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Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is
a frequent eating disorder characterised by recurring bouts of eating a
significant amount of food in a short period of time while feeling a loss of
control. Episodes occur at least once a week for three months and are not
followed by regular compensatory behaviours (like purging), which are evident
in bulimia. BED is associated with discomfort, weight gain, metabolic
problems, and poor quality of life. Psychological causes include
difficulty in controlling emotions, guilt, and negative body image; biological
factors include genetic susceptibility, appetite-regulatory hormones, and
altered reward pathways. Diagnosis is based on a detailed clinical history and
screening measures such as the Binge Eating Scale; screen for comorbid
depression, anxiety, and substance use.
The first line of treatment
is a combination of evidence-based psychotherapy, primarily cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT), along
with guided self-help and dietary rehabilitation. Some people discover that
medication, such as lisdexamfetamine (when approved) or selective
serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), helps them to cut down the number of
binges they have. Multidisciplinary care by psychiatrists, clinical
psychologists, dietitians, and primary care providers enhances outcomes. Recovery and
long-term wellness need early diagnosis, non-judgmental assistance, and relapse
prevention methods (regular eating patterns and trigger management).