Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is a serious, life-threatening eating disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating. Binge-eating episodes are associated with feelings of shame, guilt, and disgust. Though BED was only recognized as a distinct eating disorder in 2013, it is now estimated to be the most common eating disorder in the United States.
Individuals with binge-eating disorder may eat large quantities of food in a short period of time, often secretly, and feeling out of control. This can lead to serious health problems such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.
It affects both men and women, although it is more common in women affecting 3.5% of women, 2% of men, and 1.6% of adolescents in the US. It usually begins in young adulthood, but can occur at any age. People with Binge Eating Disorder often feel ashamed or embarrassed about binge eating and try to keep it a secret from others.
Binge-eating disorder is treatable. With professional help, people with binge-eating disorder can learn to control their eating and develop healthy coping skills to deal with difficult emotions.
Common Signs of Binge Eating Disorder
During a binge, an individual may eat an excessive amount of food in a short period of time and feel unable to stop eating even when they are full. There are several common signs and symptoms of binge eating disorder, including:
Unhealthy obsession with food – One sign of binge eating disorder is the obsession with food. This may manifest itself in constant thoughts about food, as well as planning meals to an excessive degree. Those with BED may also hoard food or hide it so that they can eat it in secret.
Feelings of sadness, worthlessness, and shame – Individuals with binge eating disorder often feel shame, sadness, and worthlessness. They may also struggle with body image issues and depression.
Loss of control and discipline – Before or during an episode of binge eating, people with BED often feel out of control over their eating.
Feeling dissatisfied with one’s body size – Individuals with BED frequently experience weight fluctuations. These weight fluctuations can lead to feelings of dissatisfaction with one’s body size.
High cholesterol level – As a result of unhealthy eating habits, people with BED also tend to have high blood cholesterol levels.
Periodic fasting – Another sign of binge eating disorder is periodic fasting. This may involve going for long periods of time without eating, or only eating very small amounts of food. This can lead to health problems such as dehydration and malnutrition.
Other symptoms also include purging behaviors, such as vomiting or using laxatives. These behaviors can lead to serious medical complications, such as dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and heart problems.
If you or someone you know is exhibiting these signs, it’s important to seek professional help. Binge eating disorder can be treated with medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
Who Is This Binge Eating Quiz For?
If you think you may have a problem with binge eating, this quiz is for you. It is not a diagnostic tool but can help you figure out your relationship with food and your body.
The quiz consists of a few questions about your eating habits and how they make you feel. Answer each question as honestly as you can. In the end, you’ll get a score that indicates whether or not you might have a problem with binge eating.
How Accurate Is This Quiz?
This quiz is NOT a tool to identify mental health disorders. Only a licensed mental health care professional or specialist can diagnose mental health disorders.
MySelfCareNotes believes that self-assessments can be an initial step toward getting treatment. Too many people tend to avoid seeking professional assistance out of fear that their objections are not serious or legit enough.
