Overeating | April Pater, RCT

Overeating

Overeating can present in many ways, from a minor issue to a major physical and mental health problem. These are some of the possible presentations:

eating past the point of feeling 'full'
hiding what or how much you are eating from those around you
preoccupied with thinking about food
being overweight or obese (and having no underlying medical explanation why)
bingeing (eating a significant amount of food in a short amount of time)
feeling guilt or shame about your eating

Treatment

For some people, working to increase motivation and make simple behavioural changes is enough to help them stay on track and meet their goals. For others, eating has become their way of coping with difficult emotions. In these cases, a combination of behavioural changes and working to build healthier coping skills is needed.

SUGAR ADDICTION

While not currently recognized as a diagnosable mental health disorder, sugar addiction is a well-researched issue that a growing percentage of the population is experiencing. Over the past few decades, sugar has been added more and more to the processed foods we buy and eat. Being an addictive substance, this added sugar makes us want to consume more than our bodies need to of many foods. What may begin as enjoying a "treat" or dessert can morph into emotional eating that has serious and lasting consequences such as obesity, diabetes, social isolation, poor self-esteem, relationship issues, and much more.

The reason people continue to consume sugar, despite these negative consequences, is because of its effect on the brain. The body's method of processing sugar allows the brain access to a surge of serotonin. Serotonin is a "feel good" neurotransmitter that leaves people feeling calm, content, and at peace. Understandably, this is a feeling the body and brain want to experience again, and so the consumption of sugar continues.