Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is a serious psychological disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of compulsive overeating. BED is the most common eating disorder in the United States, affecting up to 3.5% of American adults.
Binge eating is defined as consuming large amounts of food in a short period of time, followed by feelings of guilt or shame. BED is usually accompanied by depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and other psychological disorders. People with BED may also have difficulty regulating their emotions and may engage in other disordered eating behaviors, such as skipping meals, fasting, or purging.
The underlying cause of BED is unclear. It is thought to be related to psychological, biological, and environmental factors. Common psychological triggers may include stress, anxiety, negative body image, and low self-esteem. Biological factors, such as genetics, hormones, and neurotransmitters, may also play a role in the development of BED. Environmental factors, such as family dynamics, culture, and access to food, may also contribute to the disorder.
Common symptoms of BED include recurrent episodes of binge eating, a sense of lack of control over eating, eating large amounts of food even when not hungry, feelings of shame or guilt about eating, and eating rapidly during binges.
If left untreated, BED can lead to serious physical and psychological complications. These include obesity, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, and other cardiovascular problems. It can also increase the risk of depression, anxiety, and substance abuse.
If you suspect you or a loved one may have BED, it is important to seek help as soon as possible. Treatment options depend on the individual, but may include cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychotherapy, nutritional counseling, and medication.
