What is Binge Eating Disorder?

Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is an eating disorder characterized by:

• Recurrent episodes of binge eating.
• Binge eating episodes are associated with eating much more rapidly than normal, eating until uncomfortably full, eating large amounts of food when not physically hungry, eating alone because of feeling embarrassed by how much one is eating, or feeling disgusted with oneself, depressed, or very guilty afterwards.
• Distress related to binge eating.
• Binge eating occurs at least once per week for at least three months.

What is Binge Eating?

• Binge eating can be eating an amount of food that is definitely larger than what most people would eat in a similar period of time under similar circumstances.
• Binge eating can also be feeling as though one cannot stop eating or control what or how much one is eating.

Children and adolescents with Binge Eating Disorder can present in a variety of ways. Some children may appear uncomfortable eating around others and may withdraw from their usual friends and activities. They may frequently diet, take food, or store food in unusual places. After they engage in binge eating, they may engage in compensatory behaviors to attempt to prevent weight gain. Parents may notice large amounts of food have disappeared or find food wrappers and containers hidden in their child’s bedroom or space. Parents may also notice a disruption in their child’s normal eating behaviors, such as eating planned meals. Parents may notice that their child typically enters the bathroom after meals or wants to be alone after eating. Children and adolescents with Binge Eating Disorder may also create a lifestyle that makes time for binge and purge sessions. They typically show significant concern about weight and shape and their weight may fluctuate frequently. They may show signs of low self-esteem, depression, guilt, shame, and anxiety.

Common Physical Complications Associated with Binge Eating

Medical complications including:

• Obesity (which has been associated with high cholesterol, high blood pressure, gall bladder disease, diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer)
• Swollen salivary glands
• Abdominal discomfort