It is thought that up to 30 million Americans are affected by an eating disorder. Eating disorders are classified as an unhealthy preoccupation with food, weight, body shape and size, control over what one is eating, or compulsive exercise to control weight. Eating disorders rank the highest in mortality rate of any psychological disorder, including 20% of eating disorder sufferers that commit suicide. CBD for binge eating disorders is showing promise as a natural, chemical-free way to alleviate some of the symptoms of the disorder as part of an overall treatment plan.

Binge Eating Disorder is currently classified as EDNOS, (Eating Disorder Not Otherwise Specified) and has caused debate in the eating disorder treatment community, not having its own classification as a stand-alone, diagnosable eating disorder.

BED, along with anorexia, bulimia, and other eating disorder counterparts, are emotional and mental illnesses. Although not uncommon, the repercussions of eating disorders can be deadly, as well as detrimental to someone’s quality of life. Full spectrum and CBD isolate alike are known to have some drug interactions, similar to grapefruit juice and St. John’s Wort. Speak with a medical professional about incorporating Oil Well’s full-spectrum CBD supplements into your wellness plan.

How CBD for bulimia may play a role in alleviating symptom and aid in recovery

Serotonin, a naturally occurring compound in the body that plays a key role in the brain’s reward system,  appetite, body perception, and memory development, as well as the overall “feel good” feelings we experience. CBD is thought to activate the serotonin receptors, which may alleviate the depression and anxiety that are linked with eating disorders.

How do you know if someone you love has binge eating disorder?

Contrary to popular belief, weight does not necessarily correlate with an eating disorder. People who suffer from binge eating disorder, in particular, may be at what is considered a “normal” weight. Due to the guilt and shame, many who suffer from binge eating disorder may feel, sufferers do their best to hide their disorder, only engaging in “binge cycles” when alone. However, other tell-tale signs may exist with binge eating disorder

People with Binge Eating Disorder (BED) may exhibit the following sings:

Hidden food stashes

Food hoarding

Frequent dieting with no signs of weight loss

Hidden stashes of empty food containers

Insistence on eating alone

Those suffering from BED May experience the below symptoms:

Feeling of loss of control when eating

Grief

Shame

Anxiety

Feelings of disgust

Distended stomach

Bloating

Gastrointestinal issues

Unlike bulimia, those suffering from binge eating disorder do not compulsively purge their food, although instances of purging do happen. Often, BED sufferers will follow a single cycle with severely restricted intake, triggering the cycle to start all over and another binge cycle to follow. Eating disorders have a very high rate of suicide, as well as a host physical and mental complications that can be deadly. it is important to seek help immediately from a physician or mental health professional if you feel you are suffering from BED. Speak with a medical professional to see if you could benefit from CBD for BED as part of your recovery plan.

While there is no exact cause for BED, it is believed that feelings associated with guilt and shame may affect a person’s relationship with food.

Someone who suffers from BED may have difficulties with the following:

Managing emotions

Expressing anger

Processing long-standing grief

Self-worth

Impulse control