Definition
Definition
A person with binge eating disorder often eats an unusually large amount of food and feels that eating is out of control. Binge eating disorder often occurs with bulimia nervosa, another eating disorder that may also involve purging.
In others, binge eating can happen without other eating disorders. For example, the person may feel upset about binge eating, but may not try to undo these feelings by vomiting, exercising, or taking laxatives.
Causes
Causes
It is not clear exactly what causes binge eating disorder. Since about half of people with binge eating disorder have a history of depression, it may be related to that condition. Studies also suggest that people with binge eating disorder may have other emotional problems, including low self-esteem, anger, and/or obsessive compulsive behavior.
The BrainDepression may be a cause of binge eating disorder.
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Risk Factors
Risk Factors
Binge eating disorder is more common in women. Other factors that may increase your chance of binge eating disorder include:
- Obesity
- Becoming overweight at a young age
- Yo-yo dieting
- History of depression, low self-esteem, and/or substance abuse
- History of sexual abuse
- Excess concern with body shape
Symptoms
Symptoms
Symptoms of binge eating disorder include:
- Eating quickly
- Eating until you are uncomfortably full
- Eating large amounts when you are not hungry
- Eating alone due to embarrassment
- Feeling disgusted, depressed, or guilty after eating
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. You may be referred to a mental health professional or eating disorder specialist. Binge eating is diagnosed when there are an average of at least two binge-eating episodes a week for 6 months, along with a lack of control over eating behavior.
Treatment
Treatment
Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment options include:
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
In cognitive-behavioral therapy, a mental health professional will teach you how to keep track of your eating and change your unhealthy eating habits. This may involve learning how to respond to tough situations and how to feel better about your body shape and weight.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy may help to reduce depression associated with binge eating disorder. Therapy options may include yoga or aerobic exercise.
Interpersonal Psychotherapy
In interpersonal psychotherapy, a counselor will help you look at your personal relationships and make changes in areas that are negatively affecting your life.
Medications
Certain antidepressant medications may be helpful for some people with binge eating disorder.
Prevention
Prevention
There is no known way to prevent binge eating disorder. If you have young children, however, it is important to display positive and healthy attitudes about eating and body image.
RESOURCES:
Something Fishy http://www.something-fishy.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
National Eating Disorder Information Centre http://www.nedic.ca
References:
http://www.anad.org/get-information/about-eating-disorders/binge-eating-disorder
Accessed May 20, 2014.
Binge eating disorder. Nemours Kids Health website. Available at:
http://kidshealth.org/teen/food_fitness/problems/binge_eating.html
Updated August 2011. Accessed May 20, 2014.
Binge eating disorder. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disorders website. Available at:
http://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/health-topics/weight-control/binge_eating/Pages/binge-eating-disorder.aspx
Updated October 25, 2013. Accessed May 20, 2014.
Vancampfort D, Vanderlinden J, De Hert M, et al. A systematic review on physical therapy interventions for patients with binge eating disorder. Disabil Rehabil. 2013;35(26):2191-2196.
Last Updated: 5/20/2014