Binge Eating Disorder

Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is characterized as recurrent episodes of binge eating. Binge eating refers to consuming an amount of food that is larger than what most people would eat in a similar period under similar circumstances, and includes a sense of lack of control of overeating during the episode. This can be described as a feeling that one cannot stop eating or control (what or how much?) one is eating. 

Behavioral Signs of Binge Eating Disorder

• Eating more rapidly than normal
• Eating until feeling uncomfortably full
• Eating large amounts of food even when not feeling physically hungry
• Eating alone because of feelings of embarrassment stemming from how much one eats
• Feeling disgusted with oneself, depressed or guilty after eating

Medical Complications of Binge Eating Disorder

• Individuals struggling with BED come in all shapes and sizes but those with BED living in a larger body may face weight stigma when trying to receive medical or behavioral care 
• Diabetes, hypertension

Contributing Factors

Binge Eating Disorder can have multiple causes including biological, psychological and sociocultural factors. Biological factors include genetics and family history of an eating disorder which can make individuals more likely to be affected. Environmental factors refer to social environments, social media, and socioeconomic status. Psychological factors can include co-existing illnesses and personality traits such as depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.