Overall Health Effects of Binge Eating and Fasting

Abstract

This research paper seeks to raise awareness regarding the physical, psychological, social, and life-threatening effects of fasting and binge eating. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics emphasizes eating patterns instead of specific foods as a more effective approach to lessening the risk of eating disorders. Research from Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, the University of Tartu, and Dalhousie University determined that consistent eating patterns can be influenced by the individual's personality traits, self-control, outside influence, environment, and state of mind. Some individuals skip meals and even go without eating for extended periods of time to lose weight, for religious beliefs, or medical necessity. According to Fuhrman, fasting can be quite dangerous; and medical experts agree fasting is not a healthy or effective way to lose weight. Unlike fasting, individuals with binge eating disorder (BED), eat unusually large amounts of food in a short period of time. Results published in Biological Psychiatry, found that 3.5% of women and 2.0% of men had binge eating disorder during their life. All foods can be within healthy eating patterns when they are appropriately portioned, eaten in moderation, and combined with physical activity. Raising awareness about prevention, encouraging early detection and treatment is crucial and possible.