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Eating Disorder Facts
Understanding

Binge Eating Disorder

Binge eating disorder (BED) is the most common eating disorder in the United States. It is characterized by recurring episodes of eating significantly more food in a short period than most people would under similar circumstances, accompanied by a sense of loss of control.

Also known as: BED

Affects approximately 2.8% of American adults — about 1 in 35 people

Unlike bulimia, binge eating disorder does not involve regular purging, fasting, or excessive exercise after binge episodes. This can lead to significant weight gain over time, though BED occurs at every body size.

People with BED often eat when not physically hungry, eat alone due to embarrassment, eat until uncomfortably full, and feel disgusted, depressed, or very guilty after overeating. The emotional distress associated with binge eating is significant.

BED was formally recognized as a distinct eating disorder in the DSM-5 in 2013. Despite being the most prevalent eating disorder, it remains under-diagnosed and under-treated, partly due to weight stigma in healthcare.

Recognize

Signs & Symptoms

Eating unusually large amounts of food in a specific time period (e.g., 2 hours)
Eating when not physically hungry
Eating much more rapidly than normal
Eating until uncomfortably or painfully full
Eating alone or in secret due to embarrassment about the quantity consumed
Feelings of distress, shame, guilt, or self-disgust after binge episodes
Hoarding or hiding food
Frequently dieting without weight loss, or cycling between diets
Withdrawal from usual social activities
Evidence of large amounts of food disappearing or many empty food containers
Understand

Causes & Risk Factors

No single cause has been identified. Eating disorders arise from a complex interplay of genetic, biological, behavioral, psychological, and social factors.

Genetic factors — BED runs in families and involves inherited biological vulnerability
Brain chemistry — differences in dopamine and serotonin signaling
History of chronic dieting or food restriction
Psychological factors — depression, anxiety, low self-worth, loneliness
Emotional regulation difficulties — using food to manage feelings
History of weight stigma, bullying, or teasing about body size
Adverse childhood experiences or trauma
Food insecurity or growing up in a household with chaotic eating patterns
Health Impact

Health Consequences

Eating disorders have serious medical consequences and can be life-threatening if untreated.

  • Type 2 diabetes
  • High blood pressure and cardiovascular disease
  • High cholesterol levels
  • Gallbladder disease
  • Joint and muscle pain
  • Sleep apnea and other breathing problems
  • Gastrointestinal issues — acid reflux, stomach pain, bloating
  • Depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions
  • Reduced quality of life and social functioning
  • Increased risk of suicidal ideation
Healing

Treatment Approaches

01 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) — the most studied and effective treatment for BED, targeting binge triggers, distorted thinking, and emotional regulation
02 Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) — addresses interpersonal problems that contribute to binge eating
03 Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) — focuses on building skills to tolerate distress and manage emotions without turning to food
04 Medication — lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) is FDA-approved for moderate-to-severe BED; SSRIs may also help
05 Nutritional counseling — developing a healthy, non-restrictive relationship with food
06 Behavioral weight loss programs — may be appropriate after binge eating is under control, but restrictive dieting can worsen BED
07 Weight-inclusive approaches — focus on health behaviors rather than weight loss as a primary goal

There is hope

Recovery is possible with the right help.

Talk to a professional who specializes in eating disorder treatment.

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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions