Experiencing cravings or the desire to binge while trying to recover from a binge/restrict cycle is a common and understandable challenge. Recovery from binge eating disorder (BED) or any disordered eating pattern can be complex and involve various factors that contribute to the persistence of these urges. Here are some possible reasons why you may still want to binge during the recovery process:
Psychological factors: Binge eating often serves as a coping mechanism for dealing with difficult emotions, stress, or underlying psychological issues. Even when you are trying to break the cycle, these emotional triggers may still be present, leading to the desire to turn to food for comfort or distraction.
Physiological factors: Repeated binge eating can create neurochemical changes in the brain that reinforce the behavior. These changes may lead to increased cravings for certain foods or a heightened appetite, making it challenging to resist the urge to binge.
Learned behavior: Binge eating may have become a learned habit over time, and breaking habits can take significant effort and time.
Restriction and deprivation: If you've been restricting your food intake or following strict diets in an attempt to compensate for binges, it can trigger a sense of deprivation, leading to stronger cravings for certain foods and increased risk of binging.
Guilt and shame: Feeling guilty or ashamed after a binge can perpetuate the cycle. These negative emotions may lead to emotional eating, including more binge episodes.
Lack of coping strategies: If binge eating has been your primary coping mechanism, you may need to develop alternative and healthier ways to manage stress, emotions, and difficult situations.
Body image issues: Negative body image can contribute to feelings of worthlessness or the desire to escape through binge eating.
Remember that recovery is a journey, and it's normal to face challenges along the way. Be patient and compassionate with yourself during this process. Consider seeking professional help from therapists or counselors specializing in eating disorders. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based treatments can be effective in addressing binge eating and providing you with coping strategies to manage cravings and emotional triggers.
Additionally, working with a registered dietitian who specializes in eating disorders can help you establish a balanced and nourishing approach to food and eating, which may reduce the urge to binge. Engaging in regular physical activity and surrounding yourself with a supportive network can also be beneficial for your recovery. Remember that recovery takes time and effort, but it is possible to develop a healthier relationship with food and yourself.