Binge Eating Disorder Flashcards, test questions and answers

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What is Binge Eating Disorder?

Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is an eating disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of uncontrollable, compulsive eating. It is different from overeating due to its lack of control and the associated guilt, shame, and distress that can come with it. People with BED will frequently eat large amounts of food in a short period of time, even when they are not physically hungry or do not need additional calories for energy. This type of disordered eating can lead to serious physical and psychological health complications if left untreated. BED usually occurs in adulthood but may start as early as childhood or adolescence. Risk factors include being female, having a family history of binge eating disorder, having depression or anxiety disorders, being overweight or obese, dieting frequently and/or engaging in unhealthy weight management behaviors such as purging after meals or skipping them altogether. It is important to note that despite common misconceptions about the disorder being triggered by obesity alonebinge eating disorder is an independent mental health condition unrelated to weight status. The symptoms of BED can vary from person-to-person but typically involve recurrent episodes of out-of-control overeating without any attempts at purging (such as vomiting). Common warning signs include eating large amounts of food quickly even when not hungry; feeling guilty or ashamed afterward; feeling a lack of control over one’s behavior; regularly hiding food consumption; storing large amounts of food for later binges; avoiding social activities related to food due to shame; lying about how much one has eaten.