Regularly eating excessively large amounts of food is considered binge-eating disorder.  This individual consumes food even when they are not hungry and continues to eat even after they are uncomfortably full.  This disorder differs from Bulimia Nervosa in that there are no behaviors to prevent weight gain, such as self-induced vomiting. Feelings of shame and disgust accompany this disorder.  These people may be normal in weight or overweight or obese. 

Signs and symptoms of binge-eating disorder:

• Eating to the point of discomfort or pain
• Eating much more food during a binge episode than during a normal meal or snack
• Eating faster during binge episodes
• Feeling that your eating behavior is out of control
• Frequently eating alone
• Feeling depressed, disgusted or upset over the amount eaten
• Potential consequences of binge-eating:
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Heart disease
• Diabetes mellitus
• Gallbladder disease

Treatment most often involves a combination of psychotherapy, medications, and weight-loss programs done under medical supervision to ensure adequate that nutritional requirements are met.