 

Online therapy for eating disorders is a great choice for several reasons. Online Therapy in Utah lets you have eating disorder therapy in a private and comfortable space, like your own home, which is important when dealing with something personal like an eating disorder. You can access expert help no matter where you are, making it convenient. This is especially helpful if you feel embarrassed or self-conscious, as the virtual setting allows for open and honest talks with the therapist. 

Online counseling also means I work with clients all over the state of Utah including St. George, Cedar City, Provo, Heber City, Salt Lake City, Logan, and more. 

About the Author 

Ashlee Hunt, LCSW, is the owner of Maple Canyon Therapy in Utah, exclusively specializing in supporting women. Holding dual bachelor's degrees in psychology and family life and human development from Southern Utah University in Cedar City, Utah, Ashlee's academic foundation reflects her commitment to understanding both individual and family dynamics. Further enhancing her expertise, she earned a master's degree in social work from Utah State University in Logan, Utah. With a comprehensive background, Ashlee has worked in various levels of care for eating disorders, focusing her efforts on providing dedicated and tailored support for women navigating anxiety and body image issues. Her commitment to empowering women and fostering mental well-being underscores her role as a trusted and knowledgeable professional in the field.

A Guide to ADHD and Binge Eating

If you or someone you love struggles with binge eating, you might wonder if it’s related to diagnosed or undiagnosed ADHD. Living with ADHD and binge eating can make every single day hard for those who are struggling. You might feel like your thoughts are always racing, making it hard to focus, and then dealing with intense emotions that swing back and forth. You might find it hard to control being impulsive, and sometimes that leads to binge eating. It's frustrating when you don't want to keep doing this but the urge to binge feels overpowering and it happens so fast, leaving you feeling guilty and ashamed afterward. The cycle of feeling out of control with eating and struggling with ADHD symptoms can lead to a rollercoaster of emotions, affecting your self-esteem and overall mental health. You might feel isolated, wondering if anyone truly understands the daily struggle of dealing with both ADHD and binge eating. Binge eating disorder treatment can help in managing both. 

Having ADHD can impact your life in many ways. Many have wondered if there is a connection between ADHD and binge eating. It's like a knot in your life where things like being impulsive, having strong emotions, and struggling to focus can sometimes lead to eating too much at once. Dealing with both ADHD and binge eating can make things feel overwhelming. Understanding how these two things are linked helps us figure out why binge eating happens and how it affects you. Learning about this connection can be a big help in managing both ADHD and binge eating, making life a bit easier overall. It's not just knowing they're linked; it's about finding ways to support you if you're, dealing with both ADHD and binge eating, so you can understand and handle things better.

Are people with ADHD more likely to binge eat?

Having ADHD might make some people more likely to struggle with binge eating. It can be linked to difficulties with self-control and managing emotions, which can make it more difficult to be in tune with their hunger and fullness. Some people with ADHD might turn to food for comfort or to cope with feelings of restlessness or stress. However, not everyone with ADHD will have binge eating issues—it varies from person to person. Getting help and support, like binge eating disorder treatment or eating disorder therapy can make a difference. 

Is there a correlation between ADHD and overeating?

​​Yes, there can be a connection between ADHD and overeating. Some people with ADHD might struggle with overeating or irregular eating patterns. This can be because ADHD can affect self-regulation, making it challenging to manage impulses, including those related to eating. Additionally, difficulties in attention and focus might lead to forgetfulness around meals, and irregular eating schedules, causing irregular eating habits. Not eating consistently will lead to more intense cravings and hunger, which may lead to eating past fullness. While not everyone with ADHD experiences overeating, for some, it can be a way to cope with emotions or stress. Understanding this correlation can help people with ADHD develop strategies to manage eating habits and seek support. 

Does binging mask ADHD?

Binging itself doesn't mask ADHD, but it might sometimes be linked to ADHD symptoms that haven't been diagnosed. Binging—overeating in a short time with a loss of control—can sometimes be a response to emotions or stress, which can be more common in those with ADHD. Sometimes, people might use food to cope with feelings related to ADHD, like rejection, stress, or frustration. However, binging doesn't hide or cover up ADHD itself; instead, it might be a behavior connected to how someone copes with their ADHD symptoms or emotions. Understanding this link can help find ways to manage both ADHD and any related eating concerns.

do people with ADHD use binging as a way to cope?

Yes, some people with ADHD might use binging as a way to cope with their emotions or challenges linked to ADHD. Binge eating can be a way of dealing with emotions or even a way of procrastinating something that isn't rewarding to those with ADHD. It might temporarily provide comfort or a distraction from these feelings. However, not everyone with ADHD copes in this way—each person's response and coping methods can be different.            

 Binge eating as a coping skill isn't something just those with ADHD do. Many people, regardless of whether they have ADHD or not, might turn to binge eating as a way to deal with tough emotions. It can be a response to stress, sadness, or other difficult feelings, providing temporary comfort or distraction to many people regardless of diagnosis.  While some people with ADHD might use binge eating to cope, it's essential to recognize that many others, without ADHD also engage in this behavior as a way of managing painful emotions

Why do people with ADHD binge eat at night?

Several factors might contribute to those with ADHD tending to binge eat at night. Firstly, the evening hours might be when the effects of ADHD, such as difficulties in managing impulses or emotions, become more noticeable or challenging to handle. As the day winds down, stressors might accumulate, making it harder to regulate eating habits. Additionally, for some people with ADHD, the structure and routine of the day may begin to fade in the evenings, leading to less structured eating patterns or more impulsivity.  Lack of structure or routine can sometimes trigger binge eating. NIghtime can be a time when there are fewer distractions, which might bring up stronger emotions or restlessness, making it more likely to seek comfort through binge eating.

Nighttime binge eating isn't exclusive to those with ADHD; it's a pattern that many people who struggle with binge eating experience, whether they have ADHD or not. Evening hours often come with a sense of relaxation or winding down after the day. This time can trigger emotional eating habits or a binge episode for many people especially those who have been dieting or restrdicting.  The stress of the day, feeling tired or low in energy, or having more free time at night can make you more vulnerable to binging at nighttime. People who feel tired, boredom, or other emotions tend to surface during quieter nighttime hours, prompting some to turn to food for comfort or distraction. The lack of external demands or responsibilities at night might also make it easier for some to binge eat. 

Do people with ADHD get fixated on certain foods?

Yes, it's common for some individuals with ADHD to become fixated on specific foods. This fixation can stem from symptoms of ADHD, which might involve having intense interests or preferences. Sometimes, these fixations extend to certain foods, often those that offer instant gratification or sensory experience.  Eating these foods can trigger the brain's reward system, providing a sense of comfort or pleasure, which might be particularly appealing to those with ADHD who seek stimulation or struggle with being impulsive.  However, not everyone with ADHD experiences this fixation, and the intensity or type of fixation on certain foods is different for everyone. 

Sometimes, people with ADHD might really want certain foods because they were told they couldn't have them before. When there were strict rules about what they could eat, these foods became super appealing. So now, when they can have those foods, they might really, really want them a lot. It's like they're making up for not having them before. This strong desire for specific foods can stick around because of past dieting or restrictions

Some people with ADHD might only eat certain foods because they want to lose weight t or because they think those foods are healthier. Being focused on only eating certain foods can come from a belief that foods are "good" or "bad. They might believe it'll help them lose weight fast or improve their body image. This kind of eating can look like how someone with an eating disorder acts—strict rules about what they eat. However, not everyone with ADHD who eats this way has an eating disorder. It might just mean they need some help to have a healthier approach to food and eating.

Some people with ADHD might limit their food choices because of a condition called ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder). This eating disorder can make someone very picky about what they eat, often due to sensory issues, worries about the food's taste or texture, or fears of choking or getting sick. For those with ADHD, these challenges might overlap, making it harder to try new foods or feel comfortable eating a variety of foods. This selective eating might seem like pickiness, but it's more complex and could be related to ARFID, where certain foods are avoided or restricted, leading to a limited diet. 

Why do people with ADHD have cravings?

People with ADHD might experience cravings for a few reasons. One reason is related to dopamine, a chemical in the brain that helps regulate emotions and pleasure. In ADHD, there can be differences in dopamine levels or how the brain uses dopamine, leading to eating foods that provide instant pleasure or satisfaction. Cravings might also stem from difficulties in coping with emotions or controlling impulses. Sometimes, specific foods can trigger the brain's reward system, providing a temporary sense of comfort or pleasure, which can be appealing for someone with ADHD seeking this. These cravings might also be linked to trying to manage stress or restlessness, where certain foods might feel like they quickly get rid of those feelings temporarily.

Binge eating disorder treatment in Utah to help you stop binge eating

Binge eating disorder treatment can help you if you have ADHD and struggle with binge eating. It's not just about changing how you eat—it's about understanding your feelings and urges better. For someone with ADHD, handling these feelings can be hard, but therapy teaches you ways to manage these big emotions without turning to binge eating.  Eating disorder therapy also helps you create more structure in your life and in turn prevent binge eating episodes. Working with an eating disorder therapist can help you with the tools and support to manage both ADHD and binge eating, so you can feel better about food and yourself.

Start working with an eating disorder therapist in Utah 

You don’t have to keep struggling in the cycle of binge eating over and over again. You don’t have to wake up every morning committing to do better only to binge again that night. Binge eating disorder treatment can help you get out of this cycle. This Utah Eating Disorder Clinic has a binge eating disorder therapist who specializes in binge eating disorder. To begin counseling follow the steps below: 

1. Schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation 

2. Meet with an eating disorder therapist 

3. Find relief from binge eating

Online eating disorder therapy in Utah 

Choosing online therapy in Utah can be a game-changer for your eating disorder recovery. It offers you the ability to be more flexible with your schedule and you don't have to travel far to meet with an eating disorder therapist who has the specialized training to help you get better. You can meet with a therapist from the comfort and convenience of your own space. Whether you're managing an eating disorder alongside ADHD or seeking help for any eating concerns, online therapy provides a safe and confidential space to explore emotions, find better ways of coping, and build a positive relationship with food. Take this step towards healing and discover the support you deserve, right at your fingertips.

Online counseling also means I work with women anywhere in Utah. I work with clients in St. George, Cedar City, Provo, Heber City, Salt Lake City, Logan, and more. 

About the Author 

Ashlee Hunt, LCSW, is the dedicated founder of Maple Canyon Therapy, a practice committed to providing comprehensive care in Utah. With extensive experience in treating eating disorders, Ashlee brings a wealth of expertise and a heartfelt commitment to assisting individuals on their path to recovery.

Ashlee earned dual bachelor's degrees in Psychology and Family Life and Human Development from Southern Utah University. Furthering her education, she obtained a master's degree in Social Work from Utah State University, solidifying her foundation in mental health treatment.

Throughout her career, Ashlee has worked across all levels of eating disorder treatment, gaining valuable experience in various therapeutic settings. Her specialized focus on treating binge eating disorder has been central to her practice. Ashlee's comprehensive approach, rooted in empathy and understanding, enables her to effectively support individuals struggling with binge eating disorder.

Recognizing the importance of accessibility in mental health care, Ashlee has integrated online therapy into her practice, extending her services to individuals throughout Utah. Her dedication to providing quality therapy, combined with her expertise in eating disorder treatment, makes her a compassionate and trusted resource for those seeking support on their journey toward healing.

Do People with ADHD Use Binging as a Way to Cope?

People with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) use different ways to cope with their emotions, and some may turn to binge eating or overeating as a way to deal with painful emotions or stress. While everyone with ADHD has different struggles, there are some common reasons why this happens. For example, certain foods can affect mood by releasing feel-good chemicals in the brain. This can happen to anyone not just those with ADHD. Those with ADHD may experience it at a different level and eating specific foods might provide a temporary sense of comfort and improve their mood temporarily. Those with ADHD often have lower levels of dopamine, a chemical in the brain linked to pleasure. Eating certain foods can quickly boost dopamine levels, giving a brief but enjoyable reward and creating a pattern where food is used to handle emotions or find pleasure. Binge eating disorder treatment can help those with ADHD cope differently, understand their emotions better, and have a better relationship with food.

Reasons why those with ADHD might use binge eating to cope

Not everyone with ADHD must use binge eating as a way to cope. It’s also important to know that people use binging or overeating to cope, and they don’t have ADHD. These are some common reasons why those with ADHD might struggle with binge eating. It doesn’t mean these will apply to you but they  might: 

• Hyperfocus: People with ADHD can get super focused on something they like. This intense focus might lead to binge-like behaviors, where they spend a lot of time on one thing.

• Doing Things without Thinking: ADHD comes with impulsivity, which means doing things without planning. This can include eating a lot or doing activities excessively without thinking about it.

• Trying to Feel Good: ADHD is linked to lower levels of dopamine, a chemical that makes us feel good. Bingeing on things that give instant pleasure, like eating certain foods or doing fun activities, might be an attempt to feel happier.

• Dealing with Tough Times: Managing ADHD can be hard. Bingeing might be a way to take a break from stress or problems for a little bit. It's like a way to comfort themselves or handle strong feelings.

• Wanting Some Order: People with ADHD might find it hard to have routines. Bingeing on certain activities can make them feel more in control and give a break from the usual challenges.

Binge eating disorder treatment in Utah can help you manage ADHD and binge eating

Getting help for binge eating disorder can make a big difference for those dealing with ADHD. Treatment offers understanding yourself better, different ways of coping, and understanding your underlying emotions.  You might feel embarrassed that you binge and because of that you've tried to figure out how to stop all on your own.  You don't have to do that. Working with an eating disorder therapist means you don't have to do it alone. Going to therapy means you should feel safe and can let go of the shame of binge eating. 

Begin working with an eating disorder therapist in Utah

You can find relief from binge eating. You don’t have to wake up and hate yourself the next day. You can find freedom from hating your body and not trusting yourself with food. Binge eating disorder treatment can help. This Utah Eating Disorder Clinic has an eating disorder therapist who specializes in binge eating disorder. To begin counseling follow the steps below: 

1. Schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation 

2. Meet with a binge eating disorder therapist

3. Start improving your relationship with food

About the Author

Ashlee Hunt, LCSW, is the founder of Maple Canyon Therapy which was originally located off of Main Street across from the 711 in Spanish Fork, Utah. However, Ashlee now provides online eating disorder therapy all throughout Utah. Ashlee is eager to support women in their mental health journey. With a focus on treating eating disorders, Ashlee holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and a Bachelor's degree in Family Life and Human Development, both earned from Southern Utah University. Her commitment to understanding the complexities of human behavior led her to pursue a Master's degree in Social Work from Utah State University.

Does Binging Mask ADHD?

Digging into the question of whether binge eating can hide ADHD symptoms is really important, and it depends on several different things. It's crucial to understand that binge eating probably doesn't directly cover up ADHD; instead, there seems to be a connection between binge-eating behaviors and some ADHD symptoms that might not have been officially identified yet. Regardless if ADHD is playing a role in your binge eating, therapy can help you. Binge eating disorder treatment is all about uncovering different areas in your life that might be related to your binge eating. 

Binge eating, where you eat a lot quickly and feel out of control, is often linked to emotions and stress. Imagine it as more than just satisfying hunger it's about coping with your feelings. Even when you don't realize you are using food to cope with emotions, it might be happening. Those dealing with ADHD might find they struggle with binge eating at a different level. 

Sometimes, people with ADHD might resort to binge eating as a way to cope with emotions connected to their ADHD symptoms such as rejection, stress, or frustration. But it's important to emphasize that binging isn't a disguise for ADHD itself. Instead, it's a behavior connected to how individuals handle their ADHD symptoms and the emotions that come with them.

Coping with ADHD and Binge Eating

Effectively managing ADHD and binge eating is about finding coping skills that genuinely work for you. Learning how to deal with your emotions and changing negative beliefs about yourself is crucial in stopping binge eating. Binge eating often connects with emotional struggles and how you see yourself. To break this cycle, it's important to recognize and handle the emotions that lead to binge eating, like stress or sadness. Also, it involves facing and changing the negative thoughts you have about yourself that might be a big part of why you use binging to cope. 

For those with ADHD who struggle with binge eating, learning to be intuitive eaters can make a big difference. Intuitive eating means paying attention to your body's signals, understanding when you're hungry or full, and having a mindful approach to food. ADHD can add challenges to eating because of impulsivity and emotional struggles. Becoming an intuitive eater involves being more aware of what emotions trigger binge eating and recognizing the body's signals for hunger and satisfaction. Seeking guidance from an eating disorder therapist through binge eating disorder treatment can help you break free of binge eating but it can help you manage your ADHD better. 

Binge Eating Disorder Treatment in Utah for ADHD and binge eating 

Receiving therapy from an eating disorder specialist can be highly beneficial for individuals dealing with ADHD and grappling with binge eating. In therapy, collaborative efforts focus on comprehending and managing emotions, particularly those contributing to binge triggers like stress or sadness. Negative self-perceptions are also addressed. Collaborating with a therapist experienced in eating disorders equips individuals with personalized strategies to navigate these challenges effectively. The emphasis is on acquiring practical tools to liberate oneself from the cycle of binge eating. Therapy offers a secure and supportive environment to delve into root causes, aiding in the development of improved coping mechanisms and fostering positive changes. For those seeking a genuine and effective approach to halt binge eating, therapy serves as a valuable resource tailored to unique needs.

Start working with an eating disorder therapist in Utah 

You don’t have to try and keep it together. You don’t have to try and figure this out all by yourself. You can manage your ADHD and binge eating better with the help of binge eating disorder treatment. This Utah Eating Disorder Clinic has an eating disorder therapist who specializes in binge eating disorder. To begin counseling follow the steps below: 

1. Schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation 

2. Meet with a binge eating disorder therapist

3. Begin feeling better

About the Author 

Meet Ashlee Hunt, LCSW, the founder of Maple Canyon Therapy in Utah. With a focus on treating eating disorders, Ashlee has dedicated her career to guiding individuals through their mental health journeys. She holds bachelor's degrees in psychology and family life and human development from Southern Utah University, providing a solid understanding of human behavior and relationships. Furthering her education, Ashlee earned a master's degree in social work from Utah State University, enhancing her skills in the field. Notably, she brings a comprehensive perspective to her practice, having worked at all levels of eating disorder treatment.

Is There a Correlation Between ADHD & Overeating?

Those with ADHD who struggle with overeating or binge eating often feel ashamed or guilty about these eating habits. They feel like something is wrong with them, and they don't understand why they can't get it under control. They might blame themselves or feel embarrassed, leading to a cycle of negative emotions that affect their self-esteem. If you are in this struggle, you don't have to do this alone. Binge eating disorder treatment can make a massive difference. I want to help provide insight into the connection between ADHD and overeating or binge eating. 

ADHD and overeating can go hand in hand. People with ADHD often face challenges with self-regulation, which can spill over into irregular eating patterns. Self-regulation is our ability to manage and control our thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and impulses in different situations. It involves the capacity to monitor and modify our actions, reactions, and attention to goals or respond appropriately in different situations.

Challenges of ADHD and eating

Forgetfulness around meal times due to attention difficulties can disrupt the routine of regular eating schedules. This inconsistency in meal times can throw off the body's hunger and fullness cues. When meals are missed or delayed, the body might compensate by triggering intense hunger and cravings. This is normal for anyone who is not eating regularly. This heightened hunger can lead to overeating or a binge episode. Another thing to keep in mind is that a lack of structure around meals due to attention challenges might lead to mindless eating or grazing throughout the day. There are no morals around this type of eating, and you’re not doing anything wrong or bad because you do it. This type of eating just may increase the likelihood of binging or overeating. Without the focus or awareness of planned meals, individuals with ADHD might snack excessively or consume larger portions during unplanned eating episodes, and this can be physically and emotionally uncomfortable. 

Difficulty with hunger and fullness cues

Some people with ADHD might find it hard to understand when they're hungry or full. This confusion can arise from disruptions in brain chemicals like dopamine and norepinephrine, affecting how the body signals hunger and satisfaction. It's like their "fullness" message doesn't come through clearly, leading to difficulties in knowing when they've eaten enough. Certain brain areas responsible for controlling appetite might not work as well in people with ADHD. This can delay or weaken the signals that tell them they're full, making it tough to judge when to stop eating.

ADHD and Medications

Another point to consider is, that medications used for ADHD, such as stimulants, might also play a role. Some people might feel less hungry when taking these meds, causing them to eat less. On the flip side, as the effects of the medication wear off, others might experience increased hunger or cravings, which could lead to overeating during those periods.

Coping with emotions

When individuals with ADHD feel stressed or experience difficult emotions, they might seek comfort in food to feel better momentarily. They tend to gravitate towards foods that activate the brain's pleasure system, providing a temporary boost in mood and relief. These foods, often ones rich in flavors or textures that they find enjoyable, can create a brief sense of comfort and relief from emotional distress. It's a natural response to seek out these foods as a way to cope with difficult feelings.

However, relying solely on food to manage emotions can make it difficult to feel emotions that need to be felt and explored. The quick relief these foods offer doesn't address the underlying stress or emotions (again nothing wrong with doing this. It’s human), leading to a cycle of seeking similar foods whenever they encounter stress or emotional turmoil. Never using food as a way of coping or self-soothing isn’t realistic nor is it human. However, adding more coping skills to deal with emotions can be helpful. 

Working with an eating disorder therapist is a big part of being able to work through binge episodes and overeating. Binge eating disorder treatment can help you develop skills and understand the underlying reasons you might be binging or overeating.  

Binge eating disorder treatment in Utah can help

If you're in Utah and struggling with a binge eating disorder, seeking treatment can be life-changing, and I'm not being dramatic. Binge eating disorder treatment isn't just about addressing the behaviors; it's about understanding yourself better and working through the shame that can come from how you eat. Working with an eating disorder therapist offers a safe space to unravel all that goes into your relationship with food and eating. I'm here to help you learn to cope and most of all to be more compassionate with yourself. You deserve to find relief from binging. 

Work with an eating disorder therapist in Utah 

You don’t have to feel trapped inside your brain and your body. You don’t have to keep hating yourself for the way you eat. Binge eating disorder treatment can help. This Utah Eating Disorder Clinic has an eating disorder therapist specializing in binge eating disorder. To begin counseling follow the steps below: 

1. Schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation 

2. Meet with a binge eating disorder therapist

3. Start improving your relationship with food

Online eating disorder therapy

Opting for online therapy in Utah presents many advantages.  Firstly, it's remarkably convenient and flexible. No more battling bad weather or traffic jams during commutes. Online counseling allows you to connect with an eating disorder therapist from the comfort of your own space. Most of all,  it eliminates the barrier of not having an eating disorder therapist in your down. Regardless of your location or physical limitations, online therapy makes eating disorder recovery much more accessible.

Online counseling also means I work with clients all over the state of Utah including Heber City, Provo, Logan, Salt Lake City, St. George, Cedar City, and more. 

About the Author

Ashlee Hunt, LCSW, is an eating disorder professional and the founder of Maple Canyon Therapy in Utah originally founded in Spanish Fork, Utah off of Main Street by Glade’s drive-in but is now an online therapy clinic. With extensive experience in treating eating disorders, Ashlee holds dual Bachelor's degrees in Psychology and Family Life and Human Development, both earned from Southern Utah University. Her dedication to the field led her to achieve a Master's degree in Social Work from Utah State University. Ashlee's expertise spans all levels of eating disorder treatment, showcasing her comprehensive understanding and hands-on experience in supporting individuals on their journey to recovery. Her compassionate and client-centered approach solidifies her reputation as a trusted and skilled eating disorder professional, offering empathetic therapy services in Utah.

Are People with ADHD More Likely to Binge Eat?

ADHD can make some people more prone to binge eating. Why? Well, because managing emotions and keeping impulses in check can be more of a struggle when you have ADHD. This can affect their ability to know when they're hungry or full. Many of the women I work with share experiences of eating ice cream and not realizing how it disappeared so quickly. They aren't present with their eating experience, and it all happens so fast that they don't even realize they're past feeling comfortably full. Binge eating disorder treatment uncovers how to stop this cycle but when you’re stuck in it, you feel trapped. 

For some with ADHD, food becomes a go-to comfort when they're feeling restless or stressed. Binge eating for those with ADHD symptoms also might be a way of procrastinating a task they don't want to do. Binge eating fires the reward system in the brain when other tedious tasks don't.  It's like a quick fix to make things feel better for a bit. But not everyone with ADHD deals with binge eating—it's different for each person. 

For some people with ADHD, binge eating can feel good because it gives a quick sense of comfort and pleasure. When they eat a lot in a short time, their brain releases a chemical called dopamine that makes them feel happy. It's like a temporary escape from feeling restless or upset. People with ADHD might have lower levels of dopamine so they might seek activities like eating that will produce dopamine. Binge eating becomes a way to get a fast and enjoyable distraction from the challenges of ADHD. This makes it easy to keep doing it, even though it's not a long-term solution.

For people with ADHD, binge eating can be like a super-focused activity. When they start eating, it takes up all their attention. The experience of eating food becomes so interesting and absorbing that it helps them escape from other things bothering them, like distractions or busy thoughts. This intense focus on eating lets them forget about everything else for a while, giving a feeling of control and concentration that's hard to find in other parts of their life because of ADHD challenges with staying focused and controlling impulses. When they are hyperfocused on eating, they can disregard hunger and fullness cues when they are in this state.

The good news?  There’s help for those who struggle with binging as a result of ADHD. Working with an eating disorder therapist can be a huge tool in feeling better. It's important to remember that even though ADHD and binge eating might be connected for some, not everyone will have this struggle. The key is finding the right kind of support that works best for you. Therapy for binge eating isn’t just about learning to stop binging. It’s about understanding your feelings and finding different ways of coping. 

Binge Eating Disorder Treatment in Utah can help you manage binge eating 

Binge eating disorder treatment in Utah can help you stop your cycle of overeating. It's not just about stopping the binge—it's about digging into why it's happening. Eating disorder therapy gives you tools to manage emotions without feeling like turning to food is your only option. Working with a binge eating disorder therapist helps you understand the reasons behind the urge to overeat.  Learning to eat intuitively is a way to learn how to listen to your body, handle tough feelings, and feel better about yourself. I know it's not easy. It can be discouraging and feels embarrassing to open up to someone about your binging. I can promise you the goal is to make you feel safe and to help you feel better about yourself. 

Work with an Eating Disorder Therapist in Utah to recover from binge eating disorder

You don’t have to keep feeling alone. You don’t have to keep hating yourself when you look at yourself in the mirror. Binge eating disorder treatment can help. This Utah Eating Disorder Clinic has an eating disorder therapist specializing in binge eating disorder. To begin counseling follow the steps below: 

1. Schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation 

2. Meet with a binge eating disorder therapist

3. Start recovering from binge eating disorder 

Online Eating Disorder Therapy in Utah 

Online therapy in Utah is a great option for eating disorder recovery that's just as effective as meeting in person.  Meeting a therapist face to face over video is convenient because you can get help from wherever you feel comfortable, without worrying about travel or location. Studies show that online therapy works really well for treating eating disorders.  Online counseling is private and secure, so you can open up about your struggles with food and feelings in a safe space. Choosing online therapy gives you the flexibility to work on your recovery journey while getting the same level of support as you would with in-person therapy.

Online therapy in Utah means I work with clients all over the state including St. George, Cedar City, Provo, Heber City, Logan, Salt Lake City, and more. 

About the Author 

Ashlee Hunt, LCSW, is the founder of Maple Canyon Therapy, a Utah-based practice specializing in assisting women on their path to recovery from eating disorders. Armed with dual bachelor's degrees in Psychology and Family Life and Human Development from Southern Utah University, Ashlee possesses a profound comprehension of human behavior and familial dynamics. Driven by her dedication to empowering women, Ashlee pursued a master's degree in Social Work from Utah State University, fortifying her capacity to provide comprehensive care and guidance. With extensive experience spanning all facets of eating disorder treatment, Ashlee loves helping to support women through the intricate journey of recovery.

3 Restaurants in Salt Lake City to Challenge Binge Eating

An important step in binge eating disorder treatment is challenging yourself to eat at restaurants. You may have forbidden yourself from eating out to keep things under control so you don’t trust yourself when it comes to eating out. Eating at restaurants can be an important step in helping you stop binge eating. Being in a restaurant setting can help you challenge yourself to eat food you normally wouldn't and become more in tune with your taste preferences. One goal of eating out is to desensitize your anxiety around eating certain foods and to help you trust yourself and your body again. I want to offer you a few restaurant recommendations in Salt Lake City to try t

1. The Dodo

A challenging type of food to eat for those with disordered eating is dessert. Their experiences with eating dessert are usually filled with shame. If you struggle with binge eating, you may not have had many experiences where you’ve taken the time to enjoy and savor a dessert slowly. Many people who binge, use this type of food to try and cover immense pain. The Dodo Restaurant in Sugarhouse Park in Salt Lake City is the place for you to challenge yourself to eat dessert mindfully. The Banana Cream Cheese Pie I have tried to replicate at home because I like it so much but it doesn’t really matter what you try. Whether it’s something you don’t let yourself eat or something you aren’t sure you like, there’s an option for you. 

2. Spitz

Spitz is located in downtown Salt Lake City off of Broadway and close to Gallivan Plaza Station. Spitz offers a variety of Mediterranean food. Mediterranean food isn’t always a common cuisine people can encounter here in Utah. There’s something about trying a different type of food that can help you be more in touch with your tastes and take in the experience in a new way. Binge eating usually occurs quickly which doesn’t offer you the opportunity to slow down and really experience food. However, when you try a different food you’ve never had before, you can learn to really take it all in. 

3. Jinya Ramen Bar 

When you struggle with your relationship with food, you may have limited yourself to the types of food you can eat in order to stay in control. You may only allow yourself these foods in a binge. If you didn’t know already, that may be why you tend to binge on those foods because you don’t allow yourself to have them any other time. Jinya Ramen Bar is located near Desseret Industries near Sugar House Park. It offers authentic ramen and other dishes. If this is a type of food you haven’t tried before or one you try to avoid, I challenge you to give Jinya a shot. 

Binge Eating Disorder Treatment in Salt Lake City, Utah can help you stop binge eating

Getting treatment for binge eating disorder can make a huge difference in overcoming it. With the right help, you can learn how to manage those urges to binge and use coping skills you feel better about. Binge eating disorder treatment isn’t really about food and nutrition—it delves into the emotions hiding beneath the surface. You probably have a lot of hidden feelings that are driving binging habits. Eating Disorder Therapy helps unravel the reasons behind your urges to binge, addressing those underlying emotions you might not even realize are there. You can find relief that you have never had before from binge eating. 

Start working with an eating disorder therapist in Salt Lake City, Utah 

Ready to break free from the grip of an eating disorder? Working with an eating disorder therapist is your first step towards reclaiming control and feeling okay again. This Utah Eating Disorder Clinic has an eating disorder therapist who specializes in binge eating disorder through binge eating disorder treatment. To start counseling follow the steps below: 

1. Schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation 

2. Meet with a binge eating disorder therapist

3. Begin breaking free of binge eating 

Online Eating Disorder Therapy in Utah 

If you're dealing with binge eating, online therapy might be just what you need. It can be hard to find a way to travel to a therapy session with your busy schedule but with online therapy in Utah, you can have a video session with an eating disorder therapist right from home with online therapy. It's super private and you can do it from wherever you're comfortable. Online counseling can feel a little bit more flexible when you don’t have to worry about a commute to a therapy office. As an eating disorder therapist, I can give you tools and support to handle binge eating and start feeling better. 

Online counseling also means I work with women throughout Utah who struggle with binge eating. This means I work with clients in Salt Lake City, Logan, Provo, Heber City, St. George, Cedar City, and more. 

About the Author 

Ashlee Hunt, LCSW, founder of Maple Canyon Therapy in Utah, originally founded in Spanish Fork but now serves all of Utah through online therapy including Salt Lake City. Ashlee is a passionate therapist who loves helping women find peace within themselves and in their bodies. With dual bachelor's degrees in Psychology and Family Life and Human Development from Southern Utah University and a master's in Social Work from Utah State University, Ashlee possesses a deep understanding of human behavior and clinical practice. Specializing in eating disorder treatment, she has worked across all treatment levels, showcasing her versatility in inpatient, outpatient, and intensive care settings. Ashlee is dedicated to helping women find relief from their anxiety and disordered eating.