Want to stop binge eating but you are not, why though?
Binge eating can feel like a battle between what someone wants (to stop) and what their brain and body do in the moment. People often continue binge eating despite wanting to stop because of a mix of biological, psychological, and emotional factors:
1. Biological factors
- Restriction ? Overeating: If someone has been dieting or avoiding certain foods, the body interprets that as scarcity, increasing cravings and making binges more likely.
- Brain chemistry: Dopamine and other reward pathways reinforce the behavior, so eating large amounts can temporarily feel soothing, even if guilt comes later.
2. Emotional regulation
- Food becomes a coping tool for stress, loneliness, boredom, or difficult emotions. It’s not really about hunger, but about seeking relief or comfort.
- Even when someone knows it won’t help long-term, in the moment it feels like the fastest escape.
3. Habit loops
- The cycle of urge ? binge ? guilt ? restriction ? urge again strengthens the pattern. Over time, it can feel automatic.
4. Shame & secrecy
- Shame after a binge can actually fuel the next one — because feeling bad often triggers the same coping mechanism (more food).
? Healing usually involves breaking this cycle with:
- Regular, balanced eating (not restricting)
- Learning alternative coping tools for emotions
- Self-compassion rather than shame
- Sometimes, therapy or support groups for binge eating
It’s not a lack of willpower — it’s a coping mechanism that’s gotten stuck on repeat.