Why can’t I stop binge eating?

If you’ve ever found yourself asking, “Why can’t I just stop binge eating?”, you’re not alone. As Eating Disorder psychologists, we hear this question all the time. The truth? It’s not about willpower, and it’s definitely not your fault. Let’s unpack it.

Many people believe binge eating comes down to being weak or lacking discipline. In reality, binge eating is usually the opposite! It’s your brain and body working overtime to protect you. Restriction is one of the biggest triggers. When you’ve been dieting, cutting carbs, or sticking to strict food rules, your body interprets this as famine. Eventually, your hunger signals get louder and more urgent, leading to a binge. It’s biology, not failure.

Binge eating can also serve as a coping strategy. Food can feel like the quickest way to soothe stress, numb emotions, or fill a sense of emptiness. For some, it becomes the most accessible comfort during tough moments. It’s not about “lack of control”, it’s about survival and self-soothing in the only way your body knows how right now.

Biology and brain chemistry also play a role. Hormones, neurobiology, and even gut signals can drive the cycle of bingeing. Add in the shame and guilt that often follow a binge, and it creates a painful loop: restriction, binge, guilt, repeat. Shame isn’t a motivator; it keeps the cycle going.

The truth is, binge eating is complex. It’s not something fixed by another diet or by “trying harder.” Healing means addressing restriction, building emotional tools, and reducing shame, while learning to trust your body again. Recovery is possible, but it doesn’t come from punishment. It comes from compassion.

If you’re struggling with binge eating, reaching out to a Health At Every Size (HAES)-aligned eating disorder psychologist can be the first step toward breaking free of the cycle. You deserve support, and you don’t need to do this alone.

✨ Remember: your worth has nothing to do with what or how much you eat.