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How does binge eating disorder compare to other eating disorders?

Binge eating disorder (BED) is an important but often under-recognized and under-diagnosed eating disorder. BED is characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating, defined as eating an excessive amount of food in a short period of time (usually less than two hours) and feeling out of control during the eating episode. 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 physically hungry; eating alone because of feeling embarrassed by how much one is eating; and feeling disgusted with oneself, depressed, or very guilty afterwards. Unlike bulimia nervosa, there are no attempts to “compensate” for the binge eating through vomiting, excessive exercise, or use of laxatives. As a result, people with BED often are overweight or obese.

BED is the most common eating disorder in the United States, affecting 3.5% of women, 2.0% of men, and 1.6% of adolescents in any given year. Although its prevalence is similar to that of anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa combined, BED is much less well known. This may be because binge eating episodes do not typically involve alcohol or drugs, and people with BED do not engage in purging behaviors or use other compensatory strategies to “undo” the binge eating.

The exact cause of BED is unknown, but a combination of genetic, biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors likely play a role. BED often begins in adolescence or young adulthood, and it is more common in women than men. BED is also more common in people who have a family history of eating disorders or obesity, and it is more common in Black and Hispanic women than White women.

Most people with BED seek treatment because they are concerned about their weight or their eating behaviors. BED is associated with numerous psychological and physical complications, including depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. BED is also associated with a number of medical problems, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and type 2 diabetes.

The good news is that BED is treatable. A combination of psychotherapy and medication has been shown to be effective in treating BED. If you or someone you know is struggling with BED, there is help available..Visit Them

How is binge eating disorder diagnosed?

Binge eating disorder is a serious, life-threatening eating disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of eating large amounts of food in a short period of time followed by feelings of shame, guilt, and powerlessness. Binge eating disorder is the most common eating disorder in the United States. It affects more than 3 million adults, and 1.6% of all American adults will suffer from binge eating disorder at some point in their lives.

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the diagnosis of binge eating disorder will vary depending on the individual and the professional conducting the evaluation. However, there are some general guidelines that are typically followed when diagnosing this disorder.

The first step in diagnosing binge eating disorder is to rule out other potential causes of the individual’s binge eating episodes. This can be done through a thorough physical examination and psychological evaluation. Once other potential causes have been ruled out, a diagnosis of binge eating disorder can be made if the individual meets the following criteria:

1. recurrent episodes of binge eating. An episode of binge eating is characterized by 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.

2. a feeling of lack of control over eating during the episodes (e.g., a feeling that one cannot stop eating or control what or how much one is eating).

3. episodes of binge eating occur, on average, at least once a week for 3 months.

4. weight gain occurs during the period of binge eating.

5. self-evaluation is unduly influenced by body shape and weight.

In addition to meeting the above criteria, a diagnosis of binge eating disorder can also be made if the individual has experienced any of the following:

1. marked distress regarding binge eating is present.

2. the binge eating occurs in the absence of compensatory behaviors (e.g., purging) that might mitigate the effects of the binge eating.

If you think you may have binge eating disorder, it is important to seek professional help. This disorder can be very destructive and has been linked to a number of serious health problems, such as obesity, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. Fortunately, there are effective treatments available for those who suffer from this disorder. With proper diagnosis and treatment, many people with binge eating disorder are able to lead happy and healthy lives.

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