Binge Eating Disorder (BED)

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Binge eating disorder is characterized by recurrent episodes of eating an unusually large amount of food in a short period, with a sense of loss of control and significant distress afterward. Unlike bulimia, episodes are not regularly followed by purging. It is the most common eating disorder and affects people of every body size. Dieting and restriction often keep the cycle going.

To start working on the binge cycle between sessions, see The Food War Within workbook.

• Eating until uncomfortably full or physically ill
• Weight fluctuation
• Abdominal pain, bloating, and stomach cramps
• Fatigue and low energy
• Difficulty concentrating
• Disrupted sleep

• Eating large amounts of food when not physically hungry
• Sense of lack of control during episodes
• Eating rapidly during episodes
• Eating alone or in secret because of embarrassment
• Hoarding or hiding food
• Feelings of shame, guilt, or disgust after eating
• Frequent dieting or cycles of restriction and bingeing
• Using food to cope with emotions

• Type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance
• High blood pressure
• Elevated cholesterol and triglycerides
• Cardiovascular disease
• Gastrointestinal complications, including acid reflux
• Gallbladder disease
• Sleep apnea
• Joint and muscle pain

• Depression
• Anxiety disorders
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Substance Use Disorder

Not all symptoms must be present. Because binge eating disorder can look different in each person, a full assessment with an eating disorder specialist is important for accurate diagnosis and treatment.