Beyond Appetite: Decoding Binge Eating Disorder vs. Overeating

This blog post offers a thoughtful and informative discussion on the prevalence of binge eating disorder (BED), its difference from overeating, and the importance of this topic within the broader context of mental health and well-being. In the realm of mental health and eating behaviors, understanding the distinction between binge eating disorder and overeating is crucial. We’ll delve into the research that sheds light on the prevalence of BED, a recognized eating disorder that affects millions worldwide. Recent studies and meta-analyses underscore the importance of recognizing and addressing BED and aim to better grasp its impact within our communities.

 Often people confuse binge eating and overeating. Understanding these differences can shed light on the complexities of these conditions and how they impact individuals.

Binge Eating Disorder (BED)

BED is a recognized eating disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of eating large quantities of food rapidly and to the point of discomfort, often in a short period and not necessarily in response to hunger. People with BED feel a loss of control during these episodes and experience distress, guilt, or shame afterward. Importantly, binge episodes are typically accompanied by a sense of inability to stop or control the eating behavior.

Key features of BED include:

1. Loss of Control: Individuals with BED feel like they can't stop eating during a binge episode, even if they want to.

2. Emotional Distress: There's often emotional distress before, during, or after a binge eating episode, which can include feelings of guilt, shame, or embarrassment.

3. Frequency: Binge episodes occur at least once a week for three months or longer.

4. Absence of Compensatory Behaviors: Unlike bulimia nervosa, people with BED do not engage in compensatory behaviors (e.g. behaviors to offset the binge) following a binge episode.

Overeating

Overeating, on the other hand, refers to consuming more food than your body needs at a given time. It can occur for various reasons, such as celebration, social gatherings, or simply because the food is available and tempting. Overeating may not involve the loss of control seen in binge eating disorder, nor does it necessarily lead to the same level of distress or guilt.

Key features of overeating include:

1. Lack of Loss of Control: While overeating may involve consuming large amounts of food, it's typically done without the feeling of being unable to stop.

2. Contextual: Overeating can be situational and may not be a regular pattern. It can occur occasionally during holidays, parties, or stressful periods.

3. Less Emotional Distress: Overeating may not be accompanied by significant emotional distress or feelings of guilt or shame.

Subjective Binge Eating

Let’s add one more term to the mix. Subjective binge eating can exhibit the same psychological distress associated with objective binge eating (i.e. binges that occur within BED), such as loss of control and intense feelings of guilt and shame. The difference is the amount of food consumed or the frequency of these episodes. Individuals who tend to control their eating or hold rules about foods allowed in their diet are more prone to experiencing subjective binges.

Key features of subjective binge eating include:

1. Loss of Control: Similar to objective binge eating, subjective binge eating is also characterized by a loss of control.

2. Contextual: Individuals typically eat a normal quantities and types of food with subjective binge eating. However, they often hold strict rules about food and binges occur when those rules are broken. For example, a person may have a rule to abstain from gluten, and they feel like they’ve binged when they ate a bagel.

3. Emotional Distress: There's often emotional distress before, during, or after a subjective binge eating episode, which can include feelings of guilt, shame, or anger with oneself.

Understanding the Difference

It's crucial to differentiate between binge eating disorder, subjective binge eating, and overeating because they have distinct implications for mental and physical health. Binge eating disorder is a serious mental health condition that can lead to significant distress, impaired functioning, and health complications. When a person engages in subjective binge eating, it may also be an indication that an eating disorder is present. More often than not, subjective binge eating points to Anorexia Nervosa or Orthorexia. Eating disorders often require professional intervention and treatment, such as psychotherapy, nutrition counseling, and sometimes medication. 

Overeating, while not classified as an eating disorder, can still contribute to weight gain and related health issues if it becomes a habitual behavior. However, occasional overeating does not necessarily indicate a deeper psychological issue.

Highlighting research articles on the prevalence of binge eating disorder (BED) can provide valuable insights into the scope and impact of this eating disorder. Here are some relevant studies that shed light on the prevalence of BED:

A meta-analysis, published in Eating and Weight Disorders - Studies on Anorexia, Bulimia and Obesity in 2020, examined the prevalence of BED across different populations. The study found that the overall global prevalence of BED was estimated to be around 1.4%, with higher rates observed in specific populations such as individuals seeking weight loss treatment and those in larger bodies. Furthermore, a study published in Eating Behaviors in 2009 explored the prevalence and correlates of binge eating behavior in a community sample. The research found that binge eating, including subthreshold BED, is common in the general population, affecting approximately 2.6% to 4.8% of individuals.

These research articles collectively emphasize the significance of binge eating disorder as a prevalent and impactful mental health condition. They highlight the importance of early detection, intervention, and increased awareness of BED within both clinical and community settings. Understanding the epidemiology of BED can inform public health strategies and improve access to appropriate treatment and support services for individuals affected by this disorder.

Seeking Help

If you or someone you know is struggling with binge eating behaviors or other disordered eating patterns, it's important to seek help from a qualified healthcare professional, such as a therapist specializing in eating disorders or a registered dietitian. Understanding the nuances between binge eating disorder and overeating is essential for promoting awareness, reducing stigma, and providing appropriate support and treatment to those in need. Let's continue to foster empathy and understanding around these complex issues to better support individuals on their journey toward healing and recovery.

 If you are seeking eating disorder treatment or mental health therapy for you or your adolescent, Cypress Wellness Collective can help. Cypress Wellness Collective is located in the San Francisco Bay Area where they specialize in Family Based Treatment (FBT), therapy, and nutrition counseling for teens, adults, and families going through eating disorder recovery. They offer in person and virtual appointments throughout all of California. Call today for your free consultation to see if Cypress Wellness Collective is right for you!

References:

1. Kessler, R. C., Berglund, P. A., Chiu, W. T., Deitz, A. C., Hudson, J. I., Shahly, V., ... & Bruffaerts, R. (2013). The prevalence and correlates of binge eating disorder in the World Health Organization World Mental Health Surveys. Biological Psychiatry, 73(9), 904-914.

2. Udo, T., & Grilo, C. M. (2018). Prevalence of binge eating disorder in different populations: a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies. Eating and Weight Disorders - Studies on Anorexia, Bulimia and Obesity, 23(3), 311-329.

3. Hudson, J. I., Hiripi, E., Pope Jr, H. G., & Kessler, R. C. (2007). The prevalence and correlates of eating disorders in the National Comorbidity Survey Replication. Biological Psychiatry, 61(3), 348-358.

4. Striegel-Moore, R. H., & Franko, D. L. (2008). Should binge eating disorder be included in the DSM-V? A critical review of the state of the evidence. Annual Review of Clinical Psychology, 4, 305-324.