Binge-Eating Disorder (BED)

Definition

Recurrent episodes of binge eating without compensatory behaviors (no purging, fasting, or excessive exercise).

DSM-5-TR Criteria:

• Recurrent binge eating (≥ once/week for ≥ 3 months)

• 3 or more of the following:

  1. Eating rapidly

  2. Eating until uncomfortably full

  3. Eating large amounts when not hungry

  4. Eating alone due to embarrassment

  5. Feeling disgusted, depressed, or guilty afterward

• Marked distress over bingeing

• Not associated with regular compensatory behavior

Distinguishing Features:

• Overweight or obese common

• More even gender ratio (2:1 female to male)

• Later onset (adulthood more common)

Prevalence:

Lifetime prevalence: ~2.8% females, 1% males

Psychological Features:

• Similar to bulimia but without purging

• Often co-occurs with anxiety, depression, and poor body image