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'''Binge eating disorder''' ('''BED''') is an eating disorder characterized by [[binge eating]] without subsequent purging episodes. The disorder was first described in 1959 by [[psychiatrist]] and [[research]]er Albert Stunkard as "night eating syndrome" (NES), and the term "binge eating disorder" was coined to describe the same binging-type eating behavior without the exclusive [[nocturnal]] component. BED usually leads to [[obesity]] although it can occur in normal weight individuals. There may be a genetic inheritance factor involved in BED independent of other obesity risks and there is also a higher incidence of psychiatric comorbidity, with the percentage of individuals with BED and an [[Axis I]] [[comorbid]] psychiatric disorder being 78.9% and 63.6% for those with subclinical BED.
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[[File:Periwinkle ribbon.svg|Periwinkle ribbon|thumb]]
{{Infobox medical condition
== What is binge eating disorder? ==
| name            = Binge eating disorder
Binge eating disorder is a type of eating disorder. Eating disorders are mental health problems that cause extreme and dangerous eating behaviors. These extreme eating behaviors cause other serious health problems and sometimes death. Some eating disorders also involve extreme exercise.
| image          = [[File:Periwinkle_ribbon.svg|alt=Periwinkle ribbon symbolizing eating disorder awareness]]
 
| caption        = Periwinkle ribbon symbolizing eating disorder awareness
According to the American Psychiatric Association, women with binge eating disorder feel out of control and eat too much (binge), at least once a week for at least three months. During binges women with binge eating disorder usually eat faster than normal, eat until they are uncomfortable, eat when they are not physically hungry, and feel embarrassed, disgusted, or depressed because of the binges. Women with this type of eating disorder may be overweight or obese.
| field          = [[Psychiatry]]
 
| symptoms        = Recurrent episodes of [[binge eating]], lack of control during episodes, distress about binge eating
== What is the difference between binge eating disorder and other eating disorders? ==
| complications  = [[Obesity]], [[type 2 diabetes]], [[cardiovascular disease]], [[depression]], [[anxiety disorders]]
Women with eating disorders, such as binge eating disorder, bulimia, and anorexia, have a mental health condition that affects how they eat, and sometimes how they exercise. These eating disorders threaten their health.
| onset          = Typically in [[adolescence]] or [[young adulthood]]
 
| duration        = Can be [[chronic]]
Unlike people with anorexia or bulimia, people with binge eating disorder do not throw up their food, exercise a lot, or starve themselves. People with binge eating disorder are often overweight or obese. But not all people with binge eating disorder are overweight, and being overweight does not always mean you have binge eating disorder.
| causes          = [[Genetic]], [[biological]], [[psychological]], and [[environmental factors]]
 
| risks          = [[Family history]], [[dieting]], [[psychological issues]]
It is possible to have more than one eating disorder in your lifetime. Regardless of what type of eating disorder you may have, you can get better with treatment.
| diagnosis      = Based on [[DSM-5]] criteria
 
| differential    = [[Bulimia nervosa]], [[obesity]], [[depression]]
== Who is at risk for binge eating disorder? ==
| treatment      = [[Cognitive behavioral therapy]], [[interpersonal psychotherapy]], [[medications]] such as [[antidepressants]]
Binge eating disorder affects more than 3% of women in the United States. More than half of people with binge eating disorder are women.1
| prognosis      = Varies; treatment can improve symptoms
 
| frequency      = Affects about 1-2% of the population
Binge eating disorder affects women of all races and ethnicities. It is the most common eating disorder among Hispanic, Asian-American, and African-American women.2,3,4
}}
 
'''Binge Eating Disorder''' ('''BED''') is a serious and common [[eating disorder]] characterized by recurrent episodes of [[binge eating]] without regular compensatory behaviors such as [[purging]], [[fasting]], or excessive [[exercise]]. It is distinct from other eating disorders like [[anorexia nervosa]] and [[bulimia nervosa]], though it shares some psychological characteristics. BED is officially recognized in the ''[[Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders|DSM-5]]'' and is associated with physical, emotional, and psychological health consequences.
Some women may be more at risk for binge eating disorder.
== History ==
 
The term "binge eating disorder" was first introduced by [[psychiatrist]] Albert Stunkard in 1959, who initially described the behavior as part of "[[night eating syndrome]]". It was later recognized as a separate diagnostic entity in the early 1990s. BED was formally added to the DSM-5 in 2013 as a distinct eating disorder.
* Women and girls who diet often are 12 times more likely to binge eat than women and girls who do not diet.5
== Diagnostic Criteria ==
* Binge eating disorder affects more young and middle-aged women than older women. On average, women develop binge eating disorder in their early to mid-20s.6 But eating disorders are happening more often in older women. In one study, 13% of American women over 50 had signs of an eating disorder.7
According to the DSM-5, BED is characterized by:
 
* Recurring episodes of binge eating (at least once a week for three months), defined as:
== What are the symptoms of binge eating disorder? ==
** Eating, in a discrete period, an amount of food larger than most people would eat under similar circumstances.
It can be difficult to tell whether someone has binge eating disorder. Many women with binge eating disorder hide their behavior because they are embarrassed.  
** A sense of lack of control during the episode.
 
* Episodes are associated with at least three of the following:
You may have binge eating disorder if, for at least once a week over the past three months, you have binged. Binge eating disorder means you have at least three of these symptoms while binging:8
** Eating much more rapidly than normal
 
** Eating until uncomfortably full
* Eating faster than normal
** Eating large amounts of food when not physically hungry
* Eating until uncomfortably full
** Eating alone due to embarrassment
* Eating large amounts of food when not hungry
** Feeling disgusted, depressed, or guilty afterward
* Eating alone because of embarrassment
* Marked distress regarding binge eating
* Feeling disgusted, depressed, or guilty afterward
* The behavior is not associated with regular compensatory behaviors (as seen in bulimia nervosa)
 
== Causes and Risk Factors ==
People with binge eating disorder may also have other mental health problems, such as depression, anxiety, or substance abuse.
The exact causes of BED are not fully understood, but a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors likely contribute. These include:
 
* [[Genetics]] and family history
== What causes binge eating disorder? ==
* Hormonal or neurochemical imbalances (e.g., [[dopamine]], [[serotonin]])
Researchers are not sure exactly what causes binge eating disorder and other eating disorders. Researchers think that eating disorders might happen because of a combination of a person's biology and life events. This combination includes having specific genes, a person's biology, body image and self-esteem, social experiences, family health history, and sometimes other mental health illnesses.
* Psychological factors such as [[depression]], [[anxiety disorders]], and [[low self-esteem]]
 
* History of [[trauma]], [[abuse]], or [[neglect]]
Studies suggest that people with binge eating disorder may use overeating as a way to deal with anger, sadness, boredom, anxiety, or stress.9,10
* Chronic [[dieting]] and [[body image]] dissatisfaction
 
* Social and cultural pressures around body weight and appearance
Researchers are studying how changing levels of brain chemicals may affect eating habits. Neuroimaging, or pictures of the brain, may lead to a better understanding of binge eating disorder.11
== Signs and Symptoms ==
 
Symptoms may include:
Learn more about current research on binge eating disorder.
* Frequent episodes of consuming large quantities of food
 
* A feeling of loss of control while eating
== How does binge eating disorder affect a woman's health? ==
* Eating in secret or alone
Many, but not all, women with binge eating disorder are overweight or obese. Obesity raises your risk for many serious health problems:12
* Emotional distress before, during, or after binging
 
* Fluctuations in weight
* Type 2 diabetes
* Feelings of shame or guilt related to eating
* Heart disease
* Avoidance of social activities involving food
* High blood pressure
== Health Complications ==
* High cholesterol
BED is often associated with [[obesity]], though individuals with normal weight can also be affected. Potential health risks include:
* Gallbladder disease
* [[Type 2 diabetes]]
* Certain types of cancer, including breast, endometrial (a type of uterine cancer), colorectal, kidney, esophageal, pancreatic, thyroid, and gallbladder cancer13
* [[Cardiovascular disease]]
* Problems with your menstrual cycle, including preventing ovulation, which can make it harder to get pregnant
* [[High blood pressure]]
 
* [[High cholesterol]]
People with binge eating disorder often have other serious mental health illnesses such as depression, anxiety, or substance abuse. These problems can seriously affect a woman's everyday life and can be treated.
* [[Gallbladder disease]]
 
* [[Polycystic ovary syndrome]] (PCOS)
== How is binge eating disorder diagnosed? ==
* [[Sleep apnea]]
Your doctor or nurse will ask you questions about your symptoms and medical history. It may be difficult to talk to a doctor or nurse about secret eating behaviors. But doctors and nurses want to help you be healthy. Being honest about your eating behaviors with a doctor or nurse is a good way to ask for help.
* Gastrointestinal problems
 
* [[Menstrual irregularities]] and fertility issues
Your doctor may also do blood, urine, or other tests for other health problems, such as heart problems or gallbladder disease, that can be caused by binge eating disorder.
BED is also associated with mental health disorders such as:
 
* [[Major depressive disorder]]
== How is binge eating disorder treated? ==
* [[Generalized anxiety disorder]]
Your doctor may refer you to a team of doctors, nutritionists, and therapists who will work to help you get better.
* [[Post-traumatic stress disorder]] (PTSD)
 
* [[Substance use disorders]]
Treatment plans may include one or more of the following:
== Diagnosis ==
 
Diagnosis involves a clinical assessment by a healthcare professional, often including:
* '''Psychotherapy.''' Sometimes called "talk therapy," psychotherapy is counseling to help you change any harmful thoughts or behaviors. This therapy may focus on the importance of talking about your feelings and how they affect what you do. For example, you might talk about how stress triggers a binge. You may work one-on-one with a therapist or in a group with others who have binge eating disorder.
* Structured interviews
* '''Nutritional counseling.''' A registered dietitian can help you eat in a healthier way.
* Self-reported questionnaires
* '''Medicine,''' such as appetite suppressants or antidepressants prescribed by a doctor. Antidepressants may help some girls and women with binge eating disorder who also have anxiety or depression.
* Medical history and physical exam
 
* Psychological evaluation
Most girls and women do get better with treatment and are able to eat in healthy ways again.14 Some may get better after the first treatment. Others get well but may relapse and need treatment again.
== Treatment ==
 
BED is treatable. Treatment options include:
== How does binge eating disorder affect pregnancy? ==
=== Psychotherapy ===
Binge eating disorder can cause problems getting pregnant and during pregnancy. Pregnancy can also trigger binge eating disorder.
* '''[[Cognitive behavioral therapy]] (CBT)''': The most effective evidence-based treatment
 
* '''[[Interpersonal therapy]] (IPT)'''
Obesity raises the level of the hormone estrogen in your body. Higher levels of estrogen can stop you from ovulating, or releasing an egg from the ovary. This can make it more difficult to get pregnant. However, if you do not want to have children right now and have sex, you should use birth control.
* '''[[Dialectical behavior therapy]] (DBT)'''
 
=== Medications ===
Overweight or obesity may also cause problems during pregnancy. Overweight and obesity raises your risk for:
* [[Lisdexamfetamine]] (Vyvanse), the only FDA-approved medication for BED
 
* [[Antidepressants]] (SSRIs)
* Gestational hypertension (high blood pressure during pregnancy) and preeclampsia (high blood pressure and kidney problems during pregnancy). If not controlled, both problems can threaten the life of the mother and the baby.
* [[Topiramate]] and other off-label medications
 
=== Nutritional Counseling ===
* Gestational diabetes (diabetes that starts during pregnancy). If not controlled, gestational diabetes can cause you to have a large baby. This raises your risk for a C-section.15
* Education on balanced eating patterns
 
* Development of structured meal plans
Pregnancy can raise the risk for binge eating disorder in women who are at higher risk for eating disorders. In one study, almost half of the women with binge eating disorder got the condition during pregnancy. The research suggests that binge eating during pregnancy may be caused by:16
* Support for intuitive and mindful eating
 
=== Support Groups ===
* Worry over pregnancy weight gain. Women may binge because they feel a loss of control over their bodies because of the pregnancy weight.
* Peer-led support (e.g., [[Overeaters Anonymous]])
* Greater stress during pregnancy
* Community-based recovery programs
* Depression
== BED and Reproductive Health ==
* History of smoking and alcohol abuse
BED can affect [[fertility]] and [[pregnancy]]:
* Lack of social support
* Interferes with ovulation
 
* Increases risk of [[gestational diabetes]], [[preeclampsia]], and [[postpartum depression]]
After pregnancy, postpartum depression and weight from pregnancy can trigger binge eating disorder in women with a history of binge eating. Women with binge eating disorder before pregnancy often gain more weight during pregnancy than women without an eating disorder. Researchers think that weight gain during pregnancy may cause some women who had binge eating disorder before pregnancy to binge eat during pregnancy.17
* Can be triggered or exacerbated by hormonal changes during [[pregnancy]] and postpartum
 
== Epidemiology ==
== If I had an eating disorder in the past, can I still get pregnant? ==
* BED affects approximately 3.5% of women and 2.0% of men in the United States
Yes. Women who have recovered from binge eating disorder, are at a healthy weight, and have normal menstrual cycles have a better chance of getting pregnant and having a safe and healthy pregnancy.
* It is the most common eating disorder across racial and ethnic groups
 
* Onset is typically in late adolescence to early adulthood
Tell your doctor if you had an eating disorder in the past and are trying to become pregnant.
== Prognosis ==
 
With early intervention and comprehensive treatment, recovery is possible. Many individuals recover fully, though some may experience relapses. Long-term follow-up and support improve outcomes.
== If I take medicine to treat binge eating disorder, can I breastfeed my baby? ==
== See Also ==
Maybe. Some medicines used to treat binge eating disorder can pass through breastmilk. Certain antidepressants can be used safely during breastfeeding.
* [[Eating disorders]]
 
* [[Bulimia nervosa]]
Talk to your doctor to find out what medicine works best for you. Learn more about medicines and breastfeeding in our Breastfeeding section. You can also enter a medicine into the LactMed® database to find out if the medicine passes through breastmilk and about any possible side effects for your nursing baby.
* [[Anorexia nervosa]]
 
* [[Obesity]]
* [[Body dysmorphic disorder]]
* [[Mental health]]
* [[Intuitive eating]]
* [[Cognitive behavioral therapy]]
== External Links ==
* [https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/eating-disorders National Institute of Mental Health - Eating Disorders]
* [https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA)]
* [https://www.womenshealth.gov/mental-health/mental-health-conditions/eating-disorders Office on Women's Health - Eating Disorders]
{{Eating disorders}}
{{Mental and behavioral disorders}}
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[[Category:Eating disorders]]
[[Category:Eating disorders]]
[[Category:Medical conditions related to obesity]]
[[Category:Medical conditions related to obesity]]
[[Category:Mental health]]
[[Category:Hyperalimentation]]
[[Category:Hyperalimentation]]
[[Category:Psychiatric diagnosis]]

Latest revision as of 19:03, 4 April 2025

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
Founder, WikiMD Wellnesspedia &
W8MD's medical weight loss NYC, sleep center NYC
Philadelphia medical weight loss and Philadelphia sleep clinics

Binge eating disorder
Periwinkle ribbon symbolizing eating disorder awareness
Synonyms N/A
Pronounce N/A
Specialty N/A
Symptoms Recurrent episodes of binge eating, lack of control during episodes, distress about binge eating
Complications Obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, depression, anxiety disorders
Onset Typically in adolescence or young adulthood
Duration Can be chronic
Types N/A
Causes Genetic, biological, psychological, and environmental factors
Risks Family history, dieting, psychological issues
Diagnosis Based on DSM-5 criteria
Differential diagnosis Bulimia nervosa, obesity, depression
Prevention N/A
Treatment Cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal psychotherapy, medications such as antidepressants
Medication N/A
Prognosis Varies; treatment can improve symptoms
Frequency Affects about 1-2% of the population
Deaths N/A


Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is a serious and common eating disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating without regular compensatory behaviors such as purging, fasting, or excessive exercise. It is distinct from other eating disorders like anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa, though it shares some psychological characteristics. BED is officially recognized in the DSM-5 and is associated with physical, emotional, and psychological health consequences.

History[edit]

The term "binge eating disorder" was first introduced by psychiatrist Albert Stunkard in 1959, who initially described the behavior as part of "night eating syndrome". It was later recognized as a separate diagnostic entity in the early 1990s. BED was formally added to the DSM-5 in 2013 as a distinct eating disorder.

Diagnostic Criteria[edit]

According to the DSM-5, BED is characterized by:

  • Recurring episodes of binge eating (at least once a week for three months), defined as:
    • Eating, in a discrete period, an amount of food larger than most people would eat under similar circumstances.
    • A sense of lack of control during the episode.
  • Episodes are associated with at least three of the following:
    • Eating much more rapidly than normal
    • Eating until uncomfortably full
    • Eating large amounts of food when not physically hungry
    • Eating alone due to embarrassment
    • Feeling disgusted, depressed, or guilty afterward
  • Marked distress regarding binge eating
  • The behavior is not associated with regular compensatory behaviors (as seen in bulimia nervosa)

Causes and Risk Factors[edit]

The exact causes of BED are not fully understood, but a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors likely contribute. These include:

Signs and Symptoms[edit]

Symptoms may include:

  • Frequent episodes of consuming large quantities of food
  • A feeling of loss of control while eating
  • Eating in secret or alone
  • Emotional distress before, during, or after binging
  • Fluctuations in weight
  • Feelings of shame or guilt related to eating
  • Avoidance of social activities involving food

Health Complications[edit]

BED is often associated with obesity, though individuals with normal weight can also be affected. Potential health risks include:

BED is also associated with mental health disorders such as:

Diagnosis[edit]

Diagnosis involves a clinical assessment by a healthcare professional, often including:

  • Structured interviews
  • Self-reported questionnaires
  • Medical history and physical exam
  • Psychological evaluation

Treatment[edit]

BED is treatable. Treatment options include:

Psychotherapy[edit]

Medications[edit]

Nutritional Counseling[edit]

  • Education on balanced eating patterns
  • Development of structured meal plans
  • Support for intuitive and mindful eating

Support Groups[edit]

BED and Reproductive Health[edit]

BED can affect fertility and pregnancy:

Epidemiology[edit]

  • BED affects approximately 3.5% of women and 2.0% of men in the United States
  • It is the most common eating disorder across racial and ethnic groups
  • Onset is typically in late adolescence to early adulthood

Prognosis[edit]

With early intervention and comprehensive treatment, recovery is possible. Many individuals recover fully, though some may experience relapses. Long-term follow-up and support improve outcomes.

See Also[edit]

External Links[edit]



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