Binge Eating Disorder: Unpacking the Complexities | Golden Age

Binge eating disorder (BED) is a serious eating disorder characterized by recurring episodes of eating large quantities of food in a short period, often accompanied by feelings of guilt, shame, and loss of control. First recognized as a distinct condition in the 1950s by psychiatrist Albert Stunkard, BED was officially included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) in 2013. The condition affects approximately 2.8 million adults in the United States, with a higher prevalence among women. Treatment options include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT), and medication. Despite advancements, BED remains a stigmatized and misunderstood condition, with many individuals struggling to access effective care. As research continues to uncover the complexities of BED, it is essential to address the societal and cultural factors that contribute to its development and perpetuation, such as the normalization of disordered eating behaviors and the lack of diversity in eating disorder representation.