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All About Binge Eating Disorder

Wednesday, May 24  •  

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Binge eating disorder (BED) is a serious mental health condition characterized by recurrent episodes of uncontrollable binge eating, where individuals consume large amounts of food in a short period, even when they are not hungry or full. Unlike bulimia nervosa, individuals with BED do not engage in compensatory behaviors such as purging or excessive exercise to offset the calories consumed. Practicing binge eating behaviors can lead to significant physical and emotional health consequences.

Diagnostic Criteria

According to the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA), the diagnostic criteria for BED include the following:

  • Eating, in a discrete period of time, an amount of food that is larger than most people would eat in a similar period under similar circumstances
  • A sense of lack of control over eating during the episode

The binge eating episodes are associated with three (or more) of the following:

  • Eating much more rapidly than normal
  • Eating until feeling uncomfortably full
  • Eating large amounts of food when not feeling physically hungry
  • Eating alone because of feeling embarrassed by how much one is eating
  • Feeling disgusted with oneself, depressed, or very guilty afterward

Marked distress regarding binge eating is present.

The binge eating occurs, on average, at least once a week for three months.

The binge eating is not associated with the recurrent use of inappropriate compensatory behavior as in bulimia nervosa and does not occur exclusively during anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, or avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder.

Signs and Symptoms

BED is often characterized by eating large amounts of food in a short period of time, even when not hungry or full, and feeling a loss of control during these episodes. Individuals with BED may also exhibit the following signs and symptoms:

  • Eating alone due to embarrassment or guilt
  • Eating until uncomfortably full or experiencing physical pain
  • Hoarding food and eating it in secret
  • Skipping meals or avoiding certain foods to “save” calories for a binge
  • Feeling depressed, anxious, or guilty after binge eating
  • Rapid weight gain or obesity
  • Irritability, mood swings, and difficulties with interpersonal relationships
  • Health consequences

According to NEDA, BED typically manifests in the late teenage years or early twenties, it has been observed in both younger children and older adults.

BED can lead to several serious health consequences, including:

  • Obesity and related health conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease
  • Digestive problems such as bloating, constipation, and abdominal pain
  • Mental health problems such as depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem
  • Substance abuse and addiction
  • Social isolation and difficulties with interpersonal relationships

Seeking Help

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of BED, it is essential to seek help from a qualified healthcare professional or a specialized eating disorder treatment center. BED can be treated effectively with psychotherapy, medication, and nutritional counseling. Early intervention can lead to a better outcome and reduce the risk of severe health consequences associated with the disorder.

Binge eating disorder is a serious mental health condition that requires timely intervention and treatment. It is essential to recognize the signs and symptoms of BED and seek professional help to address this condition. With proper care, individuals with BED can recover and lead fulfilling, healthy lives.

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