How To Stop Binge Eating When High

What is Binge Eating?

Binge eating is characterized by the consumption of an unusually large amount of food in a short period, often accompanied by a sense of loss of control over eating [1]. This behavior is a central symptom of Binge Eating Disorder (BED), a relatively new type of eating disorder first described in 1992 and introduced into the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual 5 (DSM-5) in 2013 [2].

Unlike bulimia nervosa, binge eating is not followed by compensatory behaviors to avoid weight gain, such as purging or excessive exercise [3, 4]. As a result, individuals who engage in binge eating are often overweight [5].

However, binge eating behaviours or compulsive eating can occur outside of these eating disorders. It only becomes a disorder if it occurs regularly and disrupts daily function or well-being.

Getting High

Getting high refers to the euphoric, 'on top of the world' feeling experienced after taking cannabis, commonly known as weed. This sensation is primarily due to the psychoactive compound in cannabis, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Taking THC floods the brain with dopamine, which is a reinforcing molecule associated with pleasure, resulting in an emotional high [6].

The effects of getting high extend throughout the central nervous system. It acts of cannabinoid receptors that are found throughout the brain and spinal cord and modulate excitability in the brain. Cannabinoid receptors are involved in modulation of pain, mood, perception and passing of time. This is why you may experience relaxation, altered sensations and a change in how you perceive time passing. As cannabinoids modulate pain perception, cannabis, or getting high, can be a strategy to manage chronic pain.

Despite this, weed is a banned substance and can significantly impact memory formation and cognitive development, especially in young people [6].

Why Do You Binge When You Are High?

Binge eating while high is referred to as having "the munchies." It is very common after getting high, but why does it happen? Bingeing, when high, is driven by the activation of the endocannabinoid system in the brain, which also plays a crucial role in reward processing and food intake and regulates mood and pain [7, 8].

The endocannabinoid system is composed of endocannabinoids and their receptors, including the cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1R). Studies have shown that levels of mRNA expression of CB1R are linked to binge eating in rats. This indicates that activity of this receptor could explain why binge eating tendencies are increased after taking cannabis [7].

The opioid system may also be involved in connecting cannabis and binge eating. The opioid system is primarily targeted by opioids, such as morphine, but is also implicated in cannabis neurobiology [9]. The opioid system is strongly linked to the rewarding aspects of palatable food intake. It increases pleasant anticipation of a reward - for example, to achieve the thrill elicited by binge eating [10].

Moreover, environmental food-associated stimuli can robustly enhance the desire to eat, even in the absence of physiological needs. This is particularly relevant when under the influence of cannabis, as the drug can increase sensitivity to such cues, leading to increased motivated attention towards food and cue-induced craving [11].

Finally, it's worth noting that binge eating while high is not solely driven by physiological mechanisms. Psychological factors also play a significant role. For instance, cannabis use can influence motivational factors that lead to the initiation of eating and the hedonic factors leading you to eat past satiety [8].

How Do You Stop Binge Eating When High?

Binge eating is a serious behavior problem that can be managed with the right strategies. To stop binge eating when high, it is best to first ask whether you have binge eating tendencies when you are not high. Since cannabis induces an altered mental state, it is more difficult to cognitively regulate one's impulses and behaviour in these situations.

Here are some scientifically-backed methods to help curb binge eating.

1. Recognising the problem: recognize that you binge when high is the initial step towards reducing or avoiding binge eating when high. If you also binge when consuming large amounts of food within a short period, it can be helpful to keep a food diary of foods consumed during your binge. The thought of keeping the diary entry may also help you stop when you are binge eating. Retrospectively, seeing how many calories you consume may help you break the cycle [12].
2. Maintaining a balanced diet before getting high can help ease food cravings when high. It can also help with your mental health by providing your body with adequate nutrients and help with weight loss. These factors may make you less likely to seek out getting high and thereby stop binge eating when high [12]. It is also important to maintain sufficient calorie intake, as getting hungry can lead to low blood sugar levels and reduced impulse control around food.
3. Avoid buying junk food. Out of sight, out of mind is the easiest strategy to avoid the munchies. Carrots and hummus may not sound as appealing when high as a bag of chips or burger [12].
4. Stress, negative emotions, and sometimes low self-esteem can increase the risks of emotional eating and binge eating. Exercising, practising relaxation techniques, getting regular sleep, and maintaining a positive outlook can help manage stress [12]. If you are getting high because you are stressed, try to consider a light form of talking therapy or relaxation technique instead.
5. Join a support group such as Overeaters Anonymous. Talking to others who understand what you're going through may be helpful, and you may also be able to implement some of their successful treatment strategies. Chances are these groups will also have experience of binge eating when high and can share what works best for them [12].

Studies also support the use of talking therapies, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy, or medication, including antidepressants, ADHD medication, or peptides for weight loss can address binge eating from a psychological to a physiological level [13, 14, 15]. However, consulting with a healthcare professional before starting any treatment plan is important.