What is binge eating disorder?
BED is a serious mental health condition. It involves recurring episodes of rapid and excessive eating, often occurring when individuals are not hungry and continuing beyond the point of extreme fullness. Those dealing with this disorder may experience a loss of control during these episodes, finding it difficult to stop eating.
Those who struggle with BED can endure significant distress, followed by feelings of shame, guilt, and depression after episodes, which usually happen at least once a week for three months or longer. Unlike other eating disorders, individuals with BED typically do not engage in inappropriate or unhealthy weight control behaviors, such as fasting or purging, to counteract their binges.
Although recovery may seem daunting at present, it's important to acknowledge that complete recovery is possible and support is available. Our team of specialized professionals is uniquely qualified to collaborate with you and the treatment team, guiding you toward achieving full recovery.
How common is Binge Eating Disorder?
Approximately 3.5% of women, 2% of men, and 30% to 40% of individuals seeking weight loss treatments may receive a clinical diagnosis of BED. It is the most common eating disorder among U.S. adults, affecting three times as many individuals as those diagnosed with Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa combined.
It is the most prevalent eating disorder among adults in the United States. Increased accessibility of treatment, the overlap with other mental health conditions, and efforts to reduce stigma have all contributed to its higher prevalence compared to other eating disorders.
Recent “graduate” from Side by Side Nutrition. I started working with SBSN to figure out how food worked after having an eating disorder for years. And I’m so happy I got so much more than that! SBSN introduced me to Self-Compassion and met me with an approach that never included shaming me. I looked forward to our sessions every week, even if I hadn’t done any of my work, because I knew she’d be understanding and work with me to figure out what I needed to make it happen. And none of that compassion and presence was lost when we had to switch to telehealth. When I started, I didn’t think healing from an eating disorder was possible. And I never in my wildest dreams imagined that I’d come out of it with an unshakable love for my body (certainly not a plus size body with chronic illness)! I’m so glad circumstances sent me here because I know I wouldn’t have gotten to this place with my previous dietician! I am STRONG, I am CONFIDENT, and I am in LOVE with myself! Thank you so much for helping me on my journey here! It wasn’t easy, but it was so worth it!
— Michaela Myers