Most people occasionally have more food than usual. We fill up that extra plate when having our favorite pizza, enjoy an extra piece of cake at a birthday party, or eat until we are stuffed on a weekend.
However, for people with binge eating disorder (BED), overeating becomes more than just food. It crosses the line from a usual, one-time indulgence to a mental health condition that significantly affects people’s physical and psychological health.
Binge eating disorder is a seemingly simple and uncomplicated name for a highly complex condition. The meaning is simple – eating too fast, too much, and too often – until you’re full. However, the simplicity of the name of this disorder does not encompass the complexity and severity of its symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.
When people think of the types of eating disorders, they usually think of anorexia or bulimia as the major ones. However, what most people don’t know is that BE disorder is more common than both these conditions combined and can significantly reduce the quality of life. More than eating, binge eating disorder implies an obsessive loss of control that causes shame and guilt among people affected by it.
Binge eating disorder was officially recognized by the Diagnostic and Statistics Manual (DSM-V) in 2013. However, a lack of awareness about the condition and several misconceptions mean that most people affected by the condition do not get the right help and treatment for the condition.
To help spread the right information and dispel the myths about the condition, let’s dive deeper into what binge eating disorder is, its signs and symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment options.
But before we get started, here’s something important.
Mental and neurological health are diverse and complex. They exist on a spectrum, and every individual has their own experiences. Therefore, don’t start diagnosing yourself with the knowledge you get by reading a few articles on the Internet (though we are incredibly grateful to you for stopping by to enhance your understanding of an important topic). If you find this article helpful or resonate with the symptoms explained in it, consider this as the beginning of your journey of getting the right help.
That’s it. Let’s dive in!
What Is Binge Eating Disorder?
Binge eating disorder is the most widespread type of eating disorder in America. While the exact number of people affected by the condition varies, as per the official statistics by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), around 3% of the American population is affected by BED at some point in their lives.
The DSM-V describes binge eating disorder in two parts:
- Eating more than the average amount of food in two hours or less.
- Feeling out of control while indulging in eating.
Unlike bulimia or anorexia, people having signs of binge eating disorder do not indulge in purging or vomiting after a binging episode. People with BED do not compensate for their over-eating through these symptoms. This condition affects around 3.5% of women and 2% of men during their lifetime. While people of any age can be affected by the condition, it usually occurs in younger people (around 25 years of age).
What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Binge Eating Disorder?
For many people, binge eating disorder starts as a way of dealing with trauma and abuse. For others, it may stem from food insecurity—when food is abundant right after payday but not enough as the days go on, leading to a cycle of eating as much as possible while food is available.
Regardless of how the pattern starts, it can quickly spiral out of control. Binge eating takes a toll on both the mind and body.
After an episode, it’s common to experience a troubling combination of physical discomfort and intense feelings of shame or self-criticism—none of which are your fault. Left untreated, binge eating disorder can significantly disrupt your life, damage your health, and, in severe cases, lead to life-threatening consequences.
The signs and symptoms of binge eating disorder can be divided into physical, behavioral, and emotional ones. Let’s dive deeper into these symptoms.
Physical Symptoms Of Binge Eating Disorder
- Stomach pain or discomfort
- Bloating
- Weight gain or loss
- Fatigue and lethargy
- Acid reflux or other gastrointestinal issues
- Headaches
- Disrupted sleep patterns
Behavioral Symptoms Of Binge Eating Disorder
- Eating in secret
- Rapid eating
- Hoarding food
- Eating when not hungry
- Avoiding meals or social situations involving food
- Frequent dieting without weight loss
- Irregular eating patterns, such as skipping meals and then bingeing
Emotional Symptoms Of Binge Eating Disorder
- Feelings of shame and guilt
- Anxiety and depression
- Loss of control during eating episodes
- Preoccupation with body image and weight
- Emotional distress or irritability after eating
- Low self-esteem
- Feelings of worthlessness or self-loathing
How Is Binge Eating Disorder Diagnosed?
Diagnosing binge eating disorder involves a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional, often guided by the criteria outlined in the DSM-5.
DSM-5 Criteria For Binge Eating Disorder
According to the DSM-5, a diagnosis of binge eating disorder is made when the following criteria are met:
1. Recurrent Episodes of Binge Eating: These episodes are defined by both of the following:
- Eating, in a discrete period (within any two-hour period), an amount of food that is definitely larger than what most people would eat in a similar period under similar circumstances.
- A sense of lack of control over eating during the episode (e.g., feeling that one cannot stop eating or control what or how much one is eating).
2. Episodes 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.
- Feeling disgusted with oneself, depressed, or very guilty afterward.
3. Marked Distress Regarding Binge Eating: The individual experiences significant distress about their binge eating behavior.
4. Frequency of Episodes: Binge eating occurs, on average, at least once a week for three months.
5. Absence of Compensatory Behaviors: The binge eating episodes are not associated with the recurrent use of inappropriate compensatory behaviors (e.g., purging, fasting, excessive exercise) that are characteristic of bulimia nervosa and do not occur exclusively during the course of bulimia nervosa or anorexia nervosa.
How Doctors Diagnose Binge Eating Disorder
When diagnosing binge eating disorder, healthcare professionals typically conduct a comprehensive assessment that includes:
1. Clinical Interview: The doctor will ask about the individual’s eating habits, emotional well-being, and any history of weight fluctuations or dieting. This interview often includes questions about the frequency and nature of binge eating episodes, the individual’s feelings of control during these episodes, and the emotional aftermath.
2. Physical Examination: A physical exam may be performed to assess any health complications related to binge eating disorder, such as weight gain, high blood pressure, or gastrointestinal issues.
3. Psychological Evaluation: A mental health professional may conduct a psychological evaluation to assess for co-occurring mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or other eating disorders. This evaluation helps in understanding the broader context of the individual’s mental health and the impact of binge eating disorder on their life.
4. Review of Medical and Family History: Understanding the individual’s medical history and any family history of eating disorders or other mental health conditions can provide important insights into potential risk factors.
5. Use of Screening Tools: In some cases, standardized questionnaires or screening tools may be used to help identify symptoms of binge eating disorder and assess the severity of the condition.
What Are The Causes Of Binge Eating Disorder?
Binge eating disorder is a complex condition with no single cause. Instead, it arises from a combination of genetic, biological, psychological, and environmental factors.
1. Genetic Factors
As per research published in Biological Psychiatry, there may be genetic reasons behind binge eating disorder.
Individuals with a family history of eating disorders, obesity, or other mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety, may be at a higher risk of developing binge eating disorder themselves. Certain genes that influence hunger, satiety, and mood regulation might contribute to the development of the condition.
2. Biological Factors
Biological factors, including hormonal imbalances and brain chemistry, play a significant role in binge eating disorders.
Dysregulation of the hormones that control appetite and hunger can lead to abnormal eating patterns. Additionally, neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which are involved in mood regulation, may be imbalanced in individuals with binge eating disorder, contributing to emotional eating and cravings.
3. Psychological Factors
Psychological issues are often at the core of binge eating disorder. Many individuals with the condition struggle with low self-esteem, body dissatisfaction, or perfectionism.
These feelings can trigger binge eating episodes as a way to cope with negative emotions. Trauma, such as abuse or neglect, can also lead to the development of binge eating disorder, as individuals may turn to food for comfort and control.
4. Emotional Factors
Emotional distress is a common trigger for binge eating episodes. Stress, anxiety, depression, and loneliness can all contribute to binge eating as a way to self-soothe or escape from uncomfortable feelings. The cycle of using food to cope with emotions often leads to feelings of guilt and shame, which can perpetuate the disorder.
5. Environmental Factors
The environment in which a person lives can significantly influence their eating behaviors.
Factors such as cultural attitudes toward food and body image, exposure to dieting and weight-loss culture, and the availability of highly palatable, calorie-dense foods can all contribute to binge eating disorder. Additionally, growing up in a household where food is used as a reward or where there is inconsistent access to food can lead to disordered eating patterns.
What Are The Common Binge Eating Disorder Treatment Options?
Recovering from binge eating disorder is possible with the right combination of treatments tailored to the individual’s needs. Binge eating disorder treatment often involves a multi-faceted approach that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of the condition. Here are some of the most common treatment options:
1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective forms of binge eating disorder therapy.
CBT helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to binge eating. This therapy focuses on understanding the triggers that lead to binge eating episodes and developing healthier coping strategies. CBT also addresses the underlying emotional issues, such as low self-esteem and body image concerns, that often accompany binge eating disorder.
2. Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) is another evidence-based approach to binge eating disorder treatment.
This therapy focuses on improving interpersonal relationships and communication skills, which can help reduce the emotional distress that triggers binge eating. IPT helps individuals explore and resolve conflicts in their relationships, build better social support networks, and develop healthier ways of dealing with stress.
3. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is particularly useful for individuals who experience intense emotions that lead to binge eating.
DBT combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness practices to help individuals regulate their emotions, tolerate distress, and improve their relationships. This binge eating therapy is effective in reducing the frequency of binge eating episodes and improving overall emotional well-being.
4. Nutritional Counseling
Nutritional counseling is a key component of binge eating recovery.
A registered dietitian or nutritionist can help individuals develop a balanced and healthy eating plan that addresses nutritional deficiencies and promotes regular eating patterns. Nutritional counseling also helps individuals build a healthier relationship with food, moving away from restrictive dieting and toward a more intuitive approach to eating.
Apart from this, medications, support groups, or peer group therapy may be prescribed as part of binge eating treatment.
Conclusion:
Recovering from a binge eating disorder, like any other mental health condition, is often a lifelong journey. It’s important to remember that overcoming binge eating disorder takes time, patience, and a great deal of self-compassion. While treatment may not always be easily accessible for everyone, there are still ways to find support and begin the path to recovery.
You don’t have to navigate this journey alone, and there are resources available to help:
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline: A valuable resource, available at (800) 931-2237.
- Alsana: Offers online eating disorder support groups.
- Recovery Record: An app designed to support eating disorder treatment.
- MEDA: Provides online support groups tailored to your needs.
- Inclusive Therapists: A platform for finding therapists who share your identities and understand your unique challenges.
- Center of Excellence for Eating Disorders: Offers treatment options and opportunities to participate in research studies.
Getting timely treatment is the right way to timely recovery. With the advent of online therapy platforms, access to professional help is now easier than ever. To learn more about the most accessible and affordable online therapy platforms, click here.
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