Binge Eating Disorder

Binge eating disorder means having frequent episodes of eating large amounts of food in a short time with a feeling of losing control. It is the most common eating disorder and is treatable.

BED is characterised by recurrent binge episodes (≥1/week for 3 months) with marked distress and absence of compensatory behaviours. DSM-5 criteria require ≥3 associated features (eating rapidly, eating until uncomfortably full, eating when not hungry, eating alone due to embarrassment, feeling disgusted/depressed/guilty).

BED affects 2-3% of the general population and up to 30% of those seeking weight loss treatment. Medical weight management programmes should screen for BED.