People with this recently recognized disorder have frequent episodes of compulsive overeating, but unlike those with bulimia, they do not purge their bodies of food (NIMH, 2002). During these food binges, they often eat alone and very quickly, regardless of whether they feel hungry or full. They often feel shame or guilt over their actions. Unlike anorexia and bulimia, binge eating disorder occurs almost as often in men as in women (National Eating Disorders Association, 2002).
What medical problems can arise as a result of binge eating disorder?
Binge eating disorder can cause high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels. Other effects of binge eating disorder include fatigue, joint pain, Type II diabetes, gallbladder disease, and heart disease.
What is required for a formal diagnosis of an binge eating disorder?
At least two binge eating episodes a week, on average, for 6 months; and lacks control over his or her eating behavior (NIMH, 2002).
How is binge eating disorder treated? The goals and strategies for treating binge eating disorder are similar to those for bulimia. Binge eating disorder was recognized only recently as an eating disorder, and research is under way to study the effectiveness of different interventions (NIMH, 2002).
