How common is binge eating disorder?
The National Eating Disorder Association (NEDA) reports that binge eating disorder (BED) is the most common eating disorder in the United States. BED affects 3.5% of women, 2.0% of men, 1.6% of adolescents, and up.3% of adults over the age of 60. Though the disorder is most common in adults, binge eating disorder can develop at any age.
There are a number of research-based binge eating disorder treatments available, and with treatment, people with BED can and do recover. binge eating disorder is a serious, emotional, and physical problem that can have a profound effect on a person’s life.
Binge eating disorder is an eating disorder characterized by regular episodes of binge eating. Binge eating episodes are characterized by both of the following:
• Eating, in a discrete period of time (e.g., within any 2-hour period), an amount of food that is definitely larger than what most people would eat in a similar period of time under similar circumstances
• A sense of lack of control over eating during the episode (e.g., a feeling that one cannot stop eating or control what or how much one is eating)
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
Binge eating disorder is distinguished from bulimia nervosa in that binge eating episodes are not followed by purging, excessive exercise, or fasting. However, like individuals with bulimia nervosa, people with binge eating disorder often are ashamed of their binge eating and feel great distress about their eating behaviors.
Binge eating disorder is a relatively new diagnosis. It was first included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), published by the American Psychiatric Association, in 2013.
The cause of binge eating disorder is not fully understood, but a number of factors may play a role, including:
• Biological factors, such as a family history of obesity or other eating disorders, chemical imbalances in the brain, or impulsivity
• Psychological factors, such as low self-esteem, feelings of inadequacy or depression, or a history of dieting
• Social factors, such as cultural pressure to be thin or eating in response to emotions such as boredom, sadness, or stress
If you or someone you know is struggling with binge eating disorder, know that help is available. Contact a mental health provider or eating disorder specialist to start on the road to recovery..Visit Them
How can family and friends help someone with binge eating disorder?
Binge eating disorder (BED) is a serious, life-threatening eating disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating. Binge eating episodes are associated with a sense of loss of control over eating and eating more rapidly than usual. Binge eating disorder is the most common eating disorder in the United States.
While the exact cause of BED is unknown, there are several factors that may contribute to its development, including genetic, biological, psychological, and social factors. Family and friends can play an important role in the treatment of BED.
If you suspect that someone you know may be suffering from BED, there are some things you can do to help. First, try to talk to the person about your concerns. It’s important to be supportive and non-judgmental. Avoid making comments about the person’s weight or appearance.
If the person is open to talking, offer to help them find resources and information about treatment options. You can also help them make an appointment with a doctor or mental health professional.
If the person is not ready to seek help, you can still offer support. Help them make healthy choices by preparing meals with them or going for a walk together. Encourage them to avoid trigger foods and situations that may lead to a binge.
Most importantly, let the person know that you care about them and are there for them. Binge eating disorder is a serious illness, but with treatment, people can recover and live healthy, fulfilling lives.
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