What is binge eating disorder?

What is binge eating disorder?

Sometimes referred to as compulsive overeating, this condition is thought to be the most common eating disorder. It is estimated to affect about 3 percent of all adults in the United States (up to 4 million people). Binge eating is a little more common in women than in men; three women for every two men have it. Occasional overeating is normal, and not all people who overeat have a binge eating disorder. Binge eating is described as:

• The consumption of large amounts of food in a limited period of time, such as a two-hour time frame
• Feelings of loss of control and marked distress over eating behavior
• Eating large amounts of food without being hungry
• Eating until feeling uncomfortably full
• Feelings of disgust, depression, and guilt after overeating
• Eating alone or in secret out of embarrassment at the quantity of food being eaten
• Behavior that usually occurs at least 1 day a week for at least 3 months.

Binge eating disorder does not involve purging (forced vomiting).

If you think you have binge eating disorder, it is important to know that you are not alone. Most people who have this disorder have tried to control it themselves for years without success. Talk to your healthcare provider about the type of help that may be best for you.