Liigsöömishoogude

Liigsöömishoogude, often referred to as binge eating episodes, are periods of consuming a significantly larger amount of food than is typical in a discrete timeframe, accompanied by a sense of loss of control over eating. During these episodes, individuals often eat much faster than usual, eat until they feel uncomfortably full, and consume large amounts of food even when not feeling physically hungry. They may also eat alone due to embarrassment about the amount they are eating, feel disgusted, depressed, or very guilty afterward.

These episodes are a core characteristic of Binge Eating Disorder (BED), a recognized eating disorder. However, liigsöömishoogude can also occur in other eating disorders like bulimia nervosa, though they are typically followed by compensatory behaviors such as vomiting or excessive exercise in bulimia. The frequency and intensity of these episodes are key diagnostic criteria for BED. The underlying causes are thought to be multifaceted, involving a combination of genetic, psychological, and environmental factors. These can include emotional distress, coping mechanisms for stress, and certain neurobiological predispositions. Understanding liigsöömishoogude is crucial for appropriate diagnosis and treatment of related eating disorders.