Binge-eating disorder

Binge-eating disorder (BED) develops when binge episodes occur weekly for 3+ months. When binge-eating, people often feel a loss of control and consume much more than what the average person would eat in the same period of time. These episodes are followed by guilt and distress, leading to more food consumption, initiating the binge cycle. Unlike bulimics, binge-eaters don’t engage in compensatory behaviors (e.g., self-induced vomiting after eating).

Common signs/symptoms: 

  • Extreme shame or disgust after eating
  • Eating despite being not hungry
  • Eating large amounts of food in secret
  • Allocation of time specifically for bingeing
  • Sleep problems
  • Stealing/storing food in odd locations 
  • Depression, anxiety
  • Fatigue, irritability

Medical complications:

  • Increased risk of Type 2 diabetes
  • High B/P
  • Cardiac/gallbladder disease
  • Certain forms of cancer
  • Electrolyte imbalance

NOTE:

💡For many binge-eaters, the source of the bingeing episodes is very emotional… whether it be low self-esteem or trouble at school/work.

💡Like bulimia, binge episodes in BED may be evident in the disappearance of large quantities of food and wrappers.

You're not alone.

We're here to help.

CALL/TEXT THE NEDA HELPLINE AT (800) 931-2237 IF YOU OR ANYONE ELSE MAY NEED ASSISTANCE.

*ABSENCE OF CERTAIN EATING DISORDER SIGNS/SYMPTOMS DOES NOT MEAN THAT ONE SHOULD NOT SEEK PROFESSIONAL HELP.

Contact Us