Binge-eating: 11 dangerous myths
And that's just one many myths about binge eating, according to recovered binge eater Sunny Sea Gold, the author of "Food: The Good Girl's Drug." Keep clicking as Gold dispels 10 more dangerous myths about a condition that affects surprising numbers of women - and men too.
Myth: Binge eating isn't a real disorder
The DSM currently lists binge eating as an eating disorder "not otherwise specified." But psychologists are considering giving binge eating disorder (BED) its own entry when the new DSM comes out in 2013.
Myth: Binge eaters have no willpower
Myth: Binge eaters should just go on a diet
What does help people overcome binge eating? Psychotherapy and support groups such as those offered by Overeaters Anonymous.
Myth: Binge eaters are fat
Myth: Binge eating is a female thing
Myth: Binge eaters just don't know when to stop
Myth: Kids don't binge-eat
Myth: Recovery means avoiding "trigger foods" forever
Myth: Surgery is the key to recovery
Following weight-loss surgery, some former binge-eaters find they are unable to eat as much food as they once did - and so become heavy drinkers or compulsive shoppers as a result.
Myth: Doctors are the go-to experts
When it comes to getting good advice and effective help for binge eating, a psychotherapist or dietitian who specializes in eating disorders may be your best bet.