Closer Look: Binge-Eating Disorder

Binge-Eating Disorder is classified as an eating disorder not otherwise specified (EDNOS). However, it does not have a life-threatening consequence. Binge-Eating Disorder is defined as exhibiting recurrent binge eating without following a compensatory type of behavior like purging.

Symptoms include:

• frequent intake of large amounts of food in a short duration of time
• having no sense of control over eating during an episode
• feeling guilty, disgusted, and depressed because of over eating 
• eating alone because embarrassed of the amount of food intake 
• eating when not hungry/eating when uncomfortably full

Since no compensatory behavior takes place, BED can ultimately lead to clinical obesity. With obesity comes the regular health risks of being overweight. Some health risks include: 

• high blood pressure
• high cholesterol
• heart disease
• diabetes (type 2)
• gallbladder disease
• musculoskeletal issues

Binge-Eating Disorder effects more women than men. Some people who suffer with BED can be of average or above average weight. Most people feel shame and guilt for their overeating. BED is often associated with depression.