Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is the most common eating
disorder. It affects 3.5% of women and 2% of men. Binge eating disorder (BED) is characterized by recurrent
episodes of eating large amounts of food, quickly and to a point of feeling
uncomfortably full. The person has a sense of loss of control during the binge.
Afterwards they experience shame, guilt and disgust with themselves. Purging is
not a part of the disorder. Those who suffer from BED may be secretive about their eating.
They may not practice normal eating behaviors and instead skip meals or only
eat small portions at a meal and may engage in sporadic fasting and repetitive
dieting. There are health consequences associated with binge eating
disorder. Many of these consequences are related to unwanted weight gain due to
binge eating. These can include Type II diabetes, high cholesterol levels and
heart disease as a result of elevated triglyceride levels. Binge eating disorder is strongly associated with
depression, anxiety, guilt and shame. Possible risk factors include genetics,
mood disorders, trauma, abuse and neglect and problems with family or other
significant relationships. Effective treatments available for binge eating disorder
include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT),
dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) and psychotropic medications. A
nutritionist can help those suffering with BED help regain normal eating
patterns and learn about proper nutrition and having a balanced diet.
For more information on BED visit the following:
BEDA Binge Eating Disorder
Association www.bedaonline.com
ANAD
(Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders) www.anad.org
National Eating Disorder Association www.nationaleatingdisorder.org.
