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Binge Eating Disorder


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Defining characteristics of Binge Eating Disorder:

Binge eating disorder is a relatively recently recognized disorder (it is sometimes referred to as compulsive overeating).  Some researchers believe it is the most common of the eating disorders affecting millions of Americans. Similar to bulimia nervosa, those with binge eating disorder frequently consume large amounts of food while feeling a lack of control over their eating. However, this disorder is different from bulimia nervosa because people with binge eating disorder usually do not purge (i.e. vomiting, laxatives, excessive exercise, etc) their bodies of the excess food they consume during a binge episode. 

Diagnostic Criteria: DSM-IV

A. Recurrent episodes of binge eating. An episode is characterized by:

1. Eating a larger amount of food than normal during a short period of time (within any two hour period)


B. Binge eating episodes are associated with three or more of the following:

1. Eating until feeling uncomfortably full 

2. Eating large amounts of food when not physically hungry

3. Eating much more rapidly than normal


5. Feeling disgusted, depressed, or guilty after overeating

C. Marked distress regarding binge eating is present

D. Binge eating occurs, on average, at least 2 days a week for six months

E. The binge eating is not associated with the regular use of inappropriate compensatory behavior (i.e. purging, excessive exercise, etc.) and does not occur exclusively during the course of bulimia nervosa or anorexia nervosa.

*From the DSM-IV, Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fourth edition, Washington D.C.: American Psychiatric Association, 1994.


Some Warning Signs:

Rapid weight gain or obesity
Constant weight fluctuations
Frequently eats an abnormal amount of food in a short period of time (usually less than two hours)
Does not use methods to purge food
Eats rapidly (i.e. frequently chewing without swallowing)
Feeling a lack of control over one's eating (i.e. unable to stop)
Eating alone, "secretive eating habits", hiding food, etc.
Eating late at night
Eating when not hungry
Disgust and shame with self after overeating.
Hoarding food (especially high calorie/junk food)
Coping with emotional and psychological states such as stress, unhappiness or disappointment by eating.
Eating large amounts of food without being hungry
Consuming food to the point of being uncomfortable or even in pain
Attribute ones successes and failures to weight
Avoiding social situations especially those involving food.
Depressed mood
Anxious mood

Some medical consequences:

High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Kidney disease and/or failure
Gallbladder disease
Bone deterioration
Upper respiratory problems
Skin disorders
Menstrual irregularities 
Ovarian abnormalities
Complications of pregnancy
Depression, anxiety and other mood disorders
Suicidal thoughts
Substance abuse


Treatment Options:

Studies have found that people with binge eating disorder may find it harder than other people to continue in weight loss treatment. In addition, they may be more likely to regain weight quickly.  These are some of the reasons that people with binge eating disorder may require treatment that focuses on their binge eating before they try to lose weight. Further, even those who are not overweight are frequently distressed by their binge eating and may benefit from treatment.

There are several methods currently used to treat binge eating disorder. 

A. Cognitive-behavioral therapy: Method in which the client is taught techniques to monitor and change their eating habits, as well as to change the way they respond to difficult and stressful situations. 

B. Interpersonal psychotherapy: Method in which the client is taught to examine their relationships with friends and family and to make changes in problem areas. 

C. Medications: Antidepressants may be helpful for some individuals. 

D. Self-help groups: These groups may be a good additional source of support for many.

Research is still trying to attempting to determine which method or combination of methods is the most effective in controlling binge eating disorder. 

Often those who have binge eating disorder suffer with the disorder for years, feel ashamed, depressed may feel very alone. It is important to recognize that you are not alone, there are millions like you and there are successful treatment options available for you.  

To determine the type of treatment that is best suited for your situation treatment options should be discussed with a licensed mental health practitioner who can assess your needs.

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American Psychiatric Association  (1998), Eating Disorders.


Dept. of Health and Human Services (1987, 1995). Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia.


National Mental Health Association, Teens and Eating Disorders.


Binge Eating
