Overeating

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Overeating generally refers to the long-term consumption of excess food in relation to the energy that an organism expends (or expels via excretion), leading to weight gain and often obesity. It may be regarded as an eating disorder.

This term may also be used to refer to specific episodes of over-consumption. For example, many people overeat during festivities or while on holiday.

Overeating can sometimes be a symptom of binge eating disorder or bulimia.

Treatment

Cognitive behavioral therapy, individual therapy, and group therapy are often beneficial in helping people keep track of their eating habits and changing the way they cope with difficult situations.

One organization that helps overeaters is Overeaters Anonymous, which operates a 12-step program.

Overeating has been linked to the use of medications known as dopamine agonists, such as pramipexole [1].

See also

• Addiction
• Binge eating
• Mindless Eating: Why We Eat More Than We Think (book)

References

Dr. Rachel Helpling, My Fat Ass: A Journey to Personal Discovery, Journal of American Dietetics, November 2008.

External links

• Overeaters Anonymous
• Listen to Overeaters Anonymous speakers