Binge Eating Disorder

Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is the most common eating disorder, characterized by recurrent episodes of eating large quantities of food in a short period, accompanied by feelings of loss of control, shame, and distress. Unlike bulimia, binge eating episodes are not followed by purging behaviors. BED often leads to overweight or obesity and is associated with depression, anxiety, and other health complications.

⚠️Symptoms

• Recurrent episodes of eating large amounts in a short period
• Eating much more rapidly than normal
• Feeling uncomfortably full
• Eating alone due to embarrassment
• Feeling disgusted, depressed, or guilty afterward
• No regular compensatory behaviors (unlike bulimia)

🔍Causes

• Genetics
• Emotional distress and poor emotion regulation
• History of dieting
• Body image dissatisfaction

💊Treatment Options

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
• Interpersonal therapy
• Medication (lisdexamfetamine, SSRIs)
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy