Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is a type of eating disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of eating large quantities of food in a short period of time, often to the point of discomfort or pain, and a feeling of loss of control during these episodes.


People with BED may eat when they are not hungry or may continue eating even when they are full. They may feel guilty, ashamed, or depressed after binge eating. Unlike other eating disorders like anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa, people with BED do not engage in compensatory behaviors like purging or excessive exercise to offset the binge eating.


BED can lead to significant physical and psychological health problems, including obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, depression, and anxiety. Treatment for BED typically includes therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and sometimes medication.


There are several therapies available for binge eating disorder (BED), including:

  1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a talk therapy that focuses on changing the negative thoughts and behaviors that lead to binge eating. It teaches individuals to recognize triggers that may lead to binging and develop healthier coping strategies.
  2. Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): IPT is a therapy that focuses on improving relationships and communication skills. It can help individuals with BED address issues that may be contributing to their binge eating, such as interpersonal conflicts or difficulties with social support.
  3. Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT): DBT is a form of CBT that emphasizes mindfulness and emotional regulation. It can help individuals with BED learn to manage their emotions and impulses in a more effective way, reducing the urge to binge.
  4. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): ACT is a type of therapy that focuses on accepting uncomfortable thoughts and feelings and taking action towards values-based goals. It can help individuals with BED develop a more positive relationship with food and their bodies.
  5. Family-Based Treatment (FBT): FBT involves the individual with BED and their family members in therapy sessions. It can help improve family dynamics and communication, which may contribute to the individual's binge eating behavior.