21 Apr Help! Why Do I Lose Control Around Food? Understand The Cycle Of Binge Eating And Restriction
If you’ve ever found yourself bingeing on food after a period of strict dieting or missing meals, you’re not alone. Many people seeking weight loss unintentionally trigger a cycle of restriction and binge eating. This pattern isn’t simply about willpower — it’s deeply tied to how our brain and body respond to deprivation. Whether it’s due to intentional calorie restriction, irregular eating because of time blindness, or a long-standing relationship with food and body image, binge eating can feel overwhelming and confusing.
What Is The Restriction-Binge Cycle?
The binge-restrict cycle is a well-known pattern among individuals who struggle with disordered eating. It often begins with dietary restriction, where a person limits their food intake to lose weight or “make up” for eating something “bad.” This might involve skipping meals, following rigid rules around food, or avoiding entire food groups. The body interprets this restriction as a threat — activating survival mechanisms that increase hunger hormones like ghrelin and reduce satiety signals.
Eventually, the body fights back. When food becomes available, it’s common to feel out of control, leading to episodes of binge eating. This is not a failure — it’s biology. The binge is the body’s way of protecting you from famine. The guilt that follows often leads back to restriction, and the cycle continues.
How Does Time Blindness Contribute To Binge Eating?
Time blindness, common in individuals with ADHD and other neurodivergent conditions, can play a major role in disordered eating. When you’re unaware of how much time has passed, it’s easy to miss meals or forget to eat altogether. Later, you may feel ravenous and eat large amounts quickly — not out of indulgence, but because your body is desperate for energy.
What Happens To The Body During Chronic Restriction?
From a scientific perspective, the body doesn’t know you’re dieting for weight loss — it thinks you’re in danger. The result is a biological push to overeat as a survival response. Prolonged restriction can lead to a number of physical and psychological changes, including:
- Increased cravings and obsession with food
- Lowered metabolism
- Disrupted sleep patterns
- Hormonal imbalances (e.g. cortisol, insulin resistance)
- Reduced concentration and mood stability
- Gastrointestinal issues like bloating or constipation
Is Binge Eating A Sign Of An Eating Disorder?
Yes, recurrent binge eating episodes — particularly when accompanied by distress or shame — may be a sign of binge eating disorder (BED). This is the most common eating disorder in Australia and often goes undiagnosed due to stigma or misunderstanding.
What Are The Options For Binge Eating Disorder Treatment?
Binge eating disorder treatment is multifaceted and depends on your unique needs. Working with a therapist for eating disorders or a therapist in near me who understands the underlying drivers of bingeing can be a game changer.
Many people benefit from eating therapy with a trained clinician who takes a non-diet approach. This may involve regular meals and aiming to regulate the digestive system, to then move into intuitive eating principles, emotion regulation skills, and building a healthier relationship with food and body.
An eating disorder psychiatrist may also be part of your treatment team. Programs with eating disorder specialists often include behavioural strategies, trauma-informed care, and nutritional support. You can access help through a binge eating helpline or eating disorder helpline, which can guide you to the right services.
How Do I Know If I’m Ready For Support?
If you’re asking these questions, that’s often a sign you’re ready. You don’t need to be “sick enough” or meet strict diagnostic criteria to receive support. In fact, early intervention improves outcomes significantly. There are many levels of support available with specialists who have undergone eating disorder training in Australia.
Can People Fully Recover From An Eating Disorder?
Yes — recovery from an eating disorder is absolutely possible. While the process can be challenging, it’s also incredibly rewarding. With the right support, it’s possible to reconnect with your body’s natural hunger and fullness cues, repair your relationship with food, and learn sustainable ways to care for yourself.
Where Can I Find Help Today?
If you’re looking for immediate support, consider reaching out to a binge eating disorder helpline. They can guide you to binge disorder treatment options, including local or online eating disorder specialists.
For those in Australia, services like:
– Butterfly Foundation
– Eating Disorders Victoria
– InsideOut Institute
…offer excellent resources and helplines for those experiencing binge eating, carers, and families.
Ready To Take The Next Step?
You don’t have to navigate this alone. If you’re seeking binge eating disorder therapy, eating therapy, or a supportive space to explore your relationship with food, reach out to one of our eating disorder specialists today. Healing begins with understanding — and you’re already on your way.