Overeating

Overeating refers to consuming more food than the body needs or comfortable, often in response to emotional states, social cues, or environmental triggers. It is common and may occur in celebrations or routine meals without indicating a disorder. When overeating happens only occasionally and is brief, it is not a medical problem. In some cases, however, recurrent episodes with loss of control meet criteria for binge eating disorder, a recognized clinical condition that involves distress and does not include compensatory behaviors.

Causes and risk factors are a combination of biology, psychology, and environment contributing to overeating. Hormones that regulate hunger and fullness, reward pathways in the brain, stress, mood disorders, and sleep quality can influence eating. Environmental cues such as abundant portions, marketing, and social dining can promote overeating. Dieting or restrictive eating can paradoxically increase cravings and lead to overeating when restriction ends.

Health effects: Occasional overeating often causes temporary discomfort; repeated episodes can contribute to weight gain and higher risk of obesity, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Emotionally, it can be linked with guilt or shame, potentially sustaining disordered eating patterns in some individuals.

Management: Emphasis on regular meals, mindful eating, and recognizing hunger and fullness cues. For problematic overeating or suspected binge eating, evidence-based therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy and interpersonal therapy, along with support from nutritionists or physicians, can help. Some cases may benefit from medical evaluation or treatment for obesity or associated conditions; medications are used in specific circumstances under professional supervision.