One in three women in the Netherlands experiences binge eating, with more than half keeping their episodes secret from others.
A comprehensive food survey by women's magazine Margriet found that 37 percent of women suffer from binge eating. In 2020, Margriet surveyed 4,000 women aged 25 and older. Respondents reported eating much faster during binges, and over half ensured no one witnessed it. Afterward, three-quarters felt guilty. Notably, those prone to binge eating were often more impulsive, perfectionistic, and less stress-resilient than average.
Weight Concerns
Nearly nine in ten women fear gaining weight, and 70 percent aim to lose 10 kilos or more. Just 23 percent are satisfied with their current weight. However, severely overweight women frequently underreport their weight.
Almost half have attempted at least two diets in the past year, with many incorporating a regular balance day.
Positive Trends: The survey indicates fewer women are using unhealthy weight-loss methods compared to a decade ago. Laxative use dropped from 15 percent to 9 percent, and strict fasting (abstaining from food for over eight hours) fell from one in three to just 8 percent.
