Binge eating disorder (BED)
Binge eating disorder (BED) shares some of the characteristics of bulimia but the essential difference is that a person binges uncontrollably but does not purge. It is believed that many more people suffer from binge eating disorder than either anorexia or bulimia nervosa. Because of the amount of food eaten, many people with BED become obese, this can lead to problems with blood pressure, heart disease and a general lack of fitness. The treatment for BED is in some ways similar to that for bulimia.
Signs of binge eating
- eating much more rapidly than usual
- eating until feeling uncomfortably full
- eating large amounts of food when not physically hungry
- eating alone because of embarrassment at the quantities of food consumed
- feeling out of control around food
- feeling very self conscious eating in front of others
- feeling ashamed, depressed or guilty after bingeing
- being unable to purge herself/himself or compensate for the food eaten.
Recovery
See treatment for more information on recovering from binge eating disorder.
Other eating disorders
More information
Based on information supplied by Eating Disorders Association.
Website: www.edauk.com. Helpline service: 0845 634 14.
