Binge Eating Disorder
Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is characterized by recurrent episodes of overeating in a rapid manner, when not hungry and often until extreme fullness. There is a sense of lack of control over eating during an episode, where the individual feels that they cannot stop eating or control what or how much they are eating. Binge eating episodes are marked by significant distress followed by feelings of shame, guilt, and depression. It occurs, on average, at least once a week for three months. Individuals with BED do not typically use inappropriate or unhealthy weight control behaviors such as fasting or purging to counteract the binges.
According to the Binge Eating Disorder Association, “Although those with Binge Eating Disorder are more likely than average to be of higher weight, anyone at any weight may struggle with the disorder. For those at higher weights, the presence of cultural weight stigma and bullying experiences may contribute to a greater degree to the development of Binge Eating Disorder, as well as co-occurring mood disorders and addictions.”
An estimated 3.5% of women, 2% of men, and 30% to 40% of those seeking weight loss treatments can be clinically diagnosed with Binge Eating Disorder. BED is the most common eating disorder among U.S. adults and affects three times the number of those diagnosed with Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa combined.
According to the Binge Eating Disorder Association, “Although those with Binge Eating Disorder are more likely than average to be of higher weight, anyone at any weight may struggle with the disorder. For those at higher weights, the presence of cultural weight stigma and bullying experiences may contribute to a greater degree to the development of Binge Eating Disorder, as well as co-occurring mood disorders and addictions.”
An estimated 3.5% of women, 2% of men, and 30% to 40% of those seeking weight loss treatments can be clinically diagnosed with Binge Eating Disorder. BED is the most common eating disorder among U.S. adults and affects three times the number of those diagnosed with Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa combined.
