There’s a difference in feasting the morning after in an effort to fill the crevice left from hazy memories and questionable actions, and having no control of your eating habits.
One in ten adults binge eat and McKinsey predicts that if we continue at the rate we’re going half of the world’s population will be obese by 2030.
But while you’re digesting those concerning facts, take solace in the knowledge that science has put paid to the idea that a lack of willpower is entirely to blame for binging.
According to researchers at University College London, a genetic mutation could be responsible. A variation in the FTO locus – dubbed the ‘obesity gene’, which encodes fat mass and obesity-associated protein – could increase your chances of becoming a binger by 20%.
The study found a correlation between this specific gene and a higher BMI and obesity risk. In identifying it, the researchers hope to develop targeted treatment for binge eating and lower the obesity numbers.
Fortunately for men, women were found to be most vulnerable to the gene's effects, and 30% more likely to binge eat if they had the variation.
Chew on that.
