Binge Eating Disorder

How is Binge Eating Disorder diagnosed?

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (known as the DSM-V), is a widely used classification system for mental health disorders. Binge Eating Disorder is one of the disorders included in the DSM-V.

The diagnostic criteria for Binge Eating Disorder are as follows:

• Recurrent episodes of binge eating:
  • Binge eating is defined as consuming a quantity of food within a specific timeframe (e.g., within any 2-hour period) that significantly exceeds what the majority of individuals would typically eat in a comparable situation.
  • A sense of lack of control over eating during the episode, such as a feeling that one cannot stop eating or control what or how much one is eating.

• Binge eating episodes are associated with three (or more) of the following:
  • Eating more rapidly than normal.
  • Eating until feeling uncomfortably full.
  • Eating large amounts of food when not feeling physically hungry.
  • Eating alone because of feeling embarrassed by how much one is eating.
  • Feeling disgusted with oneself, depressed, or very guilty after overeating.

• Marked distress regarding binge eating is present.

• Binge eating occurs, on average, at least once a week for 3 months.

• The binge eating is not associated with the recurrent use of inappropriate compensatory behaviours (e.g., purging) and does not occur exclusively during the course of bulimia nervosa or anorexia nervosa.

Binge Eating Disorder and comorbidities

BED can have various comorbidities, which are other coexisting conditions that may impact the individual’s overall health and well-being.

Research suggests that 79% of people with Binge Eating Disorder deal with at least one psychiatric disorder, while 49% have a lifetime history of two or more comorbid conditions. These conditions include;

• Specific phobia
• Social phobia
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
• Alcohol-related concerns

Additional findings indicate that people with BED and one or more diagnoses often deal with;

• Anxiety disorders (65%)
• Mood disorders (46%)
• Impulse-control disorders (43%)
• Substance use disorders (23%)

The coexistence of these disorders clearly shows the complex nature of Binge Eating Disorder and its impact on a person’s mental health.

Is Binge Eating Disorder dangerous?

Binge Eating Disorder can have serious consequences on both mental and physical health. Here are some potential issues associated with BED:

Physical health problems

Physical health problems due to Binge Eating Disorder can include:

• Obesity: Binge eating often involves consuming large quantities of high-calorie, low-nutrient foods, leading to weight gain and potential obesity.
• Cardiovascular Issues: Obesity resulting from binge eating can contribute to heart disease, high blood pressure and other cardiovascular problems.
• Digestive Issues: Overeating can lead to digestive problems such as bloating, stomach pain and discomfort.
• Type 2 Diabetes: Obesity is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes and binge eating may contribute to the development or exacerbation of this condition.

Mental health issues

Some of the mental health issues that are associated with Binge Eating Disorder are:

• Depression: Binge eating and the associated feelings of guilt, shame and loss of control can contribute to or worsen depression.
• Anxiety: The cycle of binge eating, guilt and anxiety about food and body image can lead to heightened levels of anxiety.
• Low Self-Esteem: people with BED may experience a negative impact on self-esteem due to their struggle with overeating and potential weight gain.
• Isolation and Shame: Binge eating can lead to social withdrawal and feelings of shame, as people may try to hide their eating habits.

These potentially dangerous factors emphasise the importance of seeking professional help for this eating disorder.

How can I help a loved one who has Binge Eating Disorder?

Supporting a loved one with Binge Eating Disorder can be challenging, but it’s crucial to provide encouragement and support. Here are some suggestions:

• Educate yourself: Learn about Binge Eating Disorder, its symptoms and its causes. Understanding the condition will help you provide more informed support.
• Express concern with empathy: Choose a time when you can talk privately and express your concerns non-judgemental and caring. Use “I” statements to avoid sounding accusatory (e.g., “I’ve noticed you seem to be struggling with your eating, and I’m concerned about your well-being”).
• Encourage professional help: Suggest that they seek professional help from a therapist, counsellor, or a healthcare provider who specialises in eating disorders.
• Avoid negative comments: Refrain from making negative comments about their appearance, eating habits, or weight. Negative remarks can worsen feelings of shame and guilt, potentially exacerbating the binge eating behaviour. Tough love has to take the backseat in this situation.
• Encourage healthy eating habits: Support them in adopting a balanced and nutritious diet. Encourage regular, structured meals and snacks to help establish a more consistent eating pattern.
• Promote physical activity: Encourage them to engage in regular physical activity, focusing on the positive benefits for overall health rather than weight loss.
• Be patient: Recovery is a process, and it may take time. Be patient and supportive, recognising that setbacks can happen.
• Help identify triggers: Work together to identify triggers that contribute to binge eating episodes. Understanding these triggers can be crucial for managing and preventing future episodes.

Keep in mind that although your support is meaningful, seeking professional assistance is crucial for addressing Binge Eating Disorder. Encourage your loved one to connect with a healthcare professional capable of offering tailored guidance and support. Living with Binge Eating Disorder should not be the only option for either you or your loved one.