In binge eating disorder, a person often eats an unusually large amount of food and feels her eating is out of control. Binge eating disorder often co-occurs with
bulimia nervosa
, another eating disorder that may involve purging.
Causes
It is not clear exactly what causes binge eating disorder. Since about half of people with binge eating disorder have a history of
depression
, it is possibly related to that condition. Studies also suggest that people with binge eating disorder may have other emotional problems that can include low self-esteem, anger, and/or
obsessive compulsive behavior
.
Risk Factors
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.
The following factors may increase your risk of binge eating disorder:
Feeling disgusted, depressed, or guilty after eating
Diagnosis
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. You may be referred to a mental health professional or eating disorder specialist. Binge eating is diagnosed when there are at least two binge-eating episodes a week, on average, for six months, along with a lack of control over eating behavior.
Treatment
Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment options include:
Cognitive-behavioral Therapy
In cognitive-behavioral therapy, a mental health professional will teach you how to keep track of your eating and change your unhealthy eating habits. This may involve learning how to respond to tough situations and feel better about your body shape and weight.
Interpersonal Psychotherapy
In interpersonal psychotherapy, a mental health professional will help you look at your personal relationships and make changes in areas that are negatively affecting your life.
Medications
Certain antidepressant medications may be beneficial for some people with binge eating disorder.
Prevention
There is no known way to prevent binge eating disorder. If you have young children, however, it is important to instill positive and healthy attitudes about eating and body image.
RESOURCES:
National Eating Disorders Association http://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org
Weight-control Information Network http://win.niddk.nih.gov
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Mental Illness Foundation http://www.fmm-mif.ca
National Eating Disorder Information Centre http://www.nedic.ca
References:
Binge eating disorder. Weight-control Information Network website. Available at:
http://win.niddk.nih.gov/publications/binge.htm
. Accessed June 26, 2007
Eating disorders. National Mental Health Information Center website. Available at:
http://mentalhealth.samhsa.gov/publications/allpubs/ken98-0047/default.asp
#top
.
Accessed June 26, 2007
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
