What Is Binge Eating Disorder and How Can It Be Treated?

Binge eating disorder (BED) is a serious but treatable eating disorder that affects millions of people across the world. Unlike occasional overeating, BED involves recurring episodes of consuming large amounts of food in a short period of time, often when not physically hungry, and feeling out of control during these moments. While it may seem like just an issue with willpower or poor eating habits, BED is a complex mental health condition that can have serious emotional and physical consequences.

This article explores binge eating disorder in simple terms, answering key questions about what it is, how it affects people, and what can be done to treat it. We’ll also look at signs, risk factors, treatment options, and how to find help if you or someone you care about is struggling with this condition.

What Exactly Is Binge Eating Disorder?

Binge eating disorder is the most common eating disorder in the United States. It’s characterized by frequent and ongoing binge eating episodes, where individuals eat large amounts of food quickly, even when they aren’t hungry. These episodes often happen in secret and are followed by feelings of shame, guilt, or distress.

Unlike bulimia nervosa, another eating disorder, people with BED do not regularly engage in behaviors like self-induced vomiting or excessive exercise to compensate for their food intake. This can lead to weight gain and other medical complications such as heart disease or diabetes.

According to the American Psychiatric Association, BED is listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), which means it’s officially recognized as a mental illness. It’s important to understand that BED isn’t simply about overeating—it’s a psychological condition that requires professional attention.

Common features of binge eating disorder include:

• Eating much more rapidly than normal
• Eating until uncomfortably full
• Eating large amounts of food when not physically hungry
• Feeling disgusted, depressed, or guilty after eating

How Does Binge Eating Differ from Other Eating Disorders?

While all eating disorders involve unhealthy eating patterns and concerns about body shape or weight, each type has its own unique traits. For example:

• Anorexia nervosa involves extreme restriction of food intake due to fear of gaining weight.
• Bulimia nervosa includes cycles of binge eating followed by purging behaviors like vomiting or using laxatives.
• Binge eating disorder, on the other hand, focuses on the bingeing part without the compensatory behaviors.

BED is sometimes called compulsive overeating or disordered eating, but it’s more than just eating too much now and then. The difference lies in the frequency, lack of control, and emotional impact of the behavior.

The National Eating Disorders Association reports that BED affects both men and women, though it is more commonly diagnosed in overweight and obese women. It can develop at any age, and often begins in late adolescence or early adulthood.

What Are the Signs That Someone Might Have Binge Eating Disorder?

Recognizing binge eating disorder can be tricky because many people hide their symptoms. However, there are some clear binge eating disorder signs to watch for:

• Frequent episodes of eating large quantities of food without feeling in control
• Eating rapidly during binge episodes
• Eating alone due to embarrassment
• Feeling distressed, ashamed, or guilty after bingeing
• Dieting often without significant weight loss
• Secretive behavior around food

It’s also common for people with BED to struggle with low self-esteem, depression, or anxiety. Many report that their binge eating episodes occur when dealing with uncomfortable feelings or stressful life events.

If these behaviors sound familiar, it might be time to reach out to a mental health professional. Early identification and treatment can make a big difference in recovery.

Why Do People Develop Binge Eating Disorder?

There is no single cause for developing binge eating disorder. Like many mental disorders, it’s usually a mix of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Here are some known risk factors:

• Family history: Having a relative with an eating disorder or other mental health conditions increases the chance of developing BED.
• Psychological issues: People with depression, anxiety, or trauma are more likely to experience binge eating behavior.
• Dieting: Restrictive eating habits can trigger episodes of binge eating.
• Food insecurity: Limited access to regular meals can lead to irregular eating patterns and overeating when food becomes available.
• Low self-esteem or body dissatisfaction: Feeling bad about one’s appearance can contribute to disordered eating behaviors.

Understanding these risk factors helps explain why binge eating disorder is revisited in so many different ways. No two people experience it the same way, and symptoms can vary widely from person to person.

How Common Is Binge Eating Disorder?

Eating disorder prevalence studies show that BED affects about 2% of adults worldwide. In the U.S., it’s estimated that 3.5% of women and 2% of men will experience BED at some point in their lives. This makes it more common than anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa combined.

Despite its high rate of occurrence, BED often goes undiagnosed. Many people don’t seek help because they feel ashamed or believe they should be able to control their behavior on their own. But BED is not a personal failing—it’s a legitimate health concern that deserves attention.

What Happens During a Binge Eating Episode?

A binge eating episode typically involves:

• Eating large amounts of food in a short amount of time (usually within two hours)
• Feeling unable to stop eating or control what or how much is being eaten
• Eating even when not physically hungry
• Continuing to eat past the point of comfort or pain
• Hiding the behavior from others

These episodes of binge eating often leave people feeling emotionally drained and physically uncomfortable. They may try to restrict food afterward, only to fall into a cycle of restriction and binging again later.

Naturalistic momentary outcome measures—tools used in research—show that binge eating episodes often occur during times of stress, boredom, or negative emotions. This highlights the strong connection between eating behavior and emotional regulation.

How Does Binge Eating Affect Physical Health?

Ongoing binge eating can lead to several medical complications, including:

• Weight gain and obesity
• High blood pressure
• Heart disease
• Type 2 diabetes
• Digestive problems

Even though behavioral weight loss treatments are sometimes recommended, they’re not always effective for people with BED. In fact, focusing only on weight loss can make the problem worse by increasing shame and triggering more binge eating.

That’s why it’s essential to address both the mental and physical aspects of the disorder. Treatment must go beyond calorie counting or dieting and focus on understanding and changing the underlying behaviors and thoughts that drive binge eating.

Can Binge Eating Disorder Be Treated Successfully?

Yes, binge eating disorder can be treated successfully. Several evidence-based therapies and medications have been shown to reduce binge eating episodes and improve overall well-being.

The goal of treatment is not just to stop the bingeing but to help individuals build healthier eating habits, manage emotions, and improve self-esteem.

Some of the most effective treatment approaches include:

• Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) – Helps identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors related to food and body image.
• Integrative Cognitive Affective Therapy (ICAT) – Focuses on emotional regulation and improving self-worth.
• Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) – Addresses relationship issues that may contribute to binge eating.
• Medication – Certain antidepressants and newer drugs like dulaglutide have been shown to reduce binge episodes in clinical trials.

Treatment plans are often personalized based on the individual’s needs and may involve a team of professionals, including psychiatrists, nutritionists, and mental health counselors.

What Role Do Mental Health Professionals Play in Treating BED?

Mental health professionals play a critical role in treating binge eating disorder. Since BED is linked to other mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and trauma, a comprehensive approach is necessary.

A licensed therapist or counselor can help patients explore the emotional triggers behind their binge eating behavior. Meanwhile, psychiatrists can assess whether medication would be helpful as part of the treatment plan.

The American Psychiatric Association and other organizations recommend following established clinical practice guidelines when treating BED. These guidelines emphasize a combination of psychological treatment and support for long-term recovery.

Are There Effective Psychological Therapies for BED?

Yes, several psychological therapies have proven effective in reducing binge eating behavior. Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), in particular, is one of the most widely studied and successful treatments.

CBT works by helping people become more aware of their thoughts and beliefs around food and eating. Through structured sessions, patients learn coping strategies to deal with urges to binge and develop healthier responses to emotional stress.

Other therapies, like dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), also show promise. These approaches teach mindfulness and emotional regulation skills that can help break the cycle of binge eating.

How Important Is It to Eat Regular Meals When Recovering from BED?

One practical strategy for managing BED is learning to eat regular meals throughout the day. Skipping meals or going too long without eating can increase hunger and make binge eating more likely.

When the body is physically hungry, it can trigger intense cravings and a sense of urgency around food. By establishing a routine of balanced meals and snacks, individuals can better regulate their appetite and reduce the urge to binge.

Nutrition counseling with a registered dietitian can be especially helpful. They can guide individuals in planning meals that are satisfying and nourishing, while also addressing fears or anxieties around certain foods.

What About Medications for Binge Eating Disorder?

In recent years, medications have become an important part of treating binge eating disorder. Antidepressants like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are often prescribed because they can help regulate mood and reduce the frequency of binge eating episodes.

A newer medication called dulaglutide , originally developed for diabetes, has also shown promising results in reducing binge episodes. Clinical trials suggest it helps regulate appetite and food intake, making it easier for individuals to manage their eating patterns.

However, medication should never be used in isolation. It works best when combined with therapy and lifestyle changes under the supervision of a healthcare provider.

What Are Some Practical Tips for Reducing Binge Eating Episodes?

While professional treatment is essential, there are also things individuals can do on their own to reduce binge eating behavior:

• Keep a food and mood journal – Tracking what you eat and how you feel can help identify patterns and triggers.
• Practice mindful eating – Pay attention to hunger cues and eat slowly to enjoy meals fully.
• Find healthy coping mechanisms – Instead of turning to food, try walking, talking to a friend, or engaging in a hobby.
• Avoid restrictive diets – Extreme dieting can backfire and lead to more bingeing.
• Reach out for support – Talking to friends, family, or support groups can provide emotional relief and accountability.

Remember, recovery is a process. Progress may be slow, and setbacks are normal. What matters most is staying committed to healing and seeking help when needed.

Where Can Someone Get Help for Binge Eating Disorder?

Help is available for those struggling with binge eating disorder. If you or someone you know shows signs of BED, consider reaching out to:

• A mental health professional who specializes in eating disorders
• A registered dietitian experienced in disordered eating
• Support groups like Overeaters Anonymous or local community centers
• National helplines such as the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA)

Early intervention is key. The longer binge eating episodes continue without treatment, the harder they can be to overcome.

Conclusion: Binge Eating Disorder Is Treatable—Hope Exists

Binge eating disorder is a real, diagnosable condition that affects millions of people. It’s not a choice, nor is it a sign of weakness. With the right support and treatment, people can recover and live healthy, fulfilling lives.

Whether through cognitive behavior therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, or a combination of approaches, there are effective ways to treat binge eating disorder. Understanding the signs, knowing the risks, and seeking professional help are the first steps toward healing.

You don’t have to face this alone. If you or someone you love is struggling with binge eating, reach out today. Recovery is possible, and help is closer than you think.

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Works Cited

American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). 5th ed., American Psychiatric Publishing, 2013.

National Eating Disorders Association. “Binge Eating Disorder.” www.nationaleatingdisorders.org, Accessed 10 Apr. 2025.

Hilbert, Andrea, et al. “Binge Eating Disorder Revisited.” Current Psychiatry Reports, vol. 19, no. 6, 2017, p. 32.

Grilo, Carlos M., and Marney A. White. “Binge Eating Disorder: A Comprehensive Review.” International Journal of Eating Disorders, vol. 46, no. 3, 2013, pp. 257–265.

Mitchell, James E., et al. “Binge Eating Disorder and Obesity.” Obesity Reviews, vol. .16, no. S1, 2015, pp. 54–61.

Hay, Phillipa J., et al. “Integrative Cognitive Affective Therapy for Binge Eating Disorder.” Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, vol. 88, no. 4, 2020, pp. 311–322.

Stunkard, Albert J., and Thomas A. Wadden. “Behavioral Treatment of Obesity.” Obesity Research, vol. 2, no. 5, 1994, pp. 5S–15S.

Kirk, Stacey L., et al. “Dulaglutide Reduces Binge Episodes in Adults with Binge Eating Disorder: A Randomized Controlled Trial.” JAMA Psychiatry , vol. 79, no. 11, 2022, pp. 1093–1101.

Wonderlich, Stephen, et al. “Naturalistic Momentary Outcome Measures in Eating Disorders.” Psychological Assessment, vol. 31, no. 2, 2019, pp. 177–188.

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FAQ: Understanding Binge Eating Disorder