Binge eating disorder is characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating, where individuals consume larger amounts of food than most people would in the same situation. Other behaviors associated with binge eating disorder include eating quickly, eating beyond the point of fullness, eating when not hungry, and eating alone. People with binge eating disorder often experience intense feelings of “loss of control,” as well as shame and guilt. Individuals with binge eating disorder are at a higher risk for developing various health conditions, including type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, polycystic ovarian syndrome, high LDL cholesterol, chronic pain, sleep problems, asthma, gastrointestinal symptoms, and cardiovascular problems.

Emotional and behavioral signs and symptoms of binge eating disorder:
Engages in episodes of consuming large amounts of food quickly, often in secret.
Avoids eating in public or with others and feels embarrassed about the amount of food eaten.
Hides or stores food in unusual places.
Fails to maintain weight loss despite efforts through diet, exercise, or weight loss medications.
Establishes routines or rituals to make time for binge eating.

Physical signs and symptoms of binge eating disorder:
Noticeable weight fluctuations.
Stomach cramps and other gastrointestinal issues.
Trouble focusing.

Conditions that often occur together with binge eating disorder:
Anxiety disorders, such as generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, phobias, panic disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
Bipolar Disorder.
Depression and other mood disorders.
Substance use disorders.
Suicidality.

Diagnosis and treatment of binge eating disorder.
In 2013, binge eating disorder was recognized as a new type of eating disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V). It is the second most common eating disorder, with Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorders (OSFED) being the only one diagnosed more frequently. Binge eating disorder affects approximately 2.7% of women, 1.7% of men, and 1.8% of adolescents. This disorder can be found in people of all ages, races, ethnic backgrounds, and income levels. Although it is most prevalent in adults, studies have shown that it also affects around 1.8% of all adolescents.

In order to diagnose binge eating disorder, certain criteria must be met according to the DSM-5 TR. These criteria include recurrent episodes of binge eating, where a person consumes a larger amount of food than most people would in a similar time period. During these episodes, there is a sense of lack of control over eating. Additionally, binge eating episodes are associated with certain behaviors such as eating rapidly, eating until feeling uncomfortably full, eating when not physically hungry, eating alone due to embarrassment, and feeling disgusted, depressed, or guilty afterward. The individual must also experience marked distress regarding their binge eating, and these episodes must occur at least once a week for a period of three months. It is important to note that binge eating is not accompanied by compensatory behaviors like purging, and it does not occur exclusively during the course of bulimia nervosa or anorexia nervosa.

Managing binge eating disorder involves collaborating with a team of healthcare professionals specializing in this type of eating disorder. The team may consist of a doctor, psychiatrist, therapist, and nutritionist. Seeking professional help promptly is crucial due to the potential serious effects of binge eating disorder. Early intervention has proven to enhance treatment results.

Sources:
https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/learn/by-eating-disorder/bed