Men and Binge Eating

Overeating, emotional eating, binge eating. These are all problems that have culturally been associated with women, while logic tells us that this is widespread among both sexes. In fact, the prevalence of binge eating among men and women is just about equal. Yet men seeking treatment is relatively rare due to the stigma of seeing this as a “women’s issue”.

Binge eating is something that is often privately shrouded in feelings of guilt and shame and for that reason, men will be more reticent to reach out for help especially if they’re not sure where to turn.

The truth is that a man who binge eats needs treatment and support just as a woman does. Until more health care providers understand the symptoms of binge eating disorder and recommend appropriate treatment options, men will continue to hide in the shadows – at great cost to themselves and their loved ones. With a growing body of research and expanding awareness, there is no longer any excuse for men who are so clearly in need of help not to seek treatment in order to live longer, healthier lives.