How do binge eating disorders develop

People typically develop them as a way of dealing with a deeper issue or another psychological condition, such as anxiety or depression. This article looks at the symptoms, causes, and health risks of BED, as well as how to get help and support to overcome it. Emotional stress or destress often plays a role and might trigger a period of binge eating. A person might feel a sense of release or relief during a binge but experience feelings of shame or loss of control afterward 1 , 2.

For a healthcare professional to diagnose BED, three or more of the following symptoms must be present:. People with BED often experience feelings of extreme unhappiness and distress about their overeating, body shape, and weight 1 , 2 , 3. BED is characterized by repeated episodes of uncontrolled intake of unusually large amounts of food in a short period of time.

These episodes are accompanied by feelings of guilt, shame, and psychological distress. The causes of BED are not well understood but likely due to a variety of risk factors, including:. An episode of binge eating can be triggered by stress, dieting, negative feelings relating to body weight or body shape, the availability of food, or boredom 1.

The causes of BED are not fully known. As with other eating disorders, a variety of genetic, environmental, social, and psychological risks are associated with its development. While some people may occasionally overeat, such as at Thanksgiving or a party, it does not mean they have BED, despite having experienced some of the symptoms listed above.

BED typically starts in the late teens to early twenties, although it can occur at any age. People generally need support to help overcome BED and develop a healthy relationship with food. If left untreated, BED can last for many years To be diagnosed, a person must have had at least one binge eating episode per week for a minimum of three months 1 , 2. The severity ranges from mild, which is characterized by one to three binge eating episodes per week, to extreme, which is characterized by 14 or more episodes per week 1 , 2.

This means that, unlike bulimia, a person with BED does not throw up, take laxatives, or over-exercise to try and counteract a binging episode. However, the disorder is also an independent risk factor for gaining weight and developing obesity. This is due to the increased calorie intake during binging episodes 8. On its own, obesity increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and cancer Other health risks associated with BED include sleep problems, chronic pain conditions , asthma, and irritable bowel syndrome IBS 16 , 17 , In women, the condition is associated with a risk of fertility problems, pregnancy complications, and the development of polycystic ovary syndrome PCOS Research has shown that people with BED report challenges with social interactions, compared with people without the condition BED is linked to an increased risk of weight gain and obesity, as well as associated diseases like diabetes and heart disease.

There are also other health risks, including sleep problems, chronic pain, mental health problems, and reduced quality of life. The treatment plan for BED depends on the causes and severity of the eating disorder, as well as individual goals. Treatment may target binge eating behaviors, excess weight, body image, mental health issues, or a combination of these.

Therapy options include cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal psychotherapy, dialectical behavior therapy, weight loss therapy, and medication.

These may be carried out on a one-to-one basis, in a group setting, or in a self-help format. In some people, just one type of therapy may be required, while others may need to try different combinations until they find the right fit.

A medical or mental health professional can provide advice on selecting an individual treatment plan. Cognitive behavioral therapy CBT for BED focuses on analyzing the relationships between negative thoughts, feelings, and behaviors related to eating, body shape, and weight 2 , Once the causes of negative emotions and patterns have been identified, strategies can be developed to help people change them 2.

This organization seeks to enhance the lives of the persons served in healthcare settings through a consultative accreditation process emphasizing quality, value and optimal outcomes of services.

Learn more about this accreditation here. Skip to main content. Types of Treatment. What To Expect. Clinical Assessment. Request Health Records. Comprehensive Care Approach. Alumni Support. Family Programming. Stories of Hope. Alumni Support and Aftercare. In the News. Media Center. Downloadable Resources. Support Groups.

Men and women of any age can get binge eating disorder, but it usually starts in the late teens or early 20s. You can get advice and support during the coronavirus outbreak from the eating disorder charity Beat. The main symptom of binge eating disorder is eating a lot of food in a short time and not being able to stop when full. Other symptoms include:. They'll ask you about your eating habits and how you're feeling, and check your weight and overall health. The GP should refer you to an eating disorder specialist or team of specialists if they think you have binge eating disorder or another eating disorder.

It can be hard to admit you need help with an eating disorder, so bringing a friend or loved one with you to your appointment may help.