With an eating disorder, we tend to overreact to even minor dietary blunders and use them as evidence about our lack of self-control. Because binge-eating behaviors are indefensible and antithetical to our core values, we internalize a sense of being unable to control eating or weight. It is self-fulfilling to binge and then, in an effort to regain control, return to restriction. But restricted eating is difficult to maintain in the face of life's challenges and negative moods. Binge eating, on the other hand, may temporarily improve a negative mood or serve as a distraction from difficult circumstances.

What is the solution to this perfect storm? Normal regular eating, 3 meals and up to 3 snacks a day regardless of mood or how you feel about your body. This simple solution reliably and rapidly reduces binge eating and does not cause weight gain. The Marcia Herrin Food Plan available on our website lays it out. Give it a try and let us know how it works for you. Christopher Fairburn'sOvercoming Binge Eating is a great companion to our food plan.

Marcia

Nutritionist Marcia Herrin and Nancy Matsumoto, co-authors of The Parent's Guide to Eating Disorders, Gūrze Books. Marcia is also author of Nutrition Counseling in the Treatment of Eating Disorders.

Copyrighted by Marcia Herrin and Nancy Matsumoto.