Bulimia

Binge eating disorder is a type of eating disorder characterized by periods of uncontrolled overeating combined with attempts to compensate for the consumed food through purging, fasting, or excessive physical activity. Externally, the condition may remain unnoticed for a long time; however, on a physiological and biochemical level, it leads to serious disruptions in the regulation of metabolism, the nervous system, and hormonal balance.

From the perspective of functional nutrition, binge eating disorder is viewed not only as a psychological issue but also as a condition supported by nutrient deficiencies, neurotransmitter dysfunction, electrolyte imbalance, and chronic stress.

Key Mechanisms of Development

A key feature of binge eating disorder is the loss of control over appetite. This condition develops against a backdrop of a combination of emotional triggers and biochemical disruptions, which intensify as the disorder progresses:

• disruption of satiety and hunger signals;
• sharp fluctuations in glucose and insulin levels;
• imbalance of serotonin and dopamine;
• chronic activation of the stress axis;
• formation of compensatory eating strategies.

Biochemical and Nutrient Deficiencies

Repeated episodes of purging and dietary restrictions lead to significant deficiencies that directly affect psycho-emotional state and impulse control:

• potassium and sodium are critical for heart and nervous system function;
• magnesium is involved in stress regulation and muscle contractions;
• zinc affects appetite and emotional resilience;
• B vitamins are necessary for neurotransmitter synthesis;
• protein and amino acids are the basis for hormones and enzymes.

Physiological Consequences

Even with a normal body weight, binge eating disorder gradually undermines the physiological mechanisms of adaptation and recovery in the body.

Consequences of binge eating disorder:

• electrolyte imbalance and heart rhythm disturbances;
• damage to the esophageal and gastric mucosa;
• fluctuations in blood pressure;
• slowed recovery after exertion;
• decreased immune protection.

Psycho-emotional Aspects

Against the backdrop of deficiencies and hormonal fluctuations, anxiety, guilt, and compulsive behavior intensify. Attempts at strict dietary control lead to even more pronounced relapses, creating a vicious cycle of overeating and purging.

Approaches to Recovery

Working with binge eating disorder requires a systematic approach aimed at stabilizing physiology and gradually restoring normal appetite regulation:

• normalization of eating patterns without strict restrictions;
• restoration of electrolyte and nutrient balance;
• support for the nervous system and stress adaptation;
• work on insulin and glucose regulation;
• psychotherapeutic support without pressure and control.

Conclusion

Binge eating disorder is not a weakness of character or a lack of willpower, but a complex systemic disorder in which psycho-emotional manifestations are closely linked to biochemistry and nutrient status. Without restoring physiological balance, sustainable changes in eating behavior are impossible.