Hedonic Hunger: Bulimia, Binge Eating, Compulsive Eating and Obesity
“Hedonic Eating” literally translates to “pleasure eating.” It refers to eating in the absence of biological need or hunger. From my standpoint it describes a pattern of disordered eating that contributes to the current rise with eating disorders and obesity. With few exceptions it involves cravings for highly palatable foods – usually sugar laden, unhealthy fats, refined flour aka most highly processed foods. You know, the usual fare at most fast food chains and shelves of our supermarkets.
Dental Problems with Anorexia, Bulimia, and Binge Eating Disorders
Although eating disorders are often accompanied by a variety of physical and emotional complications, perhaps the most painful are those leading to severe dental problems. To be sure, there is some overlap with respect to the specific impact each type of eating disorder has on our teeth and mouth.
Anorexia, Bulimia, and The Effects on Your Teeth
Professor Pierre Colon, a dental surgeon teaching restorative dentistry and endodontics, describes the havoc eating disorders wreak in your mouth: “In the first few years of the illness, teeth will become worn and cracked. Most of this damage is due to vomiting, and anorexia, where food is restricted, can also have harmful effects on the teeth. The lifestyle habits peculiar to these patients are always taken into account.”
What Is Bulimia?
Bulimia nervosa is a psychological illness characterized by the sufferer binging and then purging themselves of food. It is often related to both anorexia nervosa and binge-eating disorder.
